cover image The Die Broke Complete Book of Money: Unconventional Wisdom about Everything from Annuities to Zero-Coupon Bonds

The Die Broke Complete Book of Money: Unconventional Wisdom about Everything from Annuities to Zero-Coupon Bonds

Stephen M. Pollan. HarperCollins Publishers, $29.95 (575pp) ISBN 978-0-06-661993-4

This comprehensive reference from the authors of the bestselling Die Broke and Live Rich covers every imaginable topic from living wills and insurance to mentoring. While much of the advice is sound and helpful, the book covers so much ground that it may prove daunting to readers. In addition to specific subjects related to money, such as debt, real estate and investing, there's also a great deal of advice on career issues, including buying a franchise, selecting office equipment, hiring temporary help and more. There's even help on such specialized subjects as budgeting for garden and pet care. The most useful sections are the advice boxesDincluding ""secrets of dealing with cranky creditors,"" ""saving money on moves"" and ""learning the lingo,"" which defines college aid financial terms. Here, readers are given concrete steps they can act on. However, with so many other sources of helpDboth online and offDmost people would be better served by a book offering more focused, detailed advice on specific topics rather than the brief summaries here. (Jan.) Forecast: Given the success of Die Broke as well as the extensive 25-city public radio campaign, online promotion and other publicity planned for the authors, this is likely to sell briskly initially, especially at larger chains.