The Money in You!

May 22, 2006
For most working adults, the perpetual state of one's bank account is a major clue to one's financial "personality," so this book may not offer discovery so much as affirmation. Written by Cuban-born financial guru Stav, who became a bestselling author after hosting a PBS series based on her investing book Get Your Share
, this guide introduces financial personality types like the "diva," the "do-gooder," the "diligent investor," the "Dionysian" and the "dependable hoarder." After exploring the advantages and drawbacks of each type and providing coping strategies, Stav delves into the roles that finances can play in relationships with kids, friends and one's spouse. Final chapters look at the fear of success and the "millionaire personality." Although the book provides some decent—if basic—financial advice, it falters in its use of oversimplified financial types. This is perhaps most evident with the organic food–buying, charitable-giving "do-gooder," who the author suggests has no interest in owning a house or buying life insurance and is constantly taken advantage of by friends. Even worse is Stav's condescending attitude toward these values. While her advice is somewhat helpful, the perpetuating of such generalizations is not.