Rating: 
Summary: First And BEST starting Guide!!
Review: This is the first and BEST guide I picked up in relation to an over view of the investing world.I borrowed it from the library and am buying it now as a resource..second time read! And it wont be the last time read i'm sure!! A must have!!Brings the intimidation factor down to zero.It breaks it down so well, I'd trust a 3rd grader to invest my money after he or she read this book! lol :)
Rating:
Summary: Everything you were afraid to ask about investing, but......
Review: When I went to a branch office of Schwab, I asked if they had any literature for the novice--ultra novice--investor, one who was even reticent to discuss the subject for fear of revealing genuine ignorance of it.When the broker gave me a copy of Mr. Schwab's book I thought that this was going to turn out to be a booksize ad for the Schwab company. I couldn't have been more incorrect: the book explains even the most fundamental terms/aspects of personal finance and investing in a most clear and insightful way. Yes, of course, the Schwab Co. (and it's services) is mentioned, but in a non-skewed or biased manner--alongside discussions about other such companies. Mr. Schwab recommends some additional books for the beginer--I purchased them, and have been more than satisfied with the contents (i.e.--the "Dummy" series, Jane Bryant Quinn, others.) Mr. Scwab succeeds in his stated desire to demystify (paraphrase) personal finance. It's a fine book.
Rating:
Summary: A good book for beginners
Review: Written for those just beginning to consider an investment plan, Charles Schwab's Guide to Financial Independence provides good sound advice that individuals can't go wrong with. The book includes sections that guide readers through the task of determining their own "investor profile" and asset allocation plan. Schwab recommends diversification through no-load mutual funds and cost-effective index funds and provides additional insight into the tax and record-keeping aspects of mutual fund investing. Some of the more interesting parts of the book: Mrs. Schwab's firsthand experience with an investment club and the book's epilogue, probably the only part actually written by Schwab. I found almost no negatives to this book except the part about dollar-cost-averaging which is a commonly misunderstood concept. Although there were many references to his own company, the book didn't seem to be self-promoting in general. I would recommend this book to anyone with little or no knowledge of investing.
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