What can I say about this book that hasn’t already been said? This is the best written and most widely read financial planning book of all time. It’s also turned into a tv program, it was that successful. Well, I suppose I could brag that I’ve met the author a number of times (he lives locally) or that I own my autographed copy that Mr. Chilton gave me. 
Anyway - I read this book cover to cover when it was first released well over a decade ago. The book is still a vital read today for anyone - investors, actuaries, consumers, even insurance agents and financial planners. The reason it’s such a great book is that it’s chock full of fabulous and grounded advice for everyone. The reason it’s been so wildly successful is because it’s actually delightfully readable. It’s an easier read than a pocket novel. I can personally guarantee you’ll enjoy this book no matter what your background - and you can read it knowing that the author David Chilton is really as nice and down to earth as the characters in his book.
The Wealthy Barber is the story of a common sense barber who’s spent his time learning about financial planning. In the book he relays this information on to a number of customers who come in once a month for a haircut. Each haircut is a different lesson, one on mutual funds, one on life insurance, and so on. The story is told in the first person, by one of the guys who’s in getting his haircut (his successful sister is also along for the lessons, so there’s no ‘guy’s barber shop’ atmosphere to the book).
Title: The Wealthy Barber, by David Chilton, CFP. ISBN 0761513116
Rating: 6 Stars out of 5.
Who should buy this book? Absolutely everyone. If you’re a consumer, there’s a wealth of knowledge you’ll be able to ingest without dozing. For financial planners or industry experts, it’s a good dose of back to basics.