Readers who have previously chided my ocassionally crass language, hold back. This post is not intended for minors or the faint at heart.
I couldn’t resist grabbing “Bitches on a Budget” from my patient stack of books waiting for a review. But does the book has as much sass as the title? Yes.
Rosalyn Hoffman opens her 322-page book with this essential question. How do you live a stylish life during the greatest economic downturn of your generation? No matter that the recession is technically over. Budget woes continue. And women rule the pocketbook. Here’s how Chapter 1 starts:
Bitches, we’re going to let you in on a secret: Women might only make $.78 for every $1 men make, but we’re the ones who drive the economy. We’re the ones who decide what to buy and when to buy it. You think we’re kidding? Just turn on the television. It’s talking to you, bitch. And even when it’s not – Rogaine and boner pills – it’s still about you!
Rosalyn gives budgeting a good name (it’s just another way to say edit, really), and attempts to do the same for what seems to be her favorite b-word. She writes about shopping, grooming, staying healthy, mental health, travel, cars, entertainment, entertaining and home decorating, food, and pets in her over-the-top girlfriend no you di-ent hand-waving, finger-snapping voice.
In other words, she makes saving money really entertaining. What more can you ask for?
Comment on this post for a chance to win my review copy. Or, you can pick it up at Amazon for $10.20 (orig. $15).





January 13th, 2010 at 1:30 pm
Now that sounds like some fun reading with a bonus attached!
January 13th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
That’s sounds like my cup of tea. I am excited to read more.
I get so excited over saving money.
January 13th, 2010 at 1:36 pm
I’m buying mine now, sounds like a good read…thanks
January 13th, 2010 at 1:43 pm
LOL, there are days when this would sound like the perfect pick me up…..with some added frugal tips. A perfect combination!
January 13th, 2010 at 1:45 pm
The people who read your posts are supposedly grown up and should be able to handle occasional rough language. Thanks for the review on what sounds like a wonderful book
January 13th, 2010 at 1:49 pm
She may be, um, a little over the top in her writing, but I suspect her advice will be down to earth. Who says econ has to be boring?
January 13th, 2010 at 1:53 pm
This book sounds great! I do not like talking about saving money, but this looks like it would push me to. It also reminds me of the Becky Bloomwood character from “Confessions of a Shopaholic”, in which writes for a money magazine use catchy language and relating it to real people.
January 13th, 2010 at 1:59 pm
sounds great Ive another one champage taste of a beer budget cant remember author anyone remember it anyway frugal bitch from even my teen years looking forward to a frugal book with a senase of humor! love her style! Greetings from a frugal babe! Me!
January 13th, 2010 at 1:59 pm
This book sounds like a “Winner”!!!
The Lady sounds like a comedian, with skills!
January 13th, 2010 at 2:00 pm
Sounds interesting! I hate thinking about money but this sounds like a fun book. Maybe it will change my mind.
January 13th, 2010 at 2:02 pm
This book sounds fun compared to the same old same old that’s out there nowadays on budgeting. Can’t wait to read it! Thanks!
January 13th, 2010 at 2:35 pm
Love it . . . teach me how to be a bitch!!
January 13th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
I am tired of the “same ‘ol, same ‘ol” budget book. I am thinking this one might inspire me
January 13th, 2010 at 3:13 pm
sound interesting… would like to check it out. thanks
January 13th, 2010 at 3:16 pm
That sounds hilarious!! I’d love to be entered to get your review copy!
It’s about time budgeting got some sass!!
January 13th, 2010 at 3:31 pm
This sounds great! Not that I’m a person with an attitude, but it really seems like Rosalyn gets down to business…which is exactly what I like and I’m looking for in a budgeting book!
January 13th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
No that’s what I’m talking about. It definitely grabbed my attention to want to read more.
January 13th, 2010 at 5:10 pm
Love the title! would love to win this
January 13th, 2010 at 5:18 pm
would love a chance at this book
January 13th, 2010 at 7:06 pm
This sounds like a book that I would like to read! Thanks for the chance!
January 13th, 2010 at 7:54 pm
Can’t wait to read this one!
January 13th, 2010 at 8:47 pm
This sounds like a book that I would read cover to cover in one sitting! Would love the opportunity.
January 13th, 2010 at 9:48 pm
This book sounds AMAZING! Definitely something I need in my attempt to be a savvy law student. Would love a chance to win this.
January 13th, 2010 at 10:28 pm
Right on! Can’t wait to read it.
January 13th, 2010 at 11:08 pm
Sounds funny and informative. I’m adding to my already long list of books I should read. Thanks for the review.
January 13th, 2010 at 11:44 pm
An entertaining way to learn how to spend smarter is what I need to start the year off right. Can’t wait to check it out of my local library
January 14th, 2010 at 7:03 am
This book sounds great. I would love to pick up a copy.
January 14th, 2010 at 8:43 am
I can’t wait to check this book out!!!
January 14th, 2010 at 9:02 am
why couldn’t i email to friend???
January 14th, 2010 at 9:17 am
Sounds cool, I love saving money.
January 14th, 2010 at 9:56 am
CAN WAIT TO GET MY COPY THIS WEEKEND.
January 14th, 2010 at 10:00 am
This book seems like an interesting read particularly for this young lady.
January 14th, 2010 at 10:34 am
Chitown Joe, Please email your friend a link to this post so they can comment for a chance to win my review copy! Thanks.
January 14th, 2010 at 10:48 am
Rosalyn’s book sounds funny, informative and a riveting read. I’ve always been frugal, and I’d love more tips. Hope I win it!
January 14th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
Sounds like she has an engaging voice as a writer, but what did you think of her advice? Was it useful? Or is it all style and little substance?
January 14th, 2010 at 12:31 pm
Looks like the offended few have taken to the hills, as the rest of us seem to want this book. Count me in!
January 14th, 2010 at 1:30 pm
I’ve always been a bitch (thank you my female dog is beautiful)and I’ve always tried to work within a reasonable budget. However having 3 boys, ok 4 with husband, it is sometimes trying. Cant wait to read! Woo hoo!
January 14th, 2010 at 5:08 pm
I would love this book. Love the site. Im a newbie!
January 15th, 2010 at 11:46 am
If I don’t win book will buy it and present it to my wife. She doesn’t like to read your column because it is a wake up call to her obsession with clothes shopping. Triplicate of everything with tags still on clothes not worn. P.S. -She loves to read
January 15th, 2010 at 1:51 pm
This sounds like it is up my alley. Thanks for sharing!
January 16th, 2010 at 11:52 am
Book sounds fantastic…just the thing for me to read right now. new job, new title – no raise. ugh.
January 22nd, 2010 at 2:32 pm
sounds like a great book!