Ron Blue

Ron Blue provides an excellent introduction to estate planning. Ron highlights common issues and questions, but more importantly, provides a logical framework for considering the decisions. Written from the perspective of Christian faith. I consider Ron a friend, and while I don't agree with his conclusions at every point, I think this is an extremely valuable book.

If there ever seemed a time to read Surviving Financial Meltdown, I figured now is the time. Unemployment rises and many of us are kind of waiting for the next shoe to drop. What you need to keep focused on though is a few basic principles which Ron Blue and Jeremy White share in this book.

One of the things I like is that it is not a long and drawn out book. I really feel that most peoplpe who are having some financial concerns who do want to make some changes are probably going to be show more better served by this short common sense approach rather than get bogged down by a 300 page gargantua. The authors use common sense (okay common to some) and scripture. It is a friendly read that will inform and educate. I found the chapter on investments and investing very helpful. My husband and I can save, save, save, but we really need guidance when it comes to investing.

Lastly, the 40 money saving tips at the end were a thrill for me to read. I was reminded of a few things that I hadn't thought of in a while and will want to share with others.

This was an enjoyable read that I do think will help others. Someone who is ahead of the game probably will not get many "aha" moments, but they certainly may want to get it to share with someone who could really use a simple approach. show less

The point of the system is to teach your children to manage money, not to make them responsible for everything they have to purchase

Perfect for : Personal Use, Possible book for study group

In a nutshell: A great tool for individuals, families and businesses to use to help assess their current financial footing, and to put things into place to help prepare for uncertain times. The authors have created four general principles to follow to ensure your future stability, and have provided a six step plan to help you get to the point that you will be financially healthy. The book includes biblical perspectives and passages, show more and includes workbook type pages to help you work through some sections of the book. One thing I really appreciate is that this book is very current, examples from today's headlines, and information that pertains to what we are facing NOW.

Extended Review:
Content: From the table of contents, there are 9 chapters, and then end materials. The chapters are: 1. Riding Out the Economic Storm, 2. This Economy is Unique, Just Like Every Other One Before It, 3. No Sense Being Pessimistic - It Wouldn't Work Anyway!, 4. This Isn't Going to Hurt a Bit (Step 1), 5. Aim at Nothing and You'll Hit it Every Time (Step 2), 6. I'm Stuck in a Traffic Jam on the Road To Riches (Step 3), 7. I'm Having an Out-of-Money Experience (Step 4), 8. I'm Being Eaten by the Borrow Constrictor (Step 5), 9. Honey, I've Shrunk Our Portfolio! (Step 6)

Format: Easy to read with great call-out boxes that include extra information, facts, sites to visit, etc. One that particularly popped out at me was what to do in case your bank faces failure - this information would have really helped people who recently panicked over the buy-out of Washington Mutual. There are also some workbook type sections throughout the book where you can write down information and help make decisions.

Readability: The authors have written a financial book that is easy to read and understand - no need for an encyclopedia or dictionary!

Overall: This is a great book that will help you figure out what you need to do next to become more financially and economically healthy. The Appendix contains a wonderful list of 40 Money-Saving Tips, and I love them all! They are do-able and I believe they will help you achieve your goal, and once there, will help you use your money better. show less