Money and Finance Field Guide: A How-To Book on Earning, Saving, and Spending Money
(Time for Kids)

From the basics of bartering to the digital age of cryptocurrency, this guide introduces the principles of earning, saving, spending, investing, and philanthropy. Every chapter works independently, with clearly defined vocabulary words in sidebars that help reinforce key concepts. The book's introduction instructs readers to grab a pencil and get involved answering the questions on the many activity pages featured at the end of each chapter. Included are anecdotes from real kids that offer relatable examples. The diversity in the names and faces in these stories adds meaningful representation and broadens the book's appeal. Thoughtful tips aimed at adult readers promote collaborative teaching moments. One of the book's most appealing features is its inclusion of entertaining and sometimes surprisingly wise quotes from well-known figures like Mark Twain and Lady Gaga, adding flavor and fun. However, the book's reliance on dated stock photos reduces its visual appeal. The investing chapter is already dated, given the current volatility in financial markets. The lack of a glossary or index is another minus for those doing research who need quick reference tools. VERDICT This guide supports foundational financial literacy in an approachable way. However, its consumable format and workbook nature make it a poor fit for most libraries.

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