"The term frugal has many meanings, each of which conjures different perspectives."

The term "frugal" has many meanings, each of which conjures different perspectives. For example, for some of us, if you are "thrifty", it automatically follows you are cheap. The nickname "el cheapo" is very often used to describe someone who looks for bargains. However, is this necessarily valid, particularly when you consider that some individuals practicing similar techniques are often called good money managers?

After you read Shel Horowitz's book THE PENNY-PINCHING HEDONIST: HOW TO LIVE LIKE ROYALTY WITH A PEASANT'S POCKETBOOK, you are definitely convinced that in order to enjoy life it is not how much a person earns that is important, it is how they manage and spend their earnings. Furthermore, once you get over the "what will people think" syndrome you are on your way to applying many of Horowitz's suggestions as to how to have fun and live well without going into hock.

Horowitz provides his readers with a humongous amount of cost saving tips related to a variety of subjects such as: entertainment, food, children, travel, shopping, gifts, and dating. In all likelihood, if you take his advice on any one of his suggestions, you would immediately recoup the cost of the book.

I even found humorous his advice on how to eat wisely at a salad bar and buffet in order to get the most bang for your buck.

We are told: "we should first scout out the whole bar and go for the heavy, expensive goodies at the back. Make a wall with these along the outside of your plate, and then fill the center with squishy items. Now you can pile the veggies and dressing on top, leaving you with a salad to eat first and a substantial potluck main course underneath." You have to admit Horowitz's approach is ingenious!

Another area where we tend to believe that spending more will ultimately result in greater satisfaction is entertainment. However, here again we are apprised of the many cost saving techniques that will permit us to enjoy entertainment that are well within our means. You will be surprised that many educational institutions, libraries, community theatres and local music groups located within a few miles from your home provide lectures, concerts, theatre, and other kinds of entertainment throughout the year. In most instances the cost for admission is minimal and many a time free. All you have to do is call the institution and ask them to put you on their mailing list.

Although the book was published in 1995, most of the advice and principles are still timely. I am looking forward to an updated version of the book that will include web site references.

Reviewed by Norman Goldman
Posted November 12, 2002