In writing Thriving in Sex Work: Sex Work and Money, I read dozens of personal finance books. This blog series consists of reviews of books I think sex workers could benefit from. I’m aware, however, that nearly all personal finance books aren’t geared towards the specific issues sex workers face. So I’ve done my best to provide a down-and-dirty roadmap of what to expect— the good and the bad, and why I think any particular book might be useful to you.

The Art of Money: A Life-Changing Guide to Financial Happiness by Bari Tessler

I recommend this book to: Everyone. 

Because: One of the very best books I’ve read on the emotional life of money. However—see trigger warnings below.

Action Verbs: Having, Valuing, Spending, Balancing one’s checkbook.

Key Takeaways: Money Story. Connecting somatics to money management. Negotiating money values with life partner. 

Heartfelt to Practical Ratio:  5/1

Strengths: Read through the lens of sex work, some of the most direct and accessible language to connect to the way money makes us feel. 

Trigger warnings: Part money memoir, you will learn a lot about Bari: bougie, and her personal shares can get repetitive. Written by a heavily partnered person; anyone feeling disconnected from family or otherwise alone in the world should use self-care.

Learn more at: baritessler.com