Book excerpt: Fiddling with family finances can be time-consuming, frustrating, or even frightening . . . especially when you feel like you're not qualified to make those big money decisions. But here's an expert who says that you can learn everything you need to know to effortlessly manage money in just a few hoursand then stay on top of it all in only minutes a year. InLife or Debt, Stacy Johnson gave you a one-week plan for freeing yourself from the tyranny of debt. Now the creator and host of the nationally syndicated news seriesMoney Talkstakes it a step further with a complete system to manage every facet of your financial life that's remarkably quick and easy. Get your finances organized once and for all Learn to set goals, then achieve them Discover the only three investments you need, whether you have $50 or $50 million A logical way to invest that really works An asset allocation system so simple, all you need to know is your age Quick, effective, and inexpensive ways to plan your estate, income taxes, and retirement Understand every type of insurance and learn how to shop for it How, why, when, and where to buy real estate Why spend your hard-earned paycheck on so-called experts when you can manage your money yourselfand save and invest every penny? Here is everything you need to know to get on top of your family's finances and stay there. The clock is ticking: It's time to take control. From the Trade Paperback edition.