Quarter Finalist
Assessment:
Idea: Although this book includes much information that is readily available, it does so in an accessible and easy-to-understand way--and the material is delivered consistently in the voice of the author. His message is that the rules of financial independence are "simple but not easy."
Prose: At all times, the author's voice makes this book fresh and personable. Readers feel as if they are learning from a friend who makes complicated concepts easy to understand.
Originality: Others have written similar books, but this one stands out because of its simplicity and its strong voice. The reading suggestions at the end of chapters and the quotes from experts like Buffett are also helpful.
Character/Execution: In a market of prescriptive nonfiction finance books, Wealth Your Way stands out because of its wise, accessible voice, its graphics, and its well-edited prose. The author gives insights that surpass the usual rules, including how to go beyond the usual concept of compounding to achieve maximum investment power.
Date Submitted: October 01, 2022
Retired CPA DeStefano’s debut guide is a sound investment of time, energy, and money in investment education. DeStefano plots “Life’s Complete Financial Arc,” from calculating how much to invest when building a portfolio to how to withdraw investments. He outlines the “PCR” method for investing–“Plan, Course-Correct, Repeat”–and argues that by repeating these three steps over the course of a lifetime, one may achieve “financial independence…so that all your future financial needs can be paid for from your FI Portfolio without needing…to earn a salary.” Making the case and showing his work, DeStefano walks through the why, what, and how, offering readers the tools to decide for themselves what investments match their own goals and values. DeStefano writes for a general audience of any age unfamiliar with (or needing a refresher on) investment terminology and strategy. In a genre where authors tend to patronize, overwhelm, or over-promise, DeStefano hits a sweet spot: he provides substantive information in a light and accessible tone. At times, he references pop culture icons like Yogi Berra and Wally from the Dilbert comic strip to add color and humor to the material. Famous quotes and personal asides are scattered throughout, and the eye-catching layout will hold reader attention. Illustrations, charts, and graphs are clear and helpful in explaining difficult concepts with concision. DeStefano provides reading recommendations at the end of each chapter to encourage continuing education.
DeStefano does not tell the reader what to do, but instead informs them of options and potential pitfalls that come with investing so that new investors may make their own decisions. Drawing on examples like the Electronics Boom in the 1950s and the Dot-com Bubble in the 1990s, DeStefano illuminates how the investment industry has changed since its inception, and how new investors may avoid risky or fad investments. This unbiased, practical approach offers a clear-eyed introduction for any prospective investor.
Takeaway: A comprehensive guide for all ages on how to invest and achieve financial independence.
Great for fans of: Bola Sokunbi’s Clever Girl Finance: Learn How Investing Works, Grow Your Money, John C. Bogle’s The Little Book of Common Sense Investing: The Only Way to Guarantee Your Fair Share of Market Returns.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
