Sam and Rob Fatzinger, parents of 14, authored “A Catholic Guide To Spending Less and Living More,” sharing their journey of raising a large family with a focus on budgeting and saving. This review explores the book’s strengths and areas for improvement, providing insights into how its financial advice aligns with Catholic values.
The Fatzingers aim to share their successful strategies for achieving financial freedom and debt-free living, hoping to inspire readers to improve their lives by spending less. Their book provides practical financial advice applicable to anyone, regardless of family size. Sam’s chapters offer an inviting perspective, while Rob’s provide a direct, no-nonsense approach. Together, they offer a valuable resource for couples at any stage of marriage.
The book shines when the authors share their personal experiences managing finances within a large family. Anecdotes from their older children illustrate the benefits of the “Fatzinger way” of life. However, more in-depth information would be beneficial. For instance, while a second job is suggested as a solution for financial needs, the authors don’t elaborate on whether they pursued this option, or the impact it had on their family dynamics.
While the reader is keen to understand how the Fatzingers managed to raise a large family on a single income, the book focuses more on prescribing actions rather than detailing the specific steps they took. A deeper dive into their financial strategies and day-to-day management would be more impactful.
The book could also benefit from a clearer explanation of the motivations behind their choices. Why did they desire a large family? Was it rooted in a religious belief in accepting children as a gift from God? The book alludes to these reasons but lacks explicit discussion. A stronger connection to Catholic teachings would enrich the reader’s understanding of their “Fatzinger way.”
The explicit Catholic element is subtle, lacking explicit references to Catholic Church traditions, beliefs, or values. While the authors mention the support they received from their church community, this could apply to any faith community. A more detailed account of the support a large family needs from a Catholic parish would be valuable.
Rob provides a theological foundation for the book on page 155, stating that budgeting “is (or should be) an expression of our faith… a deep-rooted desire to please him and pick up our crosses in everything we do.” Highlighting this concept earlier and more consistently throughout the book would provide readers with a better understanding of the “Fatzinger way” and its underlying values.
Despite these points, “A Catholic Guide to Spending Less and Living More” offers valuable insights for young couples or anyone seeking to improve their financial management skills. It acts as a good starting point for further exploration of debt-free Catholic living. The publisher’s website provides additional resources, although these were not reviewed. Ideally, a more comprehensive book detailing the Fatzinger family’s story would be highly beneficial.
In conclusion, “A Catholic Guide to Spending Less” provides practical advice on budgeting and saving, enhanced by the Fatzinger’s unique experience of raising a large family. While it could benefit from a stronger emphasis on Catholic teachings and more detailed personal anecdotes, it remains a helpful resource for those seeking financial guidance rooted in faith-based values. Consider it a stepping stone to a more financially responsible and faith-filled life.
