The Wealthy Barber Returns by David Chilton

This book reminds me of a bound volume filled with nothing but famous quotes. Instead of providing a cohesive thesis that builds over several sections, The Wealthy Barber Returns is comprised of very short "chapters" (i.e. think between 2 to 5 pages) that contain a wide range of David Chilton's financial ideas. Some of his thoughts are quite interesting, such as the point that people who associate with others in a similar social class spend less money. His views on the wisdom of index funds is also very insightful.

Many other chapters, however, are filled with scattered thoughts that contain folksy and cheesy humour. While the The Wealth Barber is considered a Canadian financial classic, and I fully intend to read it, this "sequel" seems more like a rushed job than a collection of solid analysis.

This book would be perfect for a waiting room in an office or a bathroom, as the chapters are short enough to read in a few minutes. There are also enough good ideas to spark several interesting train of thoughts in a reader. Like a book of quotes, however, this work only scratches the surface. There is no cohesive theme, and many of the profound ideas are only discussed in a superficial manner.

3 1/2 out of 5 stars