Orman's fifth major book has perfect timing. As many Americans grapple with unemployment, diminished 401(k)s, crumbling stock market holdings and seemingly insurmountable debt, the bright-eyed and bushy-tailed financial sage comes to the rescue, offering this guide to understanding some of the most basic principles of money. In her signature charismatic style, Orman (The 9 Steps to Financial Freedom; The Road to Wealth; etc.) lays out "simple truths that will help you to be okay no matter what happens in your financial life." These laws are essentially common sense standards, certainly reminiscent of phrases from the author's previous books yet still undeniably powerful. For example, law number one, "truth creates money, lies destroy it," rings with simplicity while teaching a mighty rule about staying true to oneself and not embellishing to disillusion oneself or others. Each law is described in a separate chapter, with examples from Orman's life and several everyday folk. Indeed, readers will see themselves in these stories, and they, coupled with Orman's reality-based financial advice, will help make solutions clear for many. A guide included in the book allows readers to reflect on their financial past, order their priorities, organize savings plans and more. This is a shining example of Orman's now-perfected holistic approach to nuts-and-bolts economics. Agent, Amanda Urban. (Feb. 24)
Forecast:With a coast-to-coast bus tour; print, transit and TV ads; and an upcoming PBS special based on the book, this one is guaranteed to hit lists. Orman will be profiled in next week's issue of
PW as part of the Innovators series.
