Through anecdotes about real women, she sheds light on common financial pitfalls and offers solutions to avoid and overcome them. Stories of women who struggled to pay off credit card debt, let their partners control their finances, and let fear keep them from taking financial risks serve as a springboard for Keehn to discuss things like budgeting, investing, tax shelters and financial planning.
While anyone can benefit from these takeaways, Keehn wrote this book for women. Why? In Canada, women control a third of the country’s financial assets, and this figure is set to increase. Yet younger generations are taking less initiative when it comes to finances. And, as Keehn recounts, when women take less initiative with their finances, repercussions can ensue. For example, two-thirds of women whose partner is the primary breadwinner feel trapped.
With relatable stories and a heavy dose of non-judgmental wisdom from Keehn, readers will become more aware of their financial missteps and more empowered to take control of their financial future.—Courtney Reilly-Larke
Poor House No More by Romana King
houndstooth press; softcover $13.99, e-book $8.99
Romana King is the friend you wish you had when buying a house, repairing, or really anything involving money and your home. In her new book, she looks like a cool, calm confidante who’s been there, done that.
In a nutshell, the book is about the value of your home. King explains that it’s not just about listing price, rebuilding price or even market value. She tells us how a home can be a long-term investment, if you look at the numbers: from bidding wars to down payment funds (what she calls saving for a down payment) to insurance, repairs, utility costs and debt management. . It’s a lot, but that’s what makes Poor House No More a helpful guide for first-time home buyers or even those higher up the real estate ladder.
Essentially, King gives you the long-term picture and puts all costs into perspective. Need a new roof? The quotes are big enough to make you question home ownership. But all of these big expenses (and the little ones too) are all about growing and maintaining the value of your home. After reading the book, I already feel more confident talking to entrepreneurs.
The key, however, is the numbers. King gives current average costs for everything. All. Thing. This book will be a resource for years to come.—you will just need to update the numbers.—Lisa Hannam