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More Than Just Making It: Hope for the Heart of the Financially Frustrated
When you’re trapped in a cycle of financial frustration, and you feel like you’ve tried everything only to end up with more month than money yet again, More Than Just Making It is your promise and pathway to thriving again.
Take it from someone who’s been there. Erin Odom grew up in the private schools and neatly manicured lawns of Upper Middle Class America, but was thrown into low-income living during the economic crash. She was a stay-at-home-mom, her husband was supporting the family on a teacher’s salary, and despite the fact that they had no debt to their name, they were scrambling to make ends meet. Suddenly Erin found herself standing in line for food stamps, turning down play dates because she couldn’t afford the gas, and ultimately walking into bankruptcy court in the eighth month of her third pregnancy.
More Than Just Making It tells the story of their breaking point, as well as the triumph of their comeback. It took hard work, creativity, and faith in God’s provision to reset their bank account as well as their hearts, but ultimately they found a new way to thrive and freedom from financial anxiety. You can do the same. Learn how Erin and her family saved enough money to put $30,000 down on a home, buy a minivan in cash, and begin sending their daughter to private Christian school. More Than Just Making It will encourage readers to rise above their circumstances, empower them with money-saving tips, and reimagine the good life as God designed it outside the myth of the American Dream.
Take it from someone who’s been there. Erin Odom grew up in the private schools and neatly manicured lawns of Upper Middle Class America, but was thrown into low-income living during the economic crash. She was a stay-at-home-mom, her husband was supporting the family on a teacher’s salary, and despite the fact that they had no debt to their name, they were scrambling to make ends meet. Suddenly Erin found herself standing in line for food stamps, turning down play dates because she couldn’t afford the gas, and ultimately walking into bankruptcy court in the eighth month of her third pregnancy.
More Than Just Making It tells the story of their breaking point, as well as the triumph of their comeback. It took hard work, creativity, and faith in God’s provision to reset their bank account as well as their hearts, but ultimately they found a new way to thrive and freedom from financial anxiety. You can do the same. Learn how Erin and her family saved enough money to put $30,000 down on a home, buy a minivan in cash, and begin sending their daughter to private Christian school. More Than Just Making It will encourage readers to rise above their circumstances, empower them with money-saving tips, and reimagine the good life as God designed it outside the myth of the American Dream.
244 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2017
131 people are currently reading
726 people want to read
About the author
Erin Odom
9 books182 followersErin Odom is the author of More Than Just Making It and You Can Stay Home With Your Kids and is the founder of The Humbled Homemaker, a blog dedicated to grace-filled living designed to equip and encourage mothers in the trenches. She is passionate about Jesus, motherhood, crunchy living, and seeing women use their God-given gifts and passions to overcome life's challenges. Her Southern charm and wealth of inspirational, practical content has drawn an audience of millions over the years. Erin and her husband, Will, live in North Carolina, where they raise their three spirited redheaded girls and sweet and spoiled redheaded boy. Follow Erin at thehumbledhomemaker.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
June 21, 2017
If you've ever felt the stress of being tight on money or you've struggled to make ends meet, you will be able to identify with Erin as she tells her family's story. I felt immediately drawn in to More Than Just Making It as Erin shares her own journey and what she did over the years when money was tight. Even though my family situation is different than hers, she spoke directly to my heart on so many issues. I found myself highlighting and taking notes throughout the book with many of her practical suggestions. This isn't merely a book to help you with your finances, it's a book to help you change your perspective on finances and what it means to "make it" in our society. I never thought a book on money and finances could suck me in so completely. I am so thankful that Erin chose to share her heart and her story in this must-read book!
July 10, 2017
Most people don't talk about finances. And if they do talk about finances, it's because they've got things under control. They don't talk about how they were hungry because the money ran out, they don't talk about much stress and depression their finances put on their marriage, and they definitely don't talk about how they signed up for food stamps.
But Erin does.
She's also the first person in years of struggling financially who was given me permission to not berate myself for not saving enough, for not making the money stretch far enough, and for not finding ways to buy more groceries for less money. Turns out, we have an income problem--not a spending problem, and knowing that is somehow this huge relief!
I've read a lot of Dave Ramsey-type of books over the years, but this one is very, very different. It's truly one of the honest and most vulnerable books I've come across, and it's written to my generation--the generation that graduated college and then had the economy drop out from under us. The things that worked for our parents just aren't working for us, and I'm so excited there are finally voices like Erin's willing to speak hope into those situations!
Thank you, Erin!!!
But Erin does.
She's also the first person in years of struggling financially who was given me permission to not berate myself for not saving enough, for not making the money stretch far enough, and for not finding ways to buy more groceries for less money. Turns out, we have an income problem--not a spending problem, and knowing that is somehow this huge relief!
I've read a lot of Dave Ramsey-type of books over the years, but this one is very, very different. It's truly one of the honest and most vulnerable books I've come across, and it's written to my generation--the generation that graduated college and then had the economy drop out from under us. The things that worked for our parents just aren't working for us, and I'm so excited there are finally voices like Erin's willing to speak hope into those situations!
Thank you, Erin!!!
January 25, 2018
This book is more about making an argument in favor of government welfare than giving helpful ideas about how to be content and frugal. The author’s main goal seems to be to convince her audience that government welfare is good and should be embraced by the Church.
December 1, 2018
Eh. I wanted to love this book. The author tells her story of her family’s financial struggles and how they came out of them into a season of plenty.
However, I found this book frustrating. I agree with the author that there should be no shame in using government assistance when it’s truly needed. On the other hand, I found her to be privileged in so many other ways like a family who is nearby to help and no student loans. I could live on a lot less if I didn’t have student loans and costly daycare expenses. For some one who makes too much to get assistance, but struggles to make ends meet, these tips are good, but nothing new.
The book wraps up with a chapter that reminds us to see God as our provider and to trust things will work out in time. It seemed a little too sugar-sweet to me, however no one sells books saying they trusted in God and he didn’t come through. So, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised.
Bottom line: if you live below the poverty line, and haven’t done much reading into how to save money, this might be the book for you. If you’re already super frugal, there may not be new ideas here.
However, I found this book frustrating. I agree with the author that there should be no shame in using government assistance when it’s truly needed. On the other hand, I found her to be privileged in so many other ways like a family who is nearby to help and no student loans. I could live on a lot less if I didn’t have student loans and costly daycare expenses. For some one who makes too much to get assistance, but struggles to make ends meet, these tips are good, but nothing new.
The book wraps up with a chapter that reminds us to see God as our provider and to trust things will work out in time. It seemed a little too sugar-sweet to me, however no one sells books saying they trusted in God and he didn’t come through. So, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised.
Bottom line: if you live below the poverty line, and haven’t done much reading into how to save money, this might be the book for you. If you’re already super frugal, there may not be new ideas here.
August 8, 2017
This is the compelling story of a family who is barely making it and what they learn from that as well as a discussion of the choices that they make. From a Christian perspective, the book provides some "wake up calls" for fellow Christians who proclaim that the church and the church alone should help the poor. Odom demonstrates why this is not always a practical solution to the complex issues facing the working poor. She makes readers confront their assumptions about those receiving government assistance and those who file bankruptcy.
However, this is not a guide book for those in financial difficulty, and the rather smooth, pat ending feels challenging for those who do not have the "leg up" that Odom identifies through the course of the book. A promised second book should fill in these gaps.
I found the expected Christian sentiments jarring at times as if forced into the narrative to make it more appropriate for its Christian audience. Overall, though, it's a good book with an interesting story.
However, this is not a guide book for those in financial difficulty, and the rather smooth, pat ending feels challenging for those who do not have the "leg up" that Odom identifies through the course of the book. A promised second book should fill in these gaps.
I found the expected Christian sentiments jarring at times as if forced into the narrative to make it more appropriate for its Christian audience. Overall, though, it's a good book with an interesting story.
October 5, 2017
This book unfortunately was not geared to me, and I feel as though the book was missing a cover line that read: Guidance for the Evangelical Christian.
There are some good ideas here for those living through struggling financial times. However, the main message of the book is that God will provide. The author states this over and over and over again. That concept, however, is so situational and is, I think, born from privilege.
I applaud the author for taking on conservative Christian churches that both pity and revile the poor. This is a message that needs to be heard, and she is well positioned to make it.
So much of the book is viewed from a very traditional, conservative viewpoint. Although the author recognizes that women must sometimes work, you cannot miss the idea that women should strive to stay home with their children. The book is told from so much of a Christian viewpoint, that non-Christians (Muslims, Jews, atheists, etc.) would not be able to see themselves in these pages.
I really was hoping for this woman's story. In between the preaching, we get that story, but there are aspects that are clearly missing. We're told many times about the strained relationship between her and her husband, but are never told why their marriage was so strained. Even if she wasn't open to sharing the details, it was mentioned so often that I thought that we would surely find out what the problem was and how it was resolved.
This author is a good person, a good writer, with a story to tell. But it's designed to not be a story for everyone.
NOTE: I read the paperback copy of the book not the audiobook but could not find the paperback version of the book in Goodreads.
There are some good ideas here for those living through struggling financial times. However, the main message of the book is that God will provide. The author states this over and over and over again. That concept, however, is so situational and is, I think, born from privilege.
I applaud the author for taking on conservative Christian churches that both pity and revile the poor. This is a message that needs to be heard, and she is well positioned to make it.
So much of the book is viewed from a very traditional, conservative viewpoint. Although the author recognizes that women must sometimes work, you cannot miss the idea that women should strive to stay home with their children. The book is told from so much of a Christian viewpoint, that non-Christians (Muslims, Jews, atheists, etc.) would not be able to see themselves in these pages.
I really was hoping for this woman's story. In between the preaching, we get that story, but there are aspects that are clearly missing. We're told many times about the strained relationship between her and her husband, but are never told why their marriage was so strained. Even if she wasn't open to sharing the details, it was mentioned so often that I thought that we would surely find out what the problem was and how it was resolved.
This author is a good person, a good writer, with a story to tell. But it's designed to not be a story for everyone.
NOTE: I read the paperback copy of the book not the audiobook but could not find the paperback version of the book in Goodreads.
July 10, 2017
I really enjoyed this book! Erin is so relatable, and the powerful interweaving of story and inspiration and practical help makes this easy to read and also life-impacting. I recommend it!
August 2, 2017
Erin Odem knows our story to well when it comes to family worries, along with the stress of "how will our family make it through from week to week, month to month, and year to year. When grocery supply is low and you scourer the pantry and wonder " what can I throw together for dinner?" She knows it all to well above and beyond seeing Gods Provisions daily through the eyes of her children and family trying to survive and make it on her husbands teacher salary and has let us into her life and heart in telling her story! This comes with practical money saving tips on how to save and pinch pennies and be conservative when it matters. She sees it all the way through and guess what? This family made it through it all with Gods love, grace, strength and hope. I love most all she tells about her relationship with God and how he gave her strength to hold onto hope that there really was something better! He definitely blessed her in and with her writing! This is the type of book that can be read In one sitting! I couldn't put it down and I think its a #1 beat seller all families and churches could learn from and turn the last page walking away with a hope they never knew existed. It makes sure heart feel great! A must read! Pre-order now and you'll be able to enjoy all kinds of free gifts when you order! You have to read this book! Its a sure fire WINNER! I'M SO GRATEFUL AND HAPPY I READ IT AND YOU MUST!
April 27, 2018
Erin's book is great, and not just for those who are "barely making it" or "financially frustrated". Although I've been in both of those places in my life, my experience pales in comparison to hers. What I found most illuminating in this memoir of sorts is that Erin talks about the process of barely making it from a Christian perspective: the shame, even within the church, of having to apply for assistance, declare bankruptcy, or ask for scholarships. Erin's experience as a journalist leads her stories to come together well, and be exceptionally well-researched and put together. She just released another book this week, called You Can Stay Home With Your Kids, which is mostly about living on one income. I felt that this broader overview of her entire financial journey to date was a great starting point, and I'm looking forward to seeing what else she releases.
September 8, 2017
More Than Just Making It is a mix between a memoir, a Christian living book, and a book on frugality/money saving methods. I found it to be a quick read, with many practical tips presented. Erin's story is encouraging that even those in desperate financial situations can have hope, because God will provide. The ending, where Erin presents her family's changed financial situation, was hard for me to read while my family is currently in a rough financial patch, only because it seems unlikely that we will be able to reach the level of financial blessing that her family has achieved. I recommend this book for the practical tips from a Christian perspective and for encouragement that things can improve.
July 10, 2017
More Than Just Making It is a remarkable account of one family’s fight to regain financial freedom after encountering devastating losses. In this candid, humble, and thought-provoking book, Erin sheds light on the silent sufferers among us – the working poor. I will never look at government aid the same again. This is a must-read for every follower of Christ.
July 8, 2017
If you have been or are in a tight, stressful or scary financial situation, you should read this book! Erin takes you through her story of struggle, worry, stress, children and God's grace. it is a great read, easy to get into and such an inspiration. I couldn't stop reading.
This book will give you hope for your situation, let you see that you are not alone, point you toward God and His love and provision and give tips on how to budget better, cut un-needed costs and give ways you can help increase your income.
Erin is an amazing writer that pulls you right into her story and allows you a transparent look into what she went through. I highly recommend this book!!!
This book will give you hope for your situation, let you see that you are not alone, point you toward God and His love and provision and give tips on how to budget better, cut un-needed costs and give ways you can help increase your income.
Erin is an amazing writer that pulls you right into her story and allows you a transparent look into what she went through. I highly recommend this book!!!
July 8, 2017
I can't say enough about this book. Erin is brutally honest, open and truly bears her heart and soul with us. This book was one of the most relatable books that I have every read. She really touches on some hard issues that so many of us have struggled with and continue to experience the struggles of in our daily lives. This book will touch many hearts.
July 24, 2017
tldr: this book is full of hope, especially for those who are struggling financially. Recommend!
I was a part of the launch team for this book. In the interest of full disclosure, I want to be clear that this book was given to me for free by the publisher to review prior to its release date. However, the opinion expressed here is my completely own.
Over the course of time it took me to read this book, two friends have confessed to me in private conversation that money is very tight. With a mountian of debt, and a paycheck that barely covers the bills, both of these women expressed a feeling of hopelessness. They were worried sick about their financial future. But, from the surface, you would have no idea that individuals lie awake at night worrying about money!
And, I understand! When my husband and I got married in college at age 20, we had no idea that we would still be paying for our early financial decisions nearly a decade later!
Erin's story is a reminder that even with making wise financial decisions, any one of us could find ourselves in her shoes, living in financial ruin below the poverty level and in need of help to get buy. Her timely message is for readers of all socio-economic status: not everyone who is receiving government aid is abusing the system! In fact, we all should be more thankful that these programs are in place!
As Erin and her rapidly growing family are led to their breaking point through the humbling reality of experiencing poverty in the US, they choose to trust God to provide. As their faith is strengthened, so is their hope, and they receive lots of encouragmement and help along the way.
Beyond the hope-filled story, the primary reason I recomend this book is because of the practical advice it contains. Erin provides the basics of what kind of help exists today, where to find it, how to live on a budget, how to reduce spending, and how to change our mindsets from "keeping up with the Jonses" to a "New American Dream." Her words are a beacon of hope for anyone who is financially discouraged by lighting the path to help and a brighter future.
PS Can't wait to share this message with my two friends!
I was a part of the launch team for this book. In the interest of full disclosure, I want to be clear that this book was given to me for free by the publisher to review prior to its release date. However, the opinion expressed here is my completely own.
Over the course of time it took me to read this book, two friends have confessed to me in private conversation that money is very tight. With a mountian of debt, and a paycheck that barely covers the bills, both of these women expressed a feeling of hopelessness. They were worried sick about their financial future. But, from the surface, you would have no idea that individuals lie awake at night worrying about money!
And, I understand! When my husband and I got married in college at age 20, we had no idea that we would still be paying for our early financial decisions nearly a decade later!
Erin's story is a reminder that even with making wise financial decisions, any one of us could find ourselves in her shoes, living in financial ruin below the poverty level and in need of help to get buy. Her timely message is for readers of all socio-economic status: not everyone who is receiving government aid is abusing the system! In fact, we all should be more thankful that these programs are in place!
As Erin and her rapidly growing family are led to their breaking point through the humbling reality of experiencing poverty in the US, they choose to trust God to provide. As their faith is strengthened, so is their hope, and they receive lots of encouragmement and help along the way.
Beyond the hope-filled story, the primary reason I recomend this book is because of the practical advice it contains. Erin provides the basics of what kind of help exists today, where to find it, how to live on a budget, how to reduce spending, and how to change our mindsets from "keeping up with the Jonses" to a "New American Dream." Her words are a beacon of hope for anyone who is financially discouraged by lighting the path to help and a brighter future.
PS Can't wait to share this message with my two friends!
July 20, 2018
This is a good book for those starting out managing their finances or are struggling financially. She pointed out many great helpful saving tips, many which we have already been doing, along with providing some ideas for those that are looking to make a little more income to help their financial situation. I do think that sometimes we forget the importance of managing our money and what happens when we don't. She talks about the problems that many American's have and that is a spending problem, but there are also so many that are just are not able to make enough to make ends meet because they have an income problem. She shares their family story, the time they spent on government aide and what they learned from it. It is a touching story, and she brought up some great thoughts for me to ponder on. I enjoyed the information from other financial professionals and quotes from other books on spending/saving, along with her biblical perspective. One she does recommend, Dave Ramsey, which we did years ago and is one program I would highly recommend. In addition, she touches a little on the American culture and how we are spoiled with excess, to which I would agree! We American's do not realize the comforts we have because we live in the US.
August 7, 2017
Get a notebook out when you read this book! It is filled with nuggets of wisdom and encouragement for the weary heart. My husband and I have been discouraged by other books when reading about finances. We do it all right! We budget, we stick to our budget, we are trying to build our emergency fund.....Erin's book was the first time we'd really considered we had an income problem as opposed to a spending problem.
Not only did I feel like this book showed how to best live life on an small income, but it encouraged me to remember how blessed I am already. Sometimes I forget to look for the blessings Jesus has given. Erin reminds us to not look at others but to see what good God has done.
I recommend this book to all. Even if you aren't just making it, this book talks about government aid programs and the church's role in helping low income families.
Not only did I feel like this book showed how to best live life on an small income, but it encouraged me to remember how blessed I am already. Sometimes I forget to look for the blessings Jesus has given. Erin reminds us to not look at others but to see what good God has done.
I recommend this book to all. Even if you aren't just making it, this book talks about government aid programs and the church's role in helping low income families.
September 17, 2017
This book has restored hope to me that bloggers can indeed write books. It helps that Erin has a journalism background. Well written!!
But more than that the book helped me deal with my own financial struggles from my past: the embarrassment of being on WIC, the tension and questions of whether it's biblical to accept government help, the frustrations of being stuck with owning a home out of state that I can't afford or afford to sell, and the feeling that there is no end in sight of not making enough. I kept reading and saying "me, too!" and "I know EXACTLY how she feels!"
I don't think I got any practical tips from the book, but I was encouraged to hear from someone else with a similar past and hear what conclusions she came up with to get herself through.
But more than that the book helped me deal with my own financial struggles from my past: the embarrassment of being on WIC, the tension and questions of whether it's biblical to accept government help, the frustrations of being stuck with owning a home out of state that I can't afford or afford to sell, and the feeling that there is no end in sight of not making enough. I kept reading and saying "me, too!" and "I know EXACTLY how she feels!"
I don't think I got any practical tips from the book, but I was encouraged to hear from someone else with a similar past and hear what conclusions she came up with to get herself through.
September 5, 2017
Ever feel like your stuck in a cycle of income and bills with very little to nothing left at the end of the month? Feel like you're barely making it and holding on for dear life as the financial roller coaster speeds down the track at terrifying speeds? Maybe you're doing ok but want to reign in some spending to be able to allocate that money somewhere else? This book is for everyone no matter where they fall along the road of finances. The author opens the book by telling her story; how she got to the place she is now. This builds rapport with the reader. She knows what she's talking about! She then takes you through steps to figure out what's going on. "The first step is figuring out the root cause of your financial challenges... for some,... it's a low income. For others, it's poor spending habits." (39) she gives examples of spending and income problems so the reader can easily identify which category they fall into. She gets real and talks about their mistakes and what they had to do to fix it. And the best part? She includes scripture. She sends you back to the Bible for the why's and how to's. "Instead of seeking God to meet our needs, we have he tendency to fill our lives with things that don't last." (51) There's entire chapters dedicated to curbing spending, making a budget, eating well on a rice and beans budget (that doesn't have to include coupons! Yay!), meal planning, etc. The author encourages the reader to look at things as gifts from the Lord instead of Luck. This changed my thought process and I think was one of my main take aways from the book. When I find a good deal? It's the Lord's provision; a gift! When I'm in the right place at the right time and maybe someone pays for my bill, the Lord! And in the end draws everything back to the heart. It's a heart issue. But she does it in such a gracious loving way. This book rocked my world. It's so good. You need to read this book. I've only mentioned some of the awesome things about this book. Pick it up read it and let the Lord use it to change your life for his glory. I don't feel like the book is preachy so it's good even if you're not a religious person. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to post a positive review.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to post a positive review.
September 7, 2017
More than just a self help!! I felt like Erin was a friend sitting in my living room; opening up about financial struggles that many of us might hesitate to admit to having. She's open and honest about her story. But also shares so many points of wisdom that we all might think about trying or doing.
Her transparency makes the reader trust her position and feel like you aren't alone in this life. Even if you aren't experiencing all the hardships Erin did - this book would still be beneficial to read. I can't wait to pass it on to friends and family. A great read - I took so much from this book for myself, my family and now to share!
Her transparency makes the reader trust her position and feel like you aren't alone in this life. Even if you aren't experiencing all the hardships Erin did - this book would still be beneficial to read. I can't wait to pass it on to friends and family. A great read - I took so much from this book for myself, my family and now to share!
December 12, 2023
I had high hopes for this book. In the early chapters, the author describes living at or below the poverty level and seems to be mostly level-headed and refreshingly realistic in terms of what can be done when living at a very low income. Although she comes out as a religious person, that didn't seem to be problematic as her writing sparkled with authenticity and she was neither preachy nor overly grateful. She didn't attribute everything to "grace" or "His will." She seemed quite up front about the circumstances of her family's money issues amd I could overlook the religious stuff because it wasn't too frequent and didn't seem to affect her apparent good sense. So far, so good.
However, as the book progresses, the continuous promises to explain how everything will work in subsequent chapters and the uber-religious references begin to pile up. At 26% through the book, Dave Ramsey references and recommendations are everywhere. The authentic sparkle had evaporated, replaced with the eye-glazing same old same old that comes from not taking responsibility for your own future and attributing every positive outcome to either capitalist group think or that imaginary being in the sky. These people are like automatons running around mindlessly ignoring their own feelings, observations, and lived experiences, in favor of whatever popular Xtian thought restricts them to thinking and doing at the moment. Unfortunately, what started out as a friendly, encouraging, no-nonsense how-to quickly became the same paens to religion and parroted talking points of simply too many financial advice books.
Never yet found a book on the subject that comes close to Elizabeth Warren's All Your Worth (written with her daughter). It is the best, and frankly one of the only ones I've found yet that offers sound, workable advice.
Don't bother with this one. I gave it a two instead of a one because the author writes very well.
However, as the book progresses, the continuous promises to explain how everything will work in subsequent chapters and the uber-religious references begin to pile up. At 26% through the book, Dave Ramsey references and recommendations are everywhere. The authentic sparkle had evaporated, replaced with the eye-glazing same old same old that comes from not taking responsibility for your own future and attributing every positive outcome to either capitalist group think or that imaginary being in the sky. These people are like automatons running around mindlessly ignoring their own feelings, observations, and lived experiences, in favor of whatever popular Xtian thought restricts them to thinking and doing at the moment. Unfortunately, what started out as a friendly, encouraging, no-nonsense how-to quickly became the same paens to religion and parroted talking points of simply too many financial advice books.
Never yet found a book on the subject that comes close to Elizabeth Warren's All Your Worth (written with her daughter). It is the best, and frankly one of the only ones I've found yet that offers sound, workable advice.
Don't bother with this one. I gave it a two instead of a one because the author writes very well.
January 10, 2019
I enjoyed this book and learning about Erin's experiences with financial struggle. I especially liked her views towards poverty as they are Biblical and not political. This read felt a little long to me, maybe because I enjoyed the story part more than the practical how-to part. I also felt that it was a little confusing to follow along with her story because of the non-linear way it jumped around. Overall thankful that I read it.
February 11, 2019
I expected this book to have tips on how to thrive psychologically in the midst of struggling financially and include unique ways of earning extra income. Instead, she recounts her own personal struggle that ended in bankruptcy and suggests the standard strategies: menu planning, used cars, thrift/clearance shopping, gov. assistance, multiple jobs. I think this book will be helpful to people who are new to financial struggles, but I’m a lifer...so no new info here 🤷🏼♀️
September 6, 2017
Please don't look at the title of the book and think this is just another debt pay off 'financially free' how to guide. It is way more than that. This book is a self-help guide, challenge to change your perspective, and beautifully written memoir all in one. Erin Odom is a gifted writer I first discovered through her blog 'The Humbled Homemaker'. This book is laced with her standard 'how to' style articles on things like creating a budget, saving money when shopping, ways to make your family extra income and so much more. Although her ideas are fabulous and her writing style encouraging and easy to understand, this is not why this book received a 5 star rating from me. This book was so much more than self help. If you have ever struggled with finances, Erin's memoir throughout of their years living as the working poor will make you feel heard, accepted, and truly understood. Sometimes when reading books about finances, I feel like he author must not really understand what I am going through. That is not the case with Erin. She eloquently describes breaking down when she couldn't figure out how to put dinner on the table, or if she should sell her wedding china. You watch with a knot in your throat as she applies for food stamps, feeling shame and hope for help all at the same time. You cry tears with her as she files for bankruptcy. Everything you've been through, so has she, and she is emotional and transparent proof that there IS a light at the end of the tunnel. But the biggest part of the book that made me want all of my loved ones and followers to read it - the challenge of a different mindset. There are many points she makes throughout the book but the two mindset shifts that really struck my core are as follows. For one, she challenged the readers to see God's provision in everything. There are 'kisses from Jesus' everywhere in our dark financial days, we just have to look for His provision. The second, brave challenge the book offered was to do away with shame and assumption that using government aid through food stamps, WIC or Medicaid means you are somehow unworthy or cheating the system. Seriously. This book was such a heart wrenching, convicting, and inspiring book that I hope people don't pass it over thinking it's 'just another book on budgeting'. Because it has so much more to offer your financial situation, faith, and heart than that! HIGHLY recommend!!!
October 1, 2017
I felt like this book was a mixed bag for me. I really liked some chapters and other chapters not so much. I love reading finance books! Most of the stuff in this book I had heard before. There were a few tips that I learned. I did like that it was a new perspective. It was so great to hear Erin's story. There is hope no matter where you are in your financial journey!
June 17, 2020
I have followed Erin for a while now and it was nice to hear her and her family’s story. It reminds me that no one starts where they currently are. She shared their story of financial hardship and tough decisions. I appreciate her being so open and transparent about her struggles, specifically with pride. If you have a hard time keeping your head above water financially, or find it hard to ask for help during tough times, or even just want to be more saving savvy, this book is for you. We are on our journey to becoming debt free and Erin’s book is such an encouragement to keep pushing forward and know that God works at all times! Also, I appreciate all the advice and experiences shared!
September 29, 2017
It was refreshing to read about Erin's story. It was the perfect amount of personal revelations, experiences, advise, and resources. I love the fact that she wants to help others see that it is okay to want to be doing better financially and that there's a way to do so.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2018
Great
Such a good read. I would say it will be most encouraging for those with an "income problem" rather than a "spending problem", but either way it's sure to be a blessing to those in the middle of financial frustration. She has such a humble attitude and way of writing.
Such a good read. I would say it will be most encouraging for those with an "income problem" rather than a "spending problem", but either way it's sure to be a blessing to those in the middle of financial frustration. She has such a humble attitude and way of writing.
July 28, 2017
This book will speak wisdom and life into the hearts of anyone who is struggling financially. Erin Odom is able to speak these words because she has been in the trenches and has come out of them full of testimony. Many books that speak of finances are condescending, but this one will open up your eyes to the true struggles of America's working poor and will make you feel less alone. Through Erin's story, I was moved to tears, laughter and closed this book with a renewed resolve to live with an unjudgemental spirit.
This is one you're going to want to read over and over.
This is one you're going to want to read over and over.
February 1, 2019
Very encouraging but lacked real world ways to apply techniques for getting ahead financially.
August 3, 2023
This was inspiring, convicting, and encouraging. I didn't agree with everything she wrote but the basic principles of work hard, be smart, and don't let your pride get in the way of God's provision, were wonderful reminders.
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