Talking Money

January 1, 2001
A Today Show contributor and editor for Money magazine, Chatzky walks amateurs through basic decisions like choosing a mortgage, investing for retirement or college, and buying insurance, all in a conversational tone. Some advice is boilerplate (e.g., "When you invest your money, do it in a way that minimizes your tax rate"), but her case studies, clear overviews of financial options and practical tips make it all go down easily. Chatzky's high profile on TV and her five-city author tour and radio satellite tour should quickly land this one on bestseller lists.

January 1, 2001
Chatzky regularly appears on NBC's "Today" show, writes a column for "Money "magazine, and is the author of "The Rich and Famous Money "Book: Investment Strategies of Leading Celebrities (1997). Her book targets those who want to take control of their finances but do not know how or where to begin. The key, says Chatzky, is to be able to talk about one's financial situation, and she helps get the conversation rolling. She "talks" about setting goals, handling or avoiding debt, saving, investing safely, investing for retirement and for education, insurance, estate planning, real estate, and spending. She also encourages discussions with financial planners and counselors and with one's family and friends. Chatzky poses sets of questions throughout to help stimulate the dialogue. (Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2001, American Library Association.)