Another Review at MyShelf.Com

Publisher: HarperCollins/Perennial 
Release Date:  September 2003
ISBN: 0-06-057776-2 
Awards:  
Format Reviewed: Trade Paperback 
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Genre: Nonfiction/Biography 
Reviewed: 2003
Reviewer:  Beverly J. Rowe
Reviewer Notes:  www.savekaryn.com/

Save Karyn
One Shopaholic's Journey to Debt and Back
By Karyn Bosnak 


     This fascinating, funny biography of Karyn Bosnak and her foray into the world of credit card debt along with her unique solution is highly entertaining.

     Karen landed a job as producer for a new television talk show and moved to New York from the midwest. She was enamored by the name brands sold in the fine department stores and the designer boutiques, and she was absolutely certain that she shouldn't be seen more than once in an outfit. She delighted in trying all of the wonderful restaurants listed in her new guide book, too. New York is wonderful...but expensive.

      When Karyn begins to realize that her spending has exceeded her income and that she is deeply in debt, she comes up with several ways to cope with the problem. "Buy today and return the merchandise tomorrow" doesn't actually solve the problem, but it gives her a little time before the credit card company gets serious about collections. Bounced checks also give her a little time. But when she loses her job for the second time and is unable to find another good paying job, Karyn begins to realize that her spending is an addiction that she must get control of.

     Her friend advises her to take out an ad...and she does, but in the form on an Internet webpage asking for help. This unique idea caught the attention of the media, and when she even appeared on the Today Show, the idea snowballed. Along with donations from well-wishers, selling her collection of name brand goodies on ebay, and enrolling in a debt consolidation program, Karyn began the long road to changing her lifestyle.

     Although Karyn got out of debt, she still maintains her website. It combines a witty and compelling plea for donations, and lists of worthy causes as recipients for your donations. It is entertaining, and you can have your cause listed there! A genuine American success story, Karyn in an inspiration to all. The idea probably won't work for everyone; it worked for Karyn because it caught the media attention and it was a unique plea for help.

     Everyone who is hopelessly in debt will find this book laced with ideas you can use, and for everyone who has their finances under control, Save Karyn is a great read. You will nod your head in recognition and laugh at her crazy expenditures.