The guide is from IDG Books, publisher of the best-selling series that includes “DOS for Dummies,” “Modems for Dummies” and other books for the beleaguered. Author Eric Tyson deals with all the usual topics-real estate, insurance, tax planning-but in a conversational, easy-to-digest format sprinkled with “dumb” icons like a checkmark for “Dummies approved” products such as disability insurance.
The best part is that he holds your hand, step by step, through the basics, ranging from budgeting to figuring out how much you need to retire. Tyson also has the knack for bringing up questions you’re afraid to ask your neighbor. For example: Should I lie to qualify for a mortgage? His answer: “Besides the obvious legal objections, you could end up with more mortgage debt than you can really afford.” Should I put money aside in a college fund for my child? Not if it could go into a tax-sheltered retirement account instead. Tyson’s homily featuring the Selfish family and the Good Intentions family illustrates why the former qualifies for more financial aid-the money isn’t in junior’s name. Now, that’s a move an experienced money pro would be proud of.
