Some pieces of this book I would take with a grain of salt as this was written pre-2007/2008/2009 Market Crash Recession muckfest, (for example, I don't know if I will be consulting anything from Lehman Brothers, figures for comparison or otherwise). Also, legislation has almost certainly changed, likely more than once and must be checked continuously.
But the vast majority of this book still applies for a simple explanation of how to get started at investing, and what on earth some of the terminology means.
There were certain aspects that are still over my head; but other things became so, so clear after reading a specific chapter or paragraph from this book.
I've been so busy I've hardly had a chance to read at all; but I made the time to read this. You have to make the time to plan your financial future.
I may be young, but I've seen the stress it causes people when they haven't done this (or when they have, but haven't agreed upon their financial priorities and strategy). It's one of the biggest things people fight about in relationships.
Do yourself a favor - and learn about, and look out for yourself financially! Nobody else will.
Other frustrations: The complications of finance when one is an American expatriate. Use whatever IRA plan you have while you're (earning an income) in the states! Have to quadruple check but fairly sure I'm not currently allowed to contribute to my own IRA since my income is not earned within the US.
The complications of tax considerations when one is an American expat.
Assignment: Continue searching for (free) resources for American expats to read up on.