Review
In the revised second edition of The First Book of Investing: The Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Building Wealth Safely, financial advisor Samuel Case starts with a simple but substantial overview of today’s major investment opportunities designed for readers who know absolutely nothing about the various alternatives available. He then guides the former novice through intermediate-level possibilities and higher-risk options with the aim of creating a portfolio that t…
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If you are a “would-be investor” then this is the book I would strongly recommend. From stocks, futures and mutual funds to bonds and real estate, it gives an overview of each facet of the investment industry and explains the jargon and phrases in practical and easy to understand language. It even suggests a specific diversified model portfolio which new investors will find very useful. Unlike a previous reviewer I found the author’s leaning toward socially responsible investing both interesting and refreshing. If your money is currently earning next to nothing in a bank savings account and you want to learn more about your investment alternatives, this be THE book.
This book is very helpful to those people that are completely new to the world of investing. The basic terms are very clearly explained, and the the different types of investing are carefully introduced so as not to overwhelm the reader with too much information. If you have never owned a stock before or do not know what a bond is, then this is the book that you should read first. I found that this book explained everything to me that I did not know about investing basics. After reading this book, you will have a much easier time reading more advanced books on investing. I recommend this book to all beginners.
If mutual funds, stock options, and equities make your head spin, this book is for you. Case has written a book that is easy to read and understand yet remains information packed. Even after finishing the book, it makes an excellent reference. The first section is a logically organized tutorial into the wide world of investing. What I really like about this book is that it overlooks no investment. As a high school student short on cash, it was refreshing to read about how I can begin investing with as little as $50. The only problem I have with the book is Chapter 12 “Socially Responsible Investing.” Case continually uses nuclear power as a market example that is not socially responsible. This is not totally accurate. The reason socially responsible funds don’t invest in nuclear power is because often time by investing in nuclear power you also invest in fossil fuel utilities as well. Besdies Case’s cynicism in Chapter 12, I loved this book.