The first American book on personal finance, The Way to Wealth by Benjamin Franklin is still the best and wisest money book ever written. Originally published in 1758 as the preface to Poor Richard's Almanack, this little gem has been through innumerable printings and sold millions of copies to those in search of smart but entertaining advice about hard work, earning and saving, money and debt. As the 21st century charges along, and the current economic climate continues to send out mixed messages, Franklin's simple but wise commentary on the value of industry and frugality resonates as much for us today as it did for listeners nearly 350 years ago. Here is a sample:
"Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise."
"If you would be wealthy, think of saving, as well as of getting."
"If you would have your business done, go; if not, send."
"Think what you do when you run into debt; you give to another power over your liberty."
"Creditors have better memories than