ROSS Reviews: “The Wealthy Barber Returns”, by Dave Chilton

I knew of Dave even before he published the Wealthy Barber – and I always admired (and perhaps was jealous) that he had taken an age old saw and made it into a million selling book

It was perfect for the times, because the mutual fund industry at that time was relatively nascent, and the banks were about to step in and get involved, and returns of 12 to 15% were in fact ‘the norm’ back then. The industry was ripe to grow massively.

The book was a great stocking stuffer, and I suspect more copies were given away by financial industry folks than were actually sold to individuals – but no matter – it was great and full marks to Dave.

From time to time I have gone back and read the book again, as I am sure Dave has, and perhaps he winces at the folksy narrative – but back then it worked and worked really well. (Lots of references to the Blue Jays who were very relevant culturally at the time)

That said, the new book is hands down a better book than the first. Dave has really grown into his skin as a personal finance expert, while losing none of his razor sharp insight or wit.

He is assured another best seller, just by virtue of who he is, and the phenomenal success of his first book. (Does anyone actually recall the name of the follow up book to The DaVinci Code written by Dan Brown?)

But in this case, although it is well nigh impossible, Dave’s new book deserves greater glory and sales than his first. Well done!

I was inspired to write the above when Robb Engen of Boomer and Echo fame, posted a review today of Dave’s new book called The Wealthy Barber Returns. Already some respected media types have written glowing reviews of the book – here are a few.

Rob Carrick of The Globe and Mail wrote this piece.

And here is Robb Engen’s take on the new book.

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