13 Things Rich People Won't Tell You: 325+ Tried and True Secrets to Building Your Fortune by Saving No Matter What Your Salary

by Jennifer Merritt, Roe D'Angelo (Primary Contributor)

Bankers, money managers, fast-trackers, and the ultra-rich themselves spill valuable insider secrets on how to spend your money wisely—and when not to spend it at all.

Bankers, money managers, fast-trackers, and the ultra-rich themselves spill valuable insider secrets on how to spend your money wisely—and when not to spend it at all. Based on the popular Reader’s Digest column, 13 Things Rich People Won’t Tell You offers the most surprising secrets from self-made wealthy folks for making financial abundance a reality. Packed with fascinating stories and insider advice on saving, investing, and spending wisely, this book will expose financial secrets of all kinds so you can become on instant expert in everything related to your money.

Genres: Finance, Money, Nonfiction, Business

304 pages, Paperback

First published September 12, 2013

Reviews

[Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is based on the Reader's Digest column of the same name. It's easy to read because each chapter is basically a list of 13 things. It's a good overview of personal finance, but doesn't go in depth on any one topic. Not every section will apply to every person. The three page appendix at the back is an excellent summary of all the websites referenced in the book. My biggest takeaway? The need to purchase Long Term Care insurance in the next decade.

[Jenifer Mohammed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great resource book with lots of practical methods and strategies for building and maintaining long-term wealth. I will be reading this book again and again to remind myself to practice what it preaches. Loved it!

[DRx Salim Ansari · Rating 3 out of 5]

"13 Things Rich People Won’t Tell You" by Jennifer Merritt is a mixed bag of advice from wealthy people. Some of the tips are really good, like focusing on your mindset and the importance of networking. These are things anyone can use to improve their finances.

One thing I liked is that the book is really easy to read. You don’t have to think too hard or force yourself to get through it, which makes it a nice, light read.

However, not all the advice is useful. Some tips feel too basic or not that helpful, especially if you already know a bit about money management. Because of this, I’m giving it 3 stars. While the book has its strong points, it doesn’t go deep enough into practical advice, which might leave some readers wanting more.

Overall, it’s a decent book if you’re looking for some quick tips, but it might not have all the answers you’re looking for.

[JH · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a fun, eye-catching title. At its heart, though, it’s a finance book. Don’t live beyond your means, don’t worry about keeping up with the Joneses, etc. There are several more advanced topics discussed, as well, such as when to hire a financial advisor and how to afford a luxury purchase (along the lines of a yacht or a camper). In general it was a quick, fun read. If you need something basic stick to Dave Ramsey or Suze Orman, but this is good if you’re lookin to dig a little deeper.

[Miranda Schultz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book with lots of practical advice in many areas of personal finance. I definitely learned a few things & think reading this was time well spent. I borrowed this one from the library but can definitely see the benefit of having a copy on hand to reference as different things arise throughout life.

[Mandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm always interested in these financial advice books. Most of them seem to be filled with just common sense basics but sometimes you can find a nugget or two that's actually helpful.

[William · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay. Decent. Some good solid info here but a bit dated.

[Jen · Rating 1 out of 5]

The title of this book led me to believe that it would be organized into 13 chapters or sections, possibly with some introductory material and some stuff at the end to bring it all together. That's what appealed to me about the book. I was wrong. Instead there are 6 chapters, with an introduction and an appendix. There's nothing in the introduction that explains the structure of the book, or even why the number 13 is in the title.

The sections within each chapter give numbered lists of "secrets" of the rich. I thought it might make sense if each section contained 13 of these. That was not the case. Ultimately, I was looking for a book with a simple structure that's easy to follow. This one was confusing and didn't even get me interested. And I've read other financial books - it's not that hard to interest me.

I did look at some of the tips. They seemed sound, but they weren't anything I haven't already come across.

[Mckinley · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very odd mix, organizes but a jumble of suggestions. It covers many large financial categories but goes from investment to buying expensive luxury items to talking about unplugging the coffee maker. Not in-depth, leaves the readers with very general suggestions about stock market, buying a house (get a lawyer and the not well explained suggestions of setting up a privacy agreement about making an offer) - need to follow-up and research many suggestions.

[Leanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

Judging from the title, I should have known that this book would be a little superficial. I wouldn't recommend it to someone looking for extensive financial advice. The book covers a lot of ground but doesn't offer a lot of new ideas.

[Darrin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some good (and some bad) common-sense advice on personal finance and how not to get caught doing stupid things with money. I didn't feel like there was a ton of practical advice, but a good, quick, easy read. Book is written in a "Top 10" List format which makes for easy reading and remembering.

[Trish · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had some things that I never thought of before.

[Simple · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book.. Very useful..