I bought this book used at the advice of a well-meaning family member. I can only hope the "update and revised" editions are better. To be completely honest, I began to skim the text after the author displayed a fairly fundamental misunderstanding of the banking system and used "intellectual" and "academic" as insults. The "folksy" tone and constant use of Bible verses was also off-putting.

This book has very little to offer anyone who is using their credit responsibly and are not already drowning in debt. The behavioral changes he recommends are likely very helpful for those who have irresponsibly over extended themselves already. A large portion of his advice seems like good advice; however, it doesn't really extend beyond common sense.

Perhaps my biggest complaint is simply a nit pick. The author translates the "college experience" into "they want to party" when discussing why there is no reason to not work during college. Since the author uses "intellectual" as an insult, I guess I shouldn't expect him to understand the many intellectual benefits of not having to work during college. I worked during my 3rd and 4th years; however, I worked far fewer hours than he seems to be suggesting. Not working during college gives one the ability to go to interesting lectures and seminars taking place in other departments, grapple with difficult material, read books and articles outside the required material, and attend art and cultural events. Obviously, not working (or working only a few hours) is not an option for everyone, but there are benefits to the "college experience" that were well worth taking on a bit of debt for. To claim that the "college experience" only consists of "partying" seems to underscore the author's singular focus on a portion of the population with severely misaligned priorities.

Perhaps I was simply hoping for a book that would go over the nuts and bolts of creating wealth. ( )

Presents a plan for completely making over personal money habits. Includes success stories.

First time I read this book, I was able to get debt free in 3.8years. Looking at it again to get back on track before I go to far afield. ( )

Wanna get out of debt? Dave Ramsey has a proven method- just follow his steps and you will be able to save yourself from lots of heartache. Dave also includes testimonials from families who have used his methods to get out of debt. ( )

Here is a book that provides you with a life plan that is easy to understand AND implement. You are required to follow a plan that gets you out of debt, build an emergency fund, plan for the future, and build wealth.

This is not a get rich quick scheme, but a build wealth scheme over time. For those will to follow Dave's principles, you are encourage to cut up and close you credit cards, live on cash. Debit cards are fine to use as well. For many, this will seem foreign or impossible. For those that take the journey, you will be rewarded.

This book belongs on everyone's book shelf right along side the Millionaire Next Door! ( )