Napkin Finance

November 1, 2019
Written by a Harvard MBA, this print version of the material found on the Napkin Finance website is designed for readers seeking a broad introduction to the topic. Financial concepts are explained with a combination of napkins (cleverly illustrated single pages) and supporting information in the form of tables and bulleted lists. Topics are explored in a logical order in twelve chapters, starting with Money 101, which encompasses basic concepts such as savings, debt, interest, and insurance. The remaining chapters range from everyday concerns (credit cards, Social Security, and tax returns) to more sophisticated issues (cryptocurrency, blockchain, and hedge funds). Each chapter concludes with a multiple-choice quiz. Material is presented in a clear, concise, and visually appealing way. The book will be most useful to readers who feel that they lack even the most basic financial literacy, as topics are covered in very general terms. In addition, younger readers may prefer to view the material online, where short videos are also available. Overall, a nice introduction to basic finance that may leave readers wanting more information.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)

July 1, 2019

Struggling at Harvard Business School with terminology and numbers-laden concepts that fellow students with a banking background breezed through, Hay devised a visual learning strategy using sketches and infographics that helped her conquer all. Then she founded the multimedia company Napkin Finance to help anyone understand essential concepts of money without fear or glazed eyes. Michelle Obama's Better Make Room campaign is among her clients. Including 60 learning modules in a seven-inch square format, with each module including a four-color Napkin (hmm, that's new) plus explanations and visual elements; a 75,000 copy first printing.

Copyright 2019 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 6, 2019

While working toward her MBA at Harvard Business School, Hay began sketching quick explanations of financial concepts. These illustrations were small and simple enough to fit on a cocktail napkin and eventually became the basis of the Napkin Finance website, where readers can learn "everything about money in 30 seconds or less." Hay's project now arrives in this bite-sized guide tackling financial topics such as investing, budgeting, loans, credit, and taxes in an easily digestible format. Beyond the basics, the book highlights voodoo economics and cryptocurrency, assisting readers in better understanding current issues and headlines. Interspersed throughout are self-check quizzes, eye-catching drawings, and witty quotes. VERDICT Perfect for financial novices and students--the unique compact format and simple sketches make even the most complex financial concepts both easy to read and understand.--Jennifer Clifton, Indiana State Lib., Indianapolis

Copyright 2019 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.