Or can I learn just about everything from this website? I just hate to buy the book(s) only to have duplicate information.

There is a lot of information in the Tightwad Gazette that you will only find by reading the book but on the other hand there is a wealth of information right here by our own frugal masters. I would advise checking with your local library and seeing if there is a copy that you can check out to look at and then make your decision about if it is a book that you want to own. :)

Sari - You dont need the TWG to learn frugal tips and tricks, and instead of buying it you can try your public library, some other books I would recommend are: Miserly Moms and Dave Ramsey Total Money Makeover.

There are quite a few more that I have found at my public library and wrote down these tips to always remember I am sure you can find an abundance of info there and here on Frugal Village forums and throughout the site.

It's true, there is lots and lots of info here and other websites too. The internet is a great resource..... On the other hand... the book has stuff that you won't find elsewhere - stories, perspective, tips and tricks, large picture... however, they usually have them at the library. That's more frugal than buying it.

cheers
babs

I love my TWGs. I have the three books. You could check if the library has a copy and then, as Kathy said, decide if you want to buy it.

And you can access the book whenever you need a little frugal hit...I resource mine all of the time. It is my frugal security blanket.

babetteq-your pic puts a smile on my face!

TWG has been a total necessity for me. It helps keep me "focused" when I'm trying to stay on the frugal wagon....when I'm looking for reading material I'm able to pick it up and open it to any page. There's always *something* in that book that didn't pique my interest before, but suddenly becomes a need-to-know (for example: solar cookers). Having it on hand has been a lifesaver.

But do check it out from your library first to give it a trial run :)

Lisa

i first went to the library and read the 2 they had...number one and three....kept borrowing them, over and over again.....then i bought numbers 1-2 from ebay for fairly cheap and just now bought #3..but read them first.....borrow them....to me they are worth it, i read all 3 every season...im in the 3rd now again..

I received my copy as a mother's day gift. True I find a number of things in the book that I can find in other books or on the web, but it is more a "mind-set" thing with me. When I find myself wanting to spend money unnecessarily or things like that, reading this book helps me think "I have the power to do such and such" rather than feeling "I am so broke I can't blah blah blah"

I recommend borrowing the TWG from your library, then if you decide it is a "must have" trying to locate a used copy. I have the "Complete Version", and can not imagine my frugal bookshelf without it.

I just love my complete copy. Some of the info and tips were taken up right away and others didn't really pertain to me right now, but in the future I will need those ideas and tips. I would try to locate one at the library first to check it out. I bought the complete book with all 3 volumes for $13.00, I think of it as an investment.

I bought the complete set full price before I knew better. Can ya tell I didn't know much about being frugal? :D What an eye opener!!! Since I have it I won't ever give it up, such insight and perspective. And like the above poster said, if I had a question on anything I can reference any time.

There is a TON of info here, on the net and at your library. Don't buy something you aren't sure about. If you've got a pretty good handle on being frugal then it may not be a necessity for you. However, if you were like me, frugal novice, I'd highly recommend reading the book (hopefully your library has it).

Just my humble opinion, but I've saved the amount of the book so many times over I consider it one of the best investments I've ever made. I'd buy it again in a heartbeat. *climbs off my soapbox*

I have the Complete TWG on hold at my library. I just need to go pick it up. :)

Just my humble opinion, but I've saved the amount of the book so many times over I consider it one of the best investments I've ever made. I'd buy it again in a heartbeat. *climbs off my soapbox*

I agree with this...its just a great refrerence book to have on hand.

I have the complete set. I loved reading it. It was like reading a letter from one of your girlfriends. I've used it so much for reference too. I've even caught other members of my family reading it also.

I have the CTWG -- 2 copies, actually! -- and I consider it one of my best investments. As already stated, it's excellent reading material, because you can simply open it to any page and learn something you might've forgotten or missed the first time you read through. If you find yourself climbing off the Frugal Wagon, you can always find inspiration to get back on in the TWG.

Now bare in mind, it is NOT for everyone. If you read the reviews of it online, there are a number of people who really don't find it useful. I too would recommend borrowing it from the library or a friend and reading it on your own before purchasing it. I'd hate to see you buy the book and then not like it. :( I myself feel it is an investment -- just the idea of refridgerator stew has saved me the book's worth in grocery money -- but not everyone feels that way.

I have the Complete edition as well and I reread it about every 4-6 months. I always find something new to try.

I recommend previewing it at the library before buying it. I didn't find it that helpful, but that's probably because I was raised very frugally, and there wasn't that much in there that I didn't already know. Just my 2 cents :cents:

I borrowed TWG #2 from the library - I haven't tracked down the 1st or 3rd yet --

I have a spiral notebook for all of my 'frugalish' ideas - I copied all of the recipes & tips from the book into my spiral notebook -

:)

In the back of the book it states that there is a return policy if you are not happy with the book - just save your receipt.

I love all 3 TWG books, but I feel that the first one is really a necessity. I used to give the 'Complete TWG' as a wedding present. You will learn most of what is in the books on the web and on the boards, but that information is in one entertaining resource. I have owned mine since they were first published and read all three at least a couple times a year. They help refocus me when I begin to stray into consumerism. I also think they are great fun. I love Amy's commentary and artwork.

Dolores

I'd buy the book. I have all three paperback books, then I purchased the hardcover Complete Tightwad Gazette. Reading the book really puts you in the mindset of frugality. This site is fine, but once you read the book, you'll understand what I mean. Check out half.com for a good deal on Amy's books.

I'd buy the book. I have all three paperback books, then I purchased the hardcover Complete Tightwad Gazette. Reading the book really puts you in the mindset of frugality. This site is fine, but once you read the book, you'll understand what I mean. Check out half.com for a good deal on Amy's books.

I totally agree-this is the "bible" for frugality. I have all of the original newsletters and the books-I still get encouragement from these all of the time.

here's more feedback on it:
http://www.frugalvillage.com/forums/showthread.php?t=26245

I have all three books. They are packed with great info. and inspiring! Amy is just amazing to me, I wish I could meet her! LOL