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Kicking Financial Ass
Why wait until 65 to retire when you can start doing what you really want when you are in the prime of your life? Whether your dream is to start your own business, volunteer, or work less, Chris Dumont provides a blueprint to early retirement and the best advice on the stock market to gain control of your finances today.
After reading this
• You will learn how Chris went from being over $50,000 in debt to being debt-free, owning multiples properties, and a six-figure stock portfolio within four years.
• You will be more financially secure. Chris shows you how to pay off all your debts. Once you are debt-free, you can hit your savings goals.
• You will create a budget using an easy-to use-system, with savings and expenses automatically deducted.
• You will not spend hours managing your money. Once you set things up, managing your money will be so simple that you only focus on it once a month.
You will also
• Being happier with less by spending on what makes you happy.
• How much money you need to retire. ( It’s not as much as you think!)
• Car advice on whether you should lease, own, or buy.
• Negotiating salaries and raises and incorporate side hustles to increase your income.
• Common investing mistakes to avoid and easy-to-understand index funds with ETFs.
• Tax-advantaged accounts you should use and why for both Americans and Canadians.
• Real estate advice and whether you should rent or own.
• And much more!
Everything he shows you is…
SET – AND – FORGET
You are covered by your emergency fund when you need it, from accidents to losing your job.
Start using the concepts he teaches in this book and retire in comfort in as few as 10 years.
Once retired, learn how to stay active and accomplish what you have always wanted.
What are you waiting for? Take control of your future today!
After reading this
• You will learn how Chris went from being over $50,000 in debt to being debt-free, owning multiples properties, and a six-figure stock portfolio within four years.
• You will be more financially secure. Chris shows you how to pay off all your debts. Once you are debt-free, you can hit your savings goals.
• You will create a budget using an easy-to use-system, with savings and expenses automatically deducted.
• You will not spend hours managing your money. Once you set things up, managing your money will be so simple that you only focus on it once a month.
You will also
• Being happier with less by spending on what makes you happy.
• How much money you need to retire. ( It’s not as much as you think!)
• Car advice on whether you should lease, own, or buy.
• Negotiating salaries and raises and incorporate side hustles to increase your income.
• Common investing mistakes to avoid and easy-to-understand index funds with ETFs.
• Tax-advantaged accounts you should use and why for both Americans and Canadians.
• Real estate advice and whether you should rent or own.
• And much more!
Everything he shows you is…
SET – AND – FORGET
You are covered by your emergency fund when you need it, from accidents to losing your job.
Start using the concepts he teaches in this book and retire in comfort in as few as 10 years.
Once retired, learn how to stay active and accomplish what you have always wanted.
What are you waiting for? Take control of your future today!
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2019
8 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 5, 2019
While there are helpful tidbits for people at every stage of life (including those already retired) this is geared more to those in their 20's.
There were a lot of websites included that can be great for getting started on a successful journey to retirement, as well as ones to help you make your finances a bit more well rounded in the here and now.
The thing I found most disheartening was that this was obviously more for people who make well above minimum wage. People who make minimum wage are likely the ones who need the most help in setting up for retirement and won't get as much help out of this as someone making $50k+ per year.
Thank you NetGalley and Paul Christopher Dumont for my DRC.
There were a lot of websites included that can be great for getting started on a successful journey to retirement, as well as ones to help you make your finances a bit more well rounded in the here and now.
The thing I found most disheartening was that this was obviously more for people who make well above minimum wage. People who make minimum wage are likely the ones who need the most help in setting up for retirement and won't get as much help out of this as someone making $50k+ per year.
Thank you NetGalley and Paul Christopher Dumont for my DRC.
December 15, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book would be great for high school aged kids or young adults in their early 20s. It provides a lot of practical advice for young people to get their finances on the right track.
This book would be great for high school aged kids or young adults in their early 20s. It provides a lot of practical advice for young people to get their finances on the right track.
November 18, 2019
Trying to keep your financial house in order is one of life's more daunting tasks yet ever so necessary. Kicking Financial Ass is a guide to help you do just that. Paul Christopher Dumont takes you through many of the various aspects of finances one must tackle from early in life through retirement as well as a way to psychologically look at how you look at finances and what you need to make you happy.
Personally, I found this book to be a mixed bag of advice. Some very good while I found a few things not all that accurate or maybe forced to fit an outcome. Like so many other books on personal finance, it tended to lean towards being way too cookie cutter by totally ignoring so many other demographics and factors that exist in real life that just did not fit any of these guidelines. Some of the numbers were also way off. All too often, I found myself trying to fit a round peg into a square hole. Good advice for the square pegs but impossible for the round ones.
Early on in the book, Dumont mentioned that his intended audience was for millennials. After reading the book, it really is best marketed to millennials as much of it didn't do a whole lot to be all that helpful for anyone older though could help those younger. That's all fine and good but I feel that there should be some notation of that on the cover.
The book is not an one size fits all guide by any means but still contains some basic understanding that is very useful. Rather than nitpick on specifics, I think it's best to do what financial advisers always suggest (which, oddly wasn't mentioned in the book) and to diversify. In other words, diversify your financial reading material and hone it all down to what suits your own personal life circumstances. Also understand that what might work today in Dumont's suggestions may not work at all in the future. Extract what you can from the book to help set you off onto the road of personal finances but keep learning and paying attention to any changes and warnings along the way.
Thanks to NetGalley for a free copy of the book for a fair and honest review.
Personally, I found this book to be a mixed bag of advice. Some very good while I found a few things not all that accurate or maybe forced to fit an outcome. Like so many other books on personal finance, it tended to lean towards being way too cookie cutter by totally ignoring so many other demographics and factors that exist in real life that just did not fit any of these guidelines. Some of the numbers were also way off. All too often, I found myself trying to fit a round peg into a square hole. Good advice for the square pegs but impossible for the round ones.
Early on in the book, Dumont mentioned that his intended audience was for millennials. After reading the book, it really is best marketed to millennials as much of it didn't do a whole lot to be all that helpful for anyone older though could help those younger. That's all fine and good but I feel that there should be some notation of that on the cover.
The book is not an one size fits all guide by any means but still contains some basic understanding that is very useful. Rather than nitpick on specifics, I think it's best to do what financial advisers always suggest (which, oddly wasn't mentioned in the book) and to diversify. In other words, diversify your financial reading material and hone it all down to what suits your own personal life circumstances. Also understand that what might work today in Dumont's suggestions may not work at all in the future. Extract what you can from the book to help set you off onto the road of personal finances but keep learning and paying attention to any changes and warnings along the way.
Thanks to NetGalley for a free copy of the book for a fair and honest review.
December 4, 2019
Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Excellent book on how to become financial successful through debt free methods, saving for retirement, emergency funds and more! The author references many of Dave Ramsey methods and improves on them. I'm definitely getting a copy for myself and family. Very easy to follow with resources to help you land on the right track.
Excellent book on how to become financial successful through debt free methods, saving for retirement, emergency funds and more! The author references many of Dave Ramsey methods and improves on them. I'm definitely getting a copy for myself and family. Very easy to follow with resources to help you land on the right track.
September 14, 2019
Surprisingly Helpful Book
I think it is unfortunate when an author or a publisher believes that they have to oversell a book. This book is a victim of just such a stratagem. This is actually quite a detailed, well-thought-out, and well-written book about how to get your financial house in order. So I have issues with the title, subtitle, and book blurb. The title suggests a humorous or edgy approach, and the subtitle—as it begins with a rather strange directive—supports this theory as well. The book blurb makes you think that it is going to be more about retiring early or entrepreneurship. While the book does address the former, that isn't really the main thrust of the book. The book is really about getting your financial house in order and aligning what you do financially with your own personal values so that you can live a better present and future.
This book is meant for millennials, but I believe that most people could find benefit from it even if everything doesn't apply to you, because of your age group or for any reason. The book is broadly divided into four parts: foundations, growth, investing, and living your life. The first part begins with getting your money mindset correct by considering your approach two money. This part moves on to take a look at where your money is going and looking at your savings. Then he looks into having an emergency fund before diving into debts. In the growth section, he discusses a salary negotiation and having a side hustle. In the investing section, he looks at index funds, retirement accounts, and real estate. The final two chapters that make up part four step more into the mindset perspective, looking at purpose in retirement and happiness with your financial goals.
This book is chock full of ideas and things for you to think about in your approach to your finances both now and in the future. The author freely admits that most of these ideas are not his own. He does have an MBA and is a certified financial analyst, but he also states that he has gathered information from various places online. Honestly, there is much that will help people here, both in mindset and in practicalities. It will get you thinking about what you do with your money now, what you want to do with it in the future, and why you want (or shouldn’t want) to do all these things. If you want financial freedom now and years from now, I would recommend reading this book—whether you are a millennial or not.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
I think it is unfortunate when an author or a publisher believes that they have to oversell a book. This book is a victim of just such a stratagem. This is actually quite a detailed, well-thought-out, and well-written book about how to get your financial house in order. So I have issues with the title, subtitle, and book blurb. The title suggests a humorous or edgy approach, and the subtitle—as it begins with a rather strange directive—supports this theory as well. The book blurb makes you think that it is going to be more about retiring early or entrepreneurship. While the book does address the former, that isn't really the main thrust of the book. The book is really about getting your financial house in order and aligning what you do financially with your own personal values so that you can live a better present and future.
This book is meant for millennials, but I believe that most people could find benefit from it even if everything doesn't apply to you, because of your age group or for any reason. The book is broadly divided into four parts: foundations, growth, investing, and living your life. The first part begins with getting your money mindset correct by considering your approach two money. This part moves on to take a look at where your money is going and looking at your savings. Then he looks into having an emergency fund before diving into debts. In the growth section, he discusses a salary negotiation and having a side hustle. In the investing section, he looks at index funds, retirement accounts, and real estate. The final two chapters that make up part four step more into the mindset perspective, looking at purpose in retirement and happiness with your financial goals.
This book is chock full of ideas and things for you to think about in your approach to your finances both now and in the future. The author freely admits that most of these ideas are not his own. He does have an MBA and is a certified financial analyst, but he also states that he has gathered information from various places online. Honestly, there is much that will help people here, both in mindset and in practicalities. It will get you thinking about what you do with your money now, what you want to do with it in the future, and why you want (or shouldn’t want) to do all these things. If you want financial freedom now and years from now, I would recommend reading this book—whether you are a millennial or not.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
August 29, 2019
Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Dumont is easy to understand finances for reaching finance independence. I found the book included a lot of information in an easy to digest format. The book is divided into four parts: Foundations, Growth, Investing, and Living your Life. Most of the books on finance or retiring I've read focus on foundations and investing but leave our growth and living your life after retirement. Having these two additions made this more of a book about early retirement. Within each part the book had chapters that covered topics from getting your finances in order (out of debt), knowing how much you need to retire, growing your income and keeping expenses minimal, investing in index funds, and then realizing that after you retire you will need to create a life outside of work for yourself. If you are looking for a book with all of the basics on financial independence I would recommend this book. It doesn't go into great detail, but it is easy to understand and provides the tools you need to start done the path to financial independence.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2019
Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Dumont seems like it is targeted toward millennial generation but really is an appropriate book on how to handle your finances. It is not a get rich scheme on how to shed everything and get rich enough to retire quick. Instead, it is a no nonsense, easy to understand approach to managing your finances including investment advice on Canadian retirement, real estate as an investment, side hustles, negotiating your salary, and basic finances. I love that he encourages having an emergency fund first before paying off debt! That is terrific advice.
Toward the beginning of the book, Dumont lists that there is a financial spectrum and that our goal is to reach the top of the spectrum. It is interesting as a reader to find out where I am at and where I want to be.
Overall this has been a great read, one I will definitely share with others as it has so much information set in front of the reader. Kicking Financial Ass presents great, solid information about the skills that should be taught in high school in order to graduate. Well done!
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinions are my own.
Toward the beginning of the book, Dumont lists that there is a financial spectrum and that our goal is to reach the top of the spectrum. It is interesting as a reader to find out where I am at and where I want to be.
Overall this has been a great read, one I will definitely share with others as it has so much information set in front of the reader. Kicking Financial Ass presents great, solid information about the skills that should be taught in high school in order to graduate. Well done!
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinions are my own.
October 2, 2019
I want to start off saying that I'm a big follower of Dave Ramsey and have followed his methods for several years now. The author of this book agrees with Ramsey on most points, but not on a couple others (order of paying off debt, and when/how much to save for retirement). However, he does a good job explaining why. I really liked how this book was organized and laid out. I also appreciated the chapters on investing and retirement accounts. Most of the time I find this information confusing, but the author was able to use tables, charts, and simple wording to make bonds and stocks more easily understood. This book included some subjects that most other finance books don’t include; such as what to do in retirement (not just financially) and ways to be content and happy with less. I really liked that the author included a summary at the end of each chapter. I would recommend this book to people just starting out or finance gurus. There is something for everyone in this book. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
September 10, 2019
The synopsis makes a lot of promises and the language of the synopsis gives you high hopes that the book will be easy to understand. I am so happy that Chris Dumont delivers in that area. Nobody wants a Self-Help book like this to be so inundated with difficult to understand language, that just makes the ability to apply what you learn seem impossible. Dumont manages to clearly and concisely give the reader steps to follow while also showing them how they may have gone wrong thus far. Correct your mistakes, learn from them, and then going forward do it the right way. I was very surprised by how much this book stood out from others like it!
August 12, 2019
This is a pretty good financial book that covers a wide variety of topics like: investing, earning extra money with a side hustle, retirement, real estate, and other general advice. The author has definitely done his research and knows what he's talking about. As someone who doesn't know much about investing, I definitely found that section to be the most helpful for me.
All in all, I'd recommend this one for people who are looking for financial advice, specifically in the arenas of retirement and investing.
All in all, I'd recommend this one for people who are looking for financial advice, specifically in the arenas of retirement and investing.
September 23, 2019
Don’t let the title fool you—this is a grounded and realistic approach to paying off debt and building your savings. The author does a fantastic job of taking things in incremental steps and explaining things in an easy and relatable way, especially stocks and investing. I found it especially helpful that he showed how someone making $40,000 a year who is committed to saving and investing can have a more fruitful retirement than someone making 3 times that who raises his spending every time gets more money.
Really great book!
Really great book!
November 6, 2019
I couldn't figure out half stars, so I'll start by saying I rate this book at 3.5 stars. The book is written in a fairly easy to understand style, and quick and to the point on most topics, a sort of cliff notes feel to it. Much of the content was review for me, but I realize I am in the minority, and I think the information will be very useful to many. Some of the suggested tasks may seem unattainable, but the advise is fairly sound, and it takes pains to be financially sound. I received an advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
July 26, 2019
This was a well written, timely and necessary book. While some of the specific information doesn't apply to me, because I live outside USA and Canada, I think the principles are the relevant. This is exactly what I wished they taught us in school. The information was so easy to understand and it covered, home ownership, investment, saving, budgeting etc. I really appreciated that after every chapter there was a summary.
August 20, 2019
Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Dumont. This book is great, it has so much helpful information. I’m reading it with my young adult son and making a game out of who is benefiting the most by reading on following tips and strategies. Honestly, it’s a win-win for me. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2019
I can't recommend this fantastic book enough! The financial self-help book will help guide you along the way to your financial goals. Written in an uncomplicated manner with helpful information, this book is especially useful for those looking for financial advice and guidance. I would give this book five out of five stars.
June 28, 2020
If I could give just five kinds of books to a high school or college graduate, they would be -- (1.) a basic cookbook; (2.) a book on improving communication skills; (3.) a book on how to get along better with people; (4.) a book on how to set goals, and (5.) a book about budgeting and finances.
"Kicking Financial Ass" has met most of my criteria for a book I would ideally recommend -- the sound principles of money management are explained in layman's terms, the most relevant categories (homeownership, insurance, health) are adequately expounded on, with the author leaving feasible takeaways. More importantly, one isn't left feeling as if one needs to land a well-paying job, receive an inheritance, or win the lottery first before taking steps to improve one's financial lot in life. This, for me, is tremendously empowering.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"Kicking Financial Ass" has met most of my criteria for a book I would ideally recommend -- the sound principles of money management are explained in layman's terms, the most relevant categories (homeownership, insurance, health) are adequately expounded on, with the author leaving feasible takeaways. More importantly, one isn't left feeling as if one needs to land a well-paying job, receive an inheritance, or win the lottery first before taking steps to improve one's financial lot in life. This, for me, is tremendously empowering.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 1, 2023
The information in this book was great and one can learn many things from it. Its especially great for people who are young and just starting out. I wish i have this information when I was in my early 20s. But most of this advice doesn't apply to those of us in our middle years or beyond. I'd like to see a book written geared to those who start later in life.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2019
I received a copy of Paul Christopher Dumont’s self-published, about-to-be-released book Kicking Financial Ass: Punch Debt in the Face, Invest for the Future, and Retire Early! via NetGalley. The bullet…It’s a highly accessible, easy to understand guide to money for anyone.
While Dumont wrote the book for his own generation of Millenials, it is actually an excellent financial resource guide for anyone. I’ve read a lot of great money books over the years including
I Will Teach You To Be Rich,
The Total Money Makeover: Classic Edition: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness, and, my favorite of all
It’s Not About the Money: A Financial Game Plan for Staying Safe, Sane, and Calm in Any Economy
They are all exceptional, but I can honestly say that Dumont’s Kicking Financial Ass: Punch Debt in the Face, Invest for the Future, and Retire Early! is the most comprehensive and the easiest to understand. If you follow his practical advice, which most of us should, you can, like him, potentially “work 9 to 5 like most … readers [and be] on track to retire in 10 years even though [he] had $50,000 of debt only four years ago.”
Dumont spends some time talking about values in the book. I actually think he could go much deeper into this topic but he does get at happiness and trying to determine what will make you happy (hint – it’s not about stuff). I actually think combining Dumont’s book and It’s Not About the Money would be an excellent combo to help you better understand your own money style and then apply that with Dumont’s tips and practical advice.
This is also the first book that I’ve read that does two things. First, it delves into the differences in Canadian accounts. While most of the book is written for Americans, the book also covers Canadian specific retirement issues. I’m just a bit of a nerd so I enjoyed reading this section. Second, Dumont takes an incredibly honest, and in my opinion, very accurate approach to real estate as an investment tool. I know far too many people who have tried to use real estate and got upside down. Dumont talks very honestly about the pros and cons of real estate.
The book also does not need to be read cover to cover. You can absolutely skip around. Kicking Financial Ass will easily become a reference book you come back to year in and year out.
While I live comfortably and with the relative security of anyone who has a good job they love and isn’t independently wealthy, I wish I’d made some of the decisions Dumont outlines in his book much earlier in life. Do yourself a favor and pre-order a copy of this book or grab a copy of this book when it releases on August 6, 2019. Grab a few copies for friends and loved ones, especially younger folks who are in the best position to take this advice and run with it.
While Dumont wrote the book for his own generation of Millenials, it is actually an excellent financial resource guide for anyone. I’ve read a lot of great money books over the years including
I Will Teach You To Be Rich,
The Total Money Makeover: Classic Edition: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness, and, my favorite of all
It’s Not About the Money: A Financial Game Plan for Staying Safe, Sane, and Calm in Any Economy
They are all exceptional, but I can honestly say that Dumont’s Kicking Financial Ass: Punch Debt in the Face, Invest for the Future, and Retire Early! is the most comprehensive and the easiest to understand. If you follow his practical advice, which most of us should, you can, like him, potentially “work 9 to 5 like most … readers [and be] on track to retire in 10 years even though [he] had $50,000 of debt only four years ago.”
Dumont spends some time talking about values in the book. I actually think he could go much deeper into this topic but he does get at happiness and trying to determine what will make you happy (hint – it’s not about stuff). I actually think combining Dumont’s book and It’s Not About the Money would be an excellent combo to help you better understand your own money style and then apply that with Dumont’s tips and practical advice.
This is also the first book that I’ve read that does two things. First, it delves into the differences in Canadian accounts. While most of the book is written for Americans, the book also covers Canadian specific retirement issues. I’m just a bit of a nerd so I enjoyed reading this section. Second, Dumont takes an incredibly honest, and in my opinion, very accurate approach to real estate as an investment tool. I know far too many people who have tried to use real estate and got upside down. Dumont talks very honestly about the pros and cons of real estate.
The book also does not need to be read cover to cover. You can absolutely skip around. Kicking Financial Ass will easily become a reference book you come back to year in and year out.
While I live comfortably and with the relative security of anyone who has a good job they love and isn’t independently wealthy, I wish I’d made some of the decisions Dumont outlines in his book much earlier in life. Do yourself a favor and pre-order a copy of this book or grab a copy of this book when it releases on August 6, 2019. Grab a few copies for friends and loved ones, especially younger folks who are in the best position to take this advice and run with it.
November 2, 2019
Growing up my mother had me helping her use a ledger to record her expenses. I guess it was her way of teaching me budgeting. She knew back then that we wouldn’t learn to budget or balance a checkbook in school.
Unfortunately, copying her checkbook into a ledger didn’t help me either. I had no idea how to budget or why I would need to budget. After college I found myself in massive credit card debt and I had no way of paying it off. I will admit she bailed me out a few times and I’m thankful for that.
However, after she had a stroke last year, I realized I needed to man up and figure this out on my own. Adulting was a must at this point!
Since I love reading, I started looking for books to help me figure this money thing out. Doing it on my own always resulted in getting in more and more debt instead of the other way around.
There’s several great books out there that I’ve gained valuable information about money, finance, and budgeting. But when I came across Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Dumont, I was pleasantly surprised. Some of the financial info was very similar, but Dumont explains things with real life examples.
Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Dumont with a latte and a tiara #bookslattesandtiaras
Being from Canada, Dumont shares some differences between Canada and the US. Most of these differences seem to be about retirement funds and taxes. There’s also some differences in stocks and what to avoid. Otherwise, the budgeting is basically the same.
Dumont shares in this book to spend less, buy only what you need. Be aware of where your paycheck is going. Instead of buying fancy coffee, make coffee at home. Work towards investing rather than spending beyond your means. Compounding interest in an investment is better than blowing it for immediate gratification.
Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Dumont was provided complimentary in exchange for an honest review. I give this book 5 stars because it shares the best realistic examples for every day people like myself. It encourages me to get my act together and start using index funds and paying off my debts.
Unfortunately, copying her checkbook into a ledger didn’t help me either. I had no idea how to budget or why I would need to budget. After college I found myself in massive credit card debt and I had no way of paying it off. I will admit she bailed me out a few times and I’m thankful for that.
However, after she had a stroke last year, I realized I needed to man up and figure this out on my own. Adulting was a must at this point!
Since I love reading, I started looking for books to help me figure this money thing out. Doing it on my own always resulted in getting in more and more debt instead of the other way around.
There’s several great books out there that I’ve gained valuable information about money, finance, and budgeting. But when I came across Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Dumont, I was pleasantly surprised. Some of the financial info was very similar, but Dumont explains things with real life examples.
Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Dumont with a latte and a tiara #bookslattesandtiaras
Being from Canada, Dumont shares some differences between Canada and the US. Most of these differences seem to be about retirement funds and taxes. There’s also some differences in stocks and what to avoid. Otherwise, the budgeting is basically the same.
Dumont shares in this book to spend less, buy only what you need. Be aware of where your paycheck is going. Instead of buying fancy coffee, make coffee at home. Work towards investing rather than spending beyond your means. Compounding interest in an investment is better than blowing it for immediate gratification.
Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Dumont was provided complimentary in exchange for an honest review. I give this book 5 stars because it shares the best realistic examples for every day people like myself. It encourages me to get my act together and start using index funds and paying off my debts.
December 27, 2019
I found this book to be helpful in planning to find ways to more financially secure. I recommend this book for anyone looking to make their finances and future retirement more secure.
November 4, 2019
Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Dumont is a book that I will highly recommend to those that need the motivation to get their financial house in order. Being in my late 40’s (say it isn’t so), I have admittedly made financial mistakes over the years. There is no time like the present to do a double-check and take the time to make sure you are on the right track.
Kicking Financial Ass is organized in four parts; Foundations, Growth, Investing, and finally Living Your Life. Some may look at a book like this and say, “I know everything there is to know about my finances, I don’t need a book.” If that is you…Congratulations! For the rest of us, this book will give you reliable guidance. Chapter ten is the one that struck a chord with me. I have been on the fence about investing for quite some time. Reading this gave me the insight needed to step out of my shell and take the first step in buying stocks. If I hit it big, I’ll let you know!
Kicking Financial Ass is the perfect book for young adults and millennials. The advice given will undoubtedly give them the firm financial footing needed to make the most of their financial futures. The book is available on Kindle or paperback. With the holidays approaching, why not give the gift of financial security?
Thank you to Paul Christopher Dumont and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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Kicking Financial Ass is organized in four parts; Foundations, Growth, Investing, and finally Living Your Life. Some may look at a book like this and say, “I know everything there is to know about my finances, I don’t need a book.” If that is you…Congratulations! For the rest of us, this book will give you reliable guidance. Chapter ten is the one that struck a chord with me. I have been on the fence about investing for quite some time. Reading this gave me the insight needed to step out of my shell and take the first step in buying stocks. If I hit it big, I’ll let you know!
Kicking Financial Ass is the perfect book for young adults and millennials. The advice given will undoubtedly give them the firm financial footing needed to make the most of their financial futures. The book is available on Kindle or paperback. With the holidays approaching, why not give the gift of financial security?
Thank you to Paul Christopher Dumont and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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September 17, 2019
This is a book I would recommend adding to your financial knowledge toolbox; the information and principles of Dumont's book is easily digestible with having a step by step guidance which I find important for success and continued motivation as you work through each step to obtain financial independence.
I think it would be valuable gift for high school graduates, families who are struggling in debt, those wanting to learn how to invest and to pick up advice on how to think more efficiently when it comes to spending money on housing, cars, and insurance.
The highlights for that made the book interesting were the comparison charts, commonly occurring scenarios, using realistic numbers and his end of chapter summaries.
Two unique factors of this book is:
1) He discusses the United States AND Canadian system which helps bring a better clarity on how his principles work on different platforms.
2) Revisits the core of why we are doing this, not just for the money but for our own gained happiness and I think that is important to highlight.
It helps to add that he is also writing from a millennial's perspective and to use his success as a blueprint is motivating as he can relate to the circumstances millennial's face today with finances.
I think it would be valuable gift for high school graduates, families who are struggling in debt, those wanting to learn how to invest and to pick up advice on how to think more efficiently when it comes to spending money on housing, cars, and insurance.
The highlights for that made the book interesting were the comparison charts, commonly occurring scenarios, using realistic numbers and his end of chapter summaries.
Two unique factors of this book is:
1) He discusses the United States AND Canadian system which helps bring a better clarity on how his principles work on different platforms.
2) Revisits the core of why we are doing this, not just for the money but for our own gained happiness and I think that is important to highlight.
It helps to add that he is also writing from a millennial's perspective and to use his success as a blueprint is motivating as he can relate to the circumstances millennial's face today with finances.
May 9, 2020
This book was well-written and thought out. There were so many different tips and tricks the author gave to manage your money. This book would be great for all ages since the world of investments, negotiation, insurance, and even the cost of living are changing at a rapid pace each and every day. The book was organized into easy to define sections and the author gave real-life examples in each chapter and the pros and cons of the situations. I especially think most people would benefit from the chapter about tackling debt and the different strategies to do so. Most people who have a slurry of debt don't know where to start and get frustrated because of this. This book gives a step-by-step on how to pay debt down strategically. Another really useful chapter was the one on real estate. Again, the author gives the pros and cons of homeownership versus renting and describes the different types of mortgages and what a HELOC is. Overall, this book was a book for anyone living in today's society who would like a little more knowledge about the basics of finance. This is a perfect book to have on your shelf to reference when it is needed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 3, 2019
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
I really enjoyed this book. Realistic and easy to understand financial advice. Actual information that helps you understand your net worth and how to create a working budget. I especially enjoyed the list on different ways to save money which went far beyond the standard save for your future by skipping your daily coffee. While I have paid off all of my credit card debt and students loans, understanding the best way to go about it will certainly be helpful to people in that situation. The breakdowns for retirement were easy to understand and I enjoyed the real world examples! The section on investments was really well done and simplified so that anyone could get a good grasp on where to begin with their portfolio. I also found that the sections covering other types of investments, such as real estate, to be realistic and sound. I loved the section about living your life and ways to find satisfaction after retirement! It's important to understand flexible goals and be malleable during that transitional period. From one millennial to another, bravo!
I really enjoyed this book. Realistic and easy to understand financial advice. Actual information that helps you understand your net worth and how to create a working budget. I especially enjoyed the list on different ways to save money which went far beyond the standard save for your future by skipping your daily coffee. While I have paid off all of my credit card debt and students loans, understanding the best way to go about it will certainly be helpful to people in that situation. The breakdowns for retirement were easy to understand and I enjoyed the real world examples! The section on investments was really well done and simplified so that anyone could get a good grasp on where to begin with their portfolio. I also found that the sections covering other types of investments, such as real estate, to be realistic and sound. I loved the section about living your life and ways to find satisfaction after retirement! It's important to understand flexible goals and be malleable during that transitional period. From one millennial to another, bravo!
October 9, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I very much enjoy reading personal finance books, especially ones geared toward Millennials. I found this one very informative and at times a little too focused on exact numbers and formulas (although these are important). My biggest criticism of this title is that I felt Dumont made assumptions about the reader and his/her ability and/or desire to make more money. It does seem to be a trend these days to label Millennials as active participants in the “gig economy”. Dumont spend an entire chapter on ways to make extra income on the side aka “Side Hustles”. While that may be appealing to some, I personally have zero interest in a side hustle. I love my primary and sole career as a public librarian and have no intention of creating a side business. However, the other chapters focusing on managing finances were beneficial to me. I’m not sure I could say that this book is unique in its presentation of information for Millennials but it is yet another good option for this generation to learn personal finance basics.
I very much enjoy reading personal finance books, especially ones geared toward Millennials. I found this one very informative and at times a little too focused on exact numbers and formulas (although these are important). My biggest criticism of this title is that I felt Dumont made assumptions about the reader and his/her ability and/or desire to make more money. It does seem to be a trend these days to label Millennials as active participants in the “gig economy”. Dumont spend an entire chapter on ways to make extra income on the side aka “Side Hustles”. While that may be appealing to some, I personally have zero interest in a side hustle. I love my primary and sole career as a public librarian and have no intention of creating a side business. However, the other chapters focusing on managing finances were beneficial to me. I’m not sure I could say that this book is unique in its presentation of information for Millennials but it is yet another good option for this generation to learn personal finance basics.
November 10, 2019
A financial book which covers the basics but is also quite in-depth on some money matters.
The book is informative. It's not really geared for the UK reader joe bloggs with some chapters covering US and Canadian financial matters but money is money and I think anyone reading this book will come away with something no matter where you are from.
I haven't looked at the blog or other websites mentioned but will check these out as I think these will be of benefit.
It wasn't as light hearted as I was expecting after reading the author's introduction but it wasn't a book that left me head scratching although I think to get the best from the book, some chapters would benefit from re-reading.
A good all rounder of a financial book that reminds you of the basics but not in a condescending way. It's also in-depth and informative on more tricky financial matters
A food for thought read especially the cable point. Suddenly my weekly lunch delivery doesn't seem so appealing anymore.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and publishers for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book is informative. It's not really geared for the UK reader joe bloggs with some chapters covering US and Canadian financial matters but money is money and I think anyone reading this book will come away with something no matter where you are from.
I haven't looked at the blog or other websites mentioned but will check these out as I think these will be of benefit.
It wasn't as light hearted as I was expecting after reading the author's introduction but it wasn't a book that left me head scratching although I think to get the best from the book, some chapters would benefit from re-reading.
A good all rounder of a financial book that reminds you of the basics but not in a condescending way. It's also in-depth and informative on more tricky financial matters
A food for thought read especially the cable point. Suddenly my weekly lunch delivery doesn't seem so appealing anymore.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and publishers for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2019
Aimed more at the financial novice, this book is a thorough and easy to understand introduction into different types of investments and ways to save with practical advice that goes beyond cutting your coffee house habit. Different from other books in this genre, the author gives information relevant to those living in the US or Canada, with sections in the chapters devoted to each. While I can see where this is helpful and makes the book appealing to a broader audience, it also means you're getting less bang for your buck since each chapter will be filled with pages you cannot utilize. As mentioned by another reviewer, the author assumes the reader has a decent paying job (though, to be fair, most financial advice does this), but for those this is aimed at (20's) it could be they will be there someday but aren't yet, making the advice perhaps difficult or impossible to follow. However, if you're looking for something a bit beyond financial info for dummies but not ready for MSNBC, this a fun and engaging book that hits all the relevant topics.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the complimentary ebook. This had no impact on my review.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the complimentary ebook. This had no impact on my review.
September 11, 2019
This book was received as an ARC from Paul Christopher Dumont in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
Finances is a topic that gets taken for granted because it is all about keeping up with the Jones' for some people and its all about what you own. But like $$$ once you spend it, it's gone and then you are left with mounting debt that will be troublesome in your life. Paul Christopher Dumont examines all the strategies of getting out of debt, saving money and how a low income if done right can be your greatest asset in retirement. I was blown away by this book with all the comparisons and with all the tips and tricks that got me motivated to try to help me get out of debt for good and have money be the least of my worries.
We will consider adding this title to our Business and Finance collection at the library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
Finances is a topic that gets taken for granted because it is all about keeping up with the Jones' for some people and its all about what you own. But like $$$ once you spend it, it's gone and then you are left with mounting debt that will be troublesome in your life. Paul Christopher Dumont examines all the strategies of getting out of debt, saving money and how a low income if done right can be your greatest asset in retirement. I was blown away by this book with all the comparisons and with all the tips and tricks that got me motivated to try to help me get out of debt for good and have money be the least of my worries.
We will consider adding this title to our Business and Finance collection at the library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
November 9, 2019
Kicking Financial Ass by Paul Christopher Durmont is fantastic. I am a 27-year-old who is still learning the Financial world of debt, mortgages, loans, and credit. I think everyone has been in the hole of " debt" especially us Millenials who have no idea what challenged financially we face and how to even understand. This book really dives down into great categories the financial world brings to us.
Each category was detailed, clear, and informative. I will admit this book is by far a great book to recommend for anyone who is diving into the Financial world or who is new, aka the youngsters. I have a younger sister who just got her first credit card at 18 and already provided her a glimpse of his book to help her navigate the waters.
Really really enjoyed this book, very informative. It took me a while to read through as it has great information. Highly recommend to the younger population who is learning the Financial world, or anyone who needs learning of it as well.
Each category was detailed, clear, and informative. I will admit this book is by far a great book to recommend for anyone who is diving into the Financial world or who is new, aka the youngsters. I have a younger sister who just got her first credit card at 18 and already provided her a glimpse of his book to help her navigate the waters.
Really really enjoyed this book, very informative. It took me a while to read through as it has great information. Highly recommend to the younger population who is learning the Financial world, or anyone who needs learning of it as well.
August 16, 2019
Kicking Financial Ass is a summary of several financial resources bundled into one convenient book. For people who have been improving their financial literacy and working towards early retirement, the tips may not be new, but they're good reminders. Dumont has clearly read some popular finance books, and he even references Mr. Money Mustache's blog. The thing that sets this book apart is the detailed look at both the US *and* Canadian markets. Dumont's book is far more inclusive than the average finance book, and he's always sure to say that if you don't live in North America, you should look at his guidelines, then see what you can do given the laws and markets in your own country. This is the main reason I rated the book so highly, but I took off a star because, at the end of the day, the information is not particularly new.
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