The Money School: 12 Simple Lessons to Master Financial Markets and Investing

by Nicole Lapin

Nicole Lapin gets into the nitty gritty of stocks and bonds, touching on how people talk about them and how they can invest in them as part of their investment portfolio.

Genres: Nonfiction, Money, Self Help, Personal Finance, Finance

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 4, 2025

About the author

Nicole Lapin is the New York Times and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author of Rich Bitch, Boss Bitch, Becoming Super Woman and Miss Independent. She has been an anchor on CNN, CNBC and Bloomberg as well as the host of the business reality competition show, "Hatched" that aired on the CW for the first season and CBS for the second. She is the founder of Money News Network, a pioneer business- and finance-focused podcast network, which is the home of her daily show “Money Rehab” that reached #1 on Apple’s business charts as well as “Help Wanted” that she co-hosts with the editor-in-chief of Entrepreneur Magazine Jason Feifer, among other shows on their slate.

Reviews

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m genuinely shocked more people haven’t read this yet. I found this book to be the easiest finance read I’ve ever done with very clear explanations to understand what the heck is going on and then to actually apply it. I will be recommending this book to every other man/woman in their 20s until the day I die.

[Ted · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some good information, mainly on options.

[Matthew Lachman · Rating 5 out of 5]

My bitch.

[Stella Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read several of Nicole Lapin’s books, and one thing she consistently does well is take intimidating financial jargon and translate it into simple, everyday language. The Money School follows that same pattern. Structured like a four-part course, it walks readers through the basics of saving, investing, and building wealth in a way that feels approachable rather than overwhelming.

What stood out most here is how she explains terms like asset allocation, ETFs, and diversification without making you feel lost or talked down to. That said, readers who already have a strong financial background may find some of the chapters too introductory.

Still, as a starting point for someone new to money management, this is a very useful guide. It strips away the fear and confusion that often surround financial concepts and gives you enough clarity to start taking action.

[Camilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read my fair share of finance books, and as someone with a background in finance, I can honestly say The Money School is one of Nicole’s strongest works yet. It offers the most up-to-date and practical advice for today’s financial markets, making complex investing concepts accessible to anyone, especially readers who don’t have a business degree.

For beginners, this book removes the fear and jargon that so often comes with investing. For those with more knowledge, it serves as a practical refresher and a reminder to get back to the fundamentals that actually work. Whether you are just starting your investment journey or brushing up on strategies, The Money School is a must-read guide to mastering your financial future.

[PageWhisper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicole Lapin's The Money School offers a fresh take for finance beginners. This book combines straightforward tips with references to pop culture personal anecdotes, and easy-to-grasp lessons about investing. Its layout - which mirrors a four-course class - allows readers to follow along without feeling swamped.

One of the book's strongest points is Nicole's tone: self-assured, witty, and relatable. She explains the stock market, bonds, and asset allocation in a way that doesn't make you feel dumb for not knowing about them before.

However, some chapters could benefit from more in-depth content writing style is very informal times, the jokes overshadow the main educational content. Readers with some financial knowledge might wish for more substance.

Despite this, the book serves as an excellent starting point for those who want to gain control of their finances and overcome the anxiety or embarrassment often linked to money management.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

W0w I was actually really impressed by this book.

I am going to give it as a HIGH SCHOOL or even college GRADUATION GIFT from now on!

I know that young people don't learn nearly enough (even in the so-called "Personal Finance" classes in high school), and this covers all the topics I wish that they HAD covered for my kids. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.

[Michael Peterson]

Very “live, laugh, love, invest”. A great introduction to investing but that’s what it is, an introduction. She did focus on a few platitudes I hold true:
“Time in the market > timing the market”
“The best time to start investing was yesterday, the second best time is today”
Diversify diversify diversify. Prioritize ETFs, these are built in diversification with a specific focus

[Justine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Financial literacy in an approachable and easy to learn delivery. Should be required reading for all.

[Dan Burt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this!! This is a great companion to the finish rich dictionary. 10/10 Must Read.

[Jane Stoller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Money School by Nicole Lapin! As someone who enjoys keeping my finances organized, this book made it incredibly easy to understand and apply practical tips. Nicole's writing style is straightforward and approachable, breaking down complex financial concepts into simple, actionable steps. She covers all the essential points—from budgeting and investing to saving for big goals—without overwhelming the reader.

Having read all of Nicole's books, I can confidently say that Money School is the most comprehensive and easy-to-follow. Her advice not only helps you get your money in order but also empowers you to stay organized and confident in your financial decisions. Whether you're a finance newbie or looking to level up your money game, this book is a must-read!

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicole Lapin is a champion for female financial literacy. She turns complicated finance information into easily digestible lessons that every adult needs to know. I would highly recommend this book to anyone with a bank account!