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Book Review: Did You Buy the American Dream or Does it Own You

About.com Rating 3.5

By LaToya Irby, About.com

In Did You Buy the American Dream, Jean Marie Rhall goes beyond the existence of debt and tells you exactly why you are in debt. She reveals the mindset behind overspending and gives tried-and-true ways to change that mindset.

Overview

Many people realize they're in debt, but can't understand how their finances got in such a state. In the outset of the book, Rhall sets the record straight letting readers know they must end the cycle of overspending if they want to get rid of debt for good.

Did You Buy the American Dream gives the unadulterated reason that a lot of consumers are in debt. "Somewhere along the way we decided we deserved everything, all at once. So we bought it on credit."

The first two chapters seemingly reprimands readers, pushing them to face the reason behind their debt. Rhall then offers ways to get out of debt. Don't expect a step-by-step get-out-of-debt plan. Rather, Rhall gives readers concepts and attitude changes that are needed to get to a debt-free life.

Pros

Using a no-nonsense approach Rhall does a good job of motivating readers to tackle their debts. Did You Buy the American Dream has an inspirational tone that empowers readers to do something about their debt.

Cons

While readers may feel empowered to get out of debt after reading Did You Buy the American Dream, they won't get much practical advice to act on once the final page is turned.
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