The Brainwashing of the American Investor - More Book Reviews Volume 3

I have read this book several times through, taking notes as I read. I love the writing style. It certainly makes you think. I have to laugh at my own experiences with the different brokers I have dealt with over the years. Mr. Selengut's methodology makes good sense. It is one of those, "I can't believe I hadn't thought of this before" scenarios. Anon e-mail post. (02/10/04)

Just finished reading your book and I loved it, especially the comments about accountants of which I happen to be one. I am interested in obtaining the "Starter Kit" you mentioned at the end of your book. Rob C, CA (4/29/04)

I just wanted to thank you for the wonderful and very helpful book. I found a wealth of knowledge in it. P. G., Florida (10/27/03)

After reading your book on investing, I haven't felt the need to read another. To your credit. Cheers. E. F., Wayland, MA (10/06/03)

You make more sense than anyone I think I've ever heard, and I work in the investments division of my company. M. E., Scottsdale, AZ, (10/04/03)

Worked for me! (Mark S., Norwalk, CT, 01/26/03)

On April 29, 2002, having finished "The Brainwashing of the American Investor", I liquidated some mutual funds, and for the first time in my life purchased some individual stocks. Since then (one of the worst periods in the stock market since World War II) -- using nothing other than "Brainwashing" for guidance -- I've bought and sold 24 individual stocks profitably, increasing the value of my portfolio by 9.9%. My remaining mutual funds have plummeted.

As the author makes clear, this isn't a get-rich-quick scheme; a cookbook approach to buying stocks that you can follow mindlessly on the way to a guaranteed retirement. He describes a strategy that will consistently generate profits, year in and year out, whether the market is on its way up or on its way back down.

I was skeptical at first, but now I'm extremely comfortable working with the author's method. I rarely spend more than 30 minutes per day on activities relating to the market. All I can say now is that, for me, everything the author predicted panned out and I'm way better off than if I'd left all my money in those mutual fund turkeys.

If you're not satisfied with how your portfolio has been doing, or if you simply want to get control over your own financial destiny, my suggestion is that you read "The Brainwashing of the American Investor", work with some seed money for six months to a year, and see what happens. As I say, it worked for me.

Steve Selengut really knows his stuff. Follow his system and watch your net worth GROW for a change! L J, Scottsdale AZ

Hats off to Steve for a treasure load of info....definitely a 'small investment' for a much bigger payout down the road! (08/04/03)

Courage to go against the pack will make you a success!!!, S. M. from Virginia Beach, VA July 15, 2003

Your book is great...gives me the edge that I need to
be successful in my goal to retire @ 55.Thanks for helping people keep their hard earned money" (S.Y., Los Angeles, CA, 09/25/03)

Reviewed by: Dr. Paul Adams, Professor Emeritus, Ramapo College, (10/28/02)

I read your book...found it original, provocative; you have made a contribution.

I wish this book had been written fifty years ago. I am eighty-three years old and would have planned my investment life much differently B. B. Tewkesbury, MA (09/03/03)

Since I made my first stock purchase on April 24, 2002, as of today I've made 106 stock purchases and sold 86 of them, all except four at a profit. Although its a little hard to calculate the profit percent because I've intermittently added more money to the account, it's somewhere in the range of 27% over the eighteen month period. Considering that I made my first purchase near the beginning of what I've heard described as "the worst period for the stock market since WWII," and considering that before I'd read your book I had never purchased an individual stock in my life, I'd say that ain't bad. M. S. (11/04/03)

PLUS  MORE  ratings at Amazon.com!

Hands down; right on the money! A reader from Mahwah, NJ, July 13, 2003

What an eye opener...thanks! M. I., Merrimack, NH (08/29/03)

finished your book.  I am impressed. ( Patricia, 03/12/03)

This book is one of the best this reader has attempted. Mr. Selengut’s casual approach, writing style and explanations provide a pleasant learning experience. Though written by an expert in his field, the author offers his experience and lessons in a way even a financial illiterate can understand. Money Management won’t be nearly so confusing to the everyday investor after they have finished this thorough study of the investment world and how to conquer it."

"This book explains guidelines and strategies, portfolios, funds, trading, diversification, day trading, and everything in between in a language and style that is both informative and understandable. How the average investor can minimize risks, the difference between stockbrokers and investment advisors… it’s all here, in one easy ‘tutorial’ if you will. What to watch for, how to protect your investments, and how to control it all." Reviewed by: Author/Writer, Denise M. Clark

Great book, great ideas.  Rich L, TMC, 01/24/03)

PS - the book was great!    anonymous, 10/15/02

BUY THIS BOOK...and read it ...until the message sinks in!

Reviewed By: T S, NAIC Chapter Board of Directors

"Received your book and had trouble putting it down. WOW, what an eye opener. I neglect, so often, to ask my financial advisor why he recommends certain investments. I used to follow blindly & sometimes still do. Thanks for your book. I hope NAIC is smart enough to use it. I think every member should read it." (01/30/03)