Book Review: The Quarterlifer's Companion
Authors: Abby Wilner and Catherine Stocker
Publisher: McGraw-Hill
ISBN: 0-07-145015-7
$16.95 / softcover
www.quarterlifecrisis.com

If you are a recent college graduate and trying to make it on your own, this book is a good place to start. I honestly don't think I've seen another book on the topic that is quite this comprehensive.

Some of the topics covered in this book include:
* Managing credit cards and debt
* Understanding insurance & benefits
* Choosing the best housing
* Looking for another job while currently employed
* Dating relationship issues
* Making healthy nutrition and exercise choices

One of the things that I appreciated the most about this book is the fact that it is filled with stories from other "quarterlifers", which gives the book a conversational tone. There are lots of excellent pointers from "the experts", but the anecdotes bring it to life and keep it from sounding preachy.

Another thing that I really liked about this book was the "practical" information. For example, I didn't expect this book to go into so much detail on insurance, benefits, and rental contracts. But I think many new grads will find that this kind of information will help them to approach unfamiliar aspects of their new, more independent lifestyle with confidence.

Finally, one other feature that I appreciated was the "Resources" section at the end of each chapter. Since the authors cover such a variety of topics in the book, the resource section seems to be a helpful way for readers to get more detailed information about a particular topic should they need it.

This 325 page book is divided into four main sections: Life, Work, Play, and Self. The sections on "Play" and "Self" cover things like maintaining friendships, making time for extracurricular interests, and staying healthy. The authors provide healthy recipes and grocery shopping tips, too.

The Quarterlifer's Companion would make a great graduation or holiday gift for anyone who has recently finished school or started a new chapter in their life.

Readers, have you read this book? Feel free to share your comments in our Post College Forum.