Smart Money Starts Here: Recommended Reading for Families And Beginners Ready to Save and Invest

When you’re just starting your financial journey, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the advice out there. Whether you're learning how to save on a tight budget, want to start investing with confidence, or hope to raise financially smart kids, the right book can make all the difference.

This hand-picked list includes beginner-friendly money reads that are practical, inspiring, and easy to understand—perfect for families, parents, and anyone looking to build lasting financial habits.

Saving on a Budget:

1. The No-Spend Year by Michelle McGagh A refreshing look at cutting out the non-essentials and finding joy in what you already have. Great motivation if you're trying to reset your spending habits.

2. The Minimalist Budget by Simeon Lindstrom Simple, actionable steps for those who feel overwhelmed by budgeting. It’s a short, helpful read for beginners.

3. Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin & Joe Dominguez This classic helps readers rethink their relationship with money and build a more intentional life on a budget.

Teaching Kids About Money

4. The Opposite of Spoiled by Ron Lieber Written by a New York Times money columnist, this book is packed with advice on how to talk to kids about money, values, and giving.

5. Smart Money Smart Kids by Dave Ramsey & Rachel Cruze A step-by-step guide for parents to teach kids about money from an early age. Covers saving, spending, giving, and avoiding debt.

6. Make Your Kid a Money Genius (Even If You're Not) by Beth Kobliner Backed by research and written in plain language, this book offers age-by-age strategies to raise financially competent children.

Investing for Beginners

7. The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins A no-fluff guide to long-term investing, especially geared toward people who are new to the world of stocks and retirement planning.

8. Broke Millennial Takes On Investing by Erin Lowry Perfect if you're intimidated by investing. It explains key terms and strategies in a friendly, relatable voice.

9. I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi (2nd Edition) While not solely about investing, this book offers a full system for budgeting, saving, and investing—especially for readers in their 20s and 30s.

For the Whole Family

10. Money Rules by Jean ChatzkyA quick, digestible book with 94 simple rules that are perfect for teaching both adults and teens about smart money decisions.

11. The Total Money Makeover by Dave RamseyA step-by-step plan that helps families get out of debt, start saving, and build financial peace—even on a modest income.

All great options to checkout! Either buy for repeat reading or see if they're at your local library.

*recommendations include affiliate links, at no extra cost to you!

Thank you for reading!