5 Simple Books About Money Every Adult Should Read

Learning about money doesn’t have to be complicated. If the thought of budgeting, investing, or planning for retirement makes your eyes glaze over, you’re not alone. But the truth is, financial literacy is one of the most important life skills you can have, and it’s never too late to start.

I believe that learning about money should be approachable, practical, and, dare I say...enjoyable. That’s why I pulled together a list of five simple books about money that make financial literacy accessible for adults at any stage of life.

Whether you’re a parent trying to model good money habits, a young adult figuring out your first budget, or someone who’s just tired of feeling overwhelmed by personal finance, these books are a great place to begin.

1. Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez

This classic book is about redefining your entire relationship with money. Robin and Dominguez ask a bold question: what are you really trading your time for?

By helping you track your spending and understand your values, Your Money or Your Life teaches you how to align your financial choices with what truly matters. It’s ideal for anyone who wants a more meaningful approach to money—one that goes beyond numbers and gets to the heart of your purpose.

2. The Index Card by Helaine Olen and Harold Pollack

The premise is refreshingly simple: everything you need to know about personal finance fits on a single index card. And yes, they actually include a picture of the card in the book.

From paying off debt to saving for retirement, Olen and Pollack walk you through straightforward, no-nonsense advice that works. This is one of the best simple books about money for those who want to avoid jargon and just get to the point. Snag it here if you're interested. 

3. Get Good With Money by Tiffany Aliche

Known as “The Budgetnista,” Tiffany Aliche has become a trusted voice in personal finance thanks to her relatable tone and actionable advice. In Get Good With Money, she introduces a ten-step plan to help readers build a solid financial foundation.

What makes this book special is that it’s not just about money goals, it’s about financial wholeness. From budgeting and credit to estate planning and insurance, Aliche covers the full picture in a way that feels empowering rather than overwhelming.

4. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel

Why do smart people make dumb money decisions? That’s the question Morgan Housel explores in this insightful book that focuses more on mindset than mechanics.

With short, story-driven chapters, The Psychology of Money is one of the most engaging and easy finance books you’ll ever read. It’s perfect for people who want to understand the why behind their money habits, and how emotions, upbringing, and culture all play a role.

5. Money: The True Story of a Made-Up Thing by Jacob Goldstein

Ever wonder where money came from? Jacob Goldstein takes you on a fascinating tour through history, showing how money evolved, and what that means for the future.

This book is a bit more conceptual, but still written in a fun and accessible way. If you’re curious about how society ended up with the financial systems we have today (and what could come next), this is a great addition to your money bookshelf.

Why Start With Simple Finance Books?

When you’re beginning your financial journey, or trying to reset after years of financial frustration, the last thing you need is a 500-page textbook filled with charts and confusing terminology. What you need is clarity. Encouragement. A small win that leads to the next one.

Each of these simple books about money offers that kind of momentum. They break down complex ideas in plain language. They help you take the first step, whether that’s tracking your expenses, thinking about long-term goals, or just realizing that you’re not alone in your struggles with money.

And most importantly, they remind you that financial literacy isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress!

Choose the Book That Speaks to You

If you’ve ever felt like personal finance just wasn’t your thing, I hope this list gives you a place to start. You don’t have to read all five books. Just pick the one that resonates with you and go from there. Whether you’re drawn to psychology, simplicity, stories, or structure, there’s a book here for you.

Money doesn’t have to feel mysterious or stressful. With the right tools and a little bit of guidance, you can feel confident, capable, and in control of your financial future.