by Ann Kendall
Sometime in the past several years you might’ve seen Richard hunched over his laptop at the Java Bean on Avalon Way in West Seattle, perhaps deeply engaged in conversation with other regulars about local economics. What you wouldn’t know from the casual glance across the top of his screen or an overheard tidbit about money matters was that he was in the midst of writing his recently published book, Effortless Savings: A Step-by-Step Guidebook to Saving Money without Sacrifice, full of practical ways to save money (or not spend) that don’t feel like suffering.
Richard grew up in New York in a family that enjoyed the thrill of the deal – from the best deals on household items to steals on family vacations. He learned, with the guidance of his mom and extended family, how to locate off-price stores along with bargaining skills that served him well through his youth and into adulthood. He jokingly refers to his family affectionately as “frugal maniacs,” while at the same time he emphasizes that he never felt like he went without the niceties of life growing up. These life lessons form the core of Effortless Savings.
The book eases readers through chapters that focus on modern items considered essential from how to obtain discounted mobile phone and internet services, prescriptions, groceries and auto maintenance. He lists out tips and ideas for each area covered and challenges readers to dig deeper to find their own discounts through a variety of means. Richard’s website www.effortlesssavings.com creates a one-stop location for conversation and tips from readers. And his family, they couldn’t be more thrilled to see their own advice and lessons come to life in print. The book is available in print and electronic versions, details available on the website, along with upcoming signing and appearance information.