The Black Woman's Guide to Financial Independence: Smart Ways Take Charge your Money bld Wealth Achieve Financial Security [Paperback]

Cheryl D. Broussard (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 1, 1996

An investment advisor provides valuable advice to African-American women on how to build financially secure and independent lives, discussing budgets, setting financial goals, how to keep good records, retirement planning, investments, setting up education funds, and more. Reprint.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Broussard, co-owner of a money management firm in Oakland, Calif., believes that black women must learn to handle their finances more effectively to succeed in today's world. Originally self-published, the book walks readers through the basics of personal finance, including setting goals, establishing a budget, buying insurance and saving for retirement. While her financial advice is generally sound and the work sheets helpful, readers may find some of Broussard's generalizations offensive, particularly when she suggests that black women need to "develop savings habits and forgo buying $300 designer handbags" or that "Many parents of middle class Black families have a tendency to shower their children with expensive toys and clothes having a certain status symbol." Two aspects of her financial advice are particularly troubling. She urges readers to invest even a small portion of their portfolios in precious metals or commodities, investments that are too risky for most people. And, since many people consider themselves lucky to get and pay off even one mortgage, it seems unrealistic to assert that "For Black women seeking financial independence, it is essential that you own not only your home but other real estate as well." Clearly intended for those who wish to ally themselves with their community-Broussard urges readers to make charitable contributions only to black organizations-the book will help some people gain an awareness of their finances. But any number of financial primers would serve equally well.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

Boston hosts the syndicated program The Color of Money, publishes the Color of Money Journal and Corporate Detroit magazine, and is a former financial planner. Broussard is a registered investment adviser and a principal in a money management firm; she also lectures and edits an investment newsletter. Both authors agree that the foundation of good money management is to curb credit card abuse and to build net worth through savings and investment programs. Boston, however, succeeds in using statistics and African American history throughout his book to motivate change. He writes fluidly and persuasively, often quoting scripture or African American leaders. He even has a chapter on the special problems of African American women. Broussard, in contrast, has some statistics, but by and large her advice is not tied as closely to African American culture. Certain suggestions are debatable, such as the idea that at some point precious metals belong in a portfolio, and she gets into some nitty-gritty aspects of money management that Boston omits. While these two books cover a lot of the same ground, Boston's is truly excellent. It is highly recommended for public libraries with African American patrons; Broussard's is nonessential but could be bought if demand justifies.
Sue McKimm, Cuyahoga Cty. P.L., Parma, Ohio
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 208 pages
• Publisher: Penguin (Non-Classics); Rep Sub edition (February 1, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0140252835
• ISBN-13: 978-0140252835
• Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 0.4 x 9.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #809,123 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Cheryl has been called a powerhouse in the world of business and personal finance by leading magazines.
Award-winning author, Washington Post best-selling author, magazine and online columnist, writer/producer, and motivational speaker, Cheryl is one of America's leading expert on business and personal finance and CEO of Cheryl Broussard & Co.

Cheryl has written several bestsellers: Sister CEO; What's Money Got To Do With It; How To Make Love and Money Work In Your Relationship, Smart Ways To Take Charge of Your Money, Build Wealth, and Achieve Financial Security. In Addition, she has created Cheryl Broussard's Mind Your Money: The 7 Keys To Your Financial Freedom System. Her latest two books, Starting Over: Fast Cash & Getting Back On Financial Track; The Jet Set Girl's Guide To Building A Million-Dollar Online Empire.

Cheryl has written, co-produced and hosted Ebony's magazine video, Ebony Money Power, Real Estate Wealth Bootcamp, Ms. Money Millionaire ® Financial Bootcamp and The Sister CEO Bootcamp. She is also the former talk show host of Mind Your Money Radio show, sponsored by Bank of America. Cheryl was a major presenter at the Microsoft Business Summit.

Cheryl is a contributing editor to several major magazines. Cheryl is a former personal financial advisor on CNN and CBS Marketwatch.

Cheryl has lectured widely in the United States and International countries. She has been featured in major publication in the United States, such as USA Today, Entrepreneur, Upscale, and Essence.

Cheryl, a Registered Financial Advisor professional, directed the Broussard & Douglas, Inc. Investment Advisory Firm from 1989-1997, which managed $75 million in investment funds.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The book is dynamic, informative and a must for all women, June 25, 1997

By A Customer

This review is from: The Black Woman's Guide to Financial Independence: Smart Ways Take Charge your Money bld Wealth Achieve Financial Security (Paperback)

This book has changed my financial life. After reading this book, I realized all the things I buy myself because I deserve them are because I want them. I am now in the process of building that 25K - 50K savings account. Thanks Ms. Broussar

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Sisters, don't defeat yourselves!, December 7, 2000

By 

Diaspora Chic "diaspora_chic" (Silver Spring, MD) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Black Woman's Guide to Financial Independence: Smart Ways Take Charge your Money bld Wealth Achieve Financial Security (Paperback)

Don't defeat yourselves! This book is helpful for us African-American women who want to take control of their financial future. Waiting for Mr. Right to rescue you from financial instability is self-defeating. You are just putting yourself in deeper debt if you think he'll rescue you. Whether you are married, single, or divorce, this book is for us. Take control of your financial responsibilities.

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Every women should own this book regardless of race!!!, May 26, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: The Black Woman's Guide to Financial Independence: Smart Ways Take Charge your Money bld Wealth Achieve Financial Security (Paperback)

Cheryl Broussard presents logical & easy to follow steps for women to gain financial independence & to build wealth. You are never too young or old to start saving or putting your "financial house" in order. I also would advise buying her other book, Sister CEO.