KICKING FINANCIAL ASS

A self-described millennial advises his peers on fiscal responsibility.

In this debut personal finance book, Dumont, who is “on track to retire in 10 years even though I had $50,000 of debt only four years ago,” walks readers through the basics of living within one’s means, saving for retirement, and investing. The volume addresses familiar topics—like budgets, the role of debt, how to invest for long-term growth, and the relationship between finances and personal values—that are broadly applicable, though the text makes it clear that the primary audience is millennials: “We tend to focus on experiences instead of financial security, mostly because we believe having both is not feasible.” The author’s approach to financially responsible behavior is strong, with plenty of examples, calculations, and charts, and will be familiar to readers who have already spent time in the genre—limit expenses, establish an emergency fund, maximize income, institute saving as an automatic process, and make a fulfilling retirement the object of all this frugality and planning. One thing that sets this work apart from its competitors is that Dumont is Canadian, and he provides detailed information specific to Canadian readers, like retirement and investment options, that is not often found in American books. (Readers used to U.S. college tuition may feel more than a twinge of jealousy when the author notes that he paid one semester’s costs by selling 20 iPhones on eBay.) The text is deftly written and informative, though as with many personal finance books, it covers a recognizable set of instructions for monetary success. Readers who find that advice like “Take advantage of happy hour if you are going out with friends. The cost savings will add up” and “If a girl is only dating me because I have a car, that is not a good sign” fits well with their lifestyles and goals will likely appreciate Dumont’s particular take on the topic.

A solid book of financial insights clearly aimed at millennials.