"The Two-Income Trap" - the book

[tink]

The author of "Maxed Out" cited this author (Elizabeth Warren) and her book several times. Anyone else cracked it?

She discusses the dramatic increase in bankruptcy claims which have coincided with more women working full-time outside the family home. Not the usual blame the victim approach. Interesting perspectives regarding the choices some families have made which leave them living on the brink.

Great so far!

[Emerald_Mommy]

I read that book a few years ago. While she had some interesting points I mostly disagreed with her conclusions. It is not always necessary for a family to have two wage earners. She seems to say that people want the wife to work in order for them to qualify for a larger mortgage (more house) so they can live in a "nice" neighborhood and their children can go to the "right" schools. I agree that these are important considerations but I disagree that anyone is forced to make the choice for a two-income family. Every family has to decide for themselves. And it is a choice. It may require sacrifice or giving up some things but many of us decide to stay home with our children, realizing of course, that not everyone will decide that way.

As I said, it was a while ago that I read the book so I may not be remembering it clearly but that's the impression I came away with.