If you, like most people, have not seriously considered what steps you should take for planning your finances and are now planning on buying a house, getting married or having children, you will do well to read David Chilton's book 'The Wealthy Barber'.

It will not matter if you have never heard of a mutual fund or even balanced your checkbook. If dry financial reading is not up your alley, you will STILL find 'the Wealthy Barber' easy reading. It will have you fluent in financial planning in weeks.

The key to David Chilton's success with his book is that it is written as a story, rather than a manual. You follow three 30ish individuals as they build their financial houses from scratch. They get their information from one of the most knowledgeable and financially secure individuals in town - the barber.

The gem of this story lies in the fact that the barber shows how income is not the biggest factor in planning for financial prosperity - proper planning is. And you can have your own finances in order by reading and applying the tasks he assigns his 'students' while they visit for their monthly trim.

'The Wealthy Barber' has been favorably commented on by newspapers and financial reviewers because it does not stress budget or a reduced standard of living. It is these steps which often sabotage the best intentions of individuals. The sooner the methods are applied, the easier it will be to see their effects while maintaining your lifestyle, but it is always better to start now than not start at all.

'The Globe and Mail' calls 'The Wealthy Barber' "...a perfect gift for young couples trying to live comfortably and save money in an increasingly tough world". Is that not a gift worth receiving?

'The Wealthy Barber' will show you how to plan for your retirement, save for large purchases or future needs, invest, protect your family and avoid being victimized by financial blunders by exposing some financial products and services which you may not need, but are sure to be sold.

Although the story is set in a Canadian town, the general methods and training provide a valuable education in personal financial planning.

Having a clear understanding of your financial situation and preparing a plan is no longer a mystery. Although some decisions require the guidance of an expert, arming yourself with the right questions and basic knowledge will ensure your best financial outcome.

In today's world financial education is often sorely lacking. Taking steps to educate yourself, and pass that education on to your children will protect your family and provide an abundance whether you are current millionaires or not.