Let me be honest: This book made me side-eye my 9-to-5 hard. Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad isn’t just a best business book, it’s a gut punch to everything you thought you knew about money. If you’ve ever wondered why the rich keep getting richer (while your paycheck vanishes by Tuesday), this Rich Dad Poor Dad book review is your wake-up call.
The Story (No Spoilers, Just Money Truths)
In “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” Robert Kiyosaki compares two father figures:
- Poor Dad: His biological father, a highly educated professor who supported the traditional path of “Go to school, get a job, save money,” yet ultimately died in a financial struggle.
- Rich Dad: The father of Kiyosaki’s best friend, a dropout who created wealth by investing in assets such as rental properties and businesses, effectively escaping the “rat race.”
This work is not merely a memoir; it summarizes the philosophy of “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” which states, “The rich don’t work for money; they make money work for them.” Kiyosaki criticizes concepts like job security, describing it as “a trap,” and offers clear explanations of assets versus liabilities that will prompt you to rethink your car loan.
You’re only poor if you give up. The most important thing is that you did something. Most people only talk and dream of getting rich. You’ve done something.
Why This Book Will Change Your Wallet
Kiyosaki’s genius is his brutal simplicity. He doesn’t teach stock picks or budgeting hacks—he rewires how you think about money. Key lessons:
- Assets vs. Liabilities: Assets put money in your pocket (rental income, stocks). Liabilities take it out (your mortgage, that fancy car).
- The Rat Race Cycle: Earn money → spend more → work harder → repeat. This circle never ends.
- Financial Education: Schools don’t teach money skills but this book does.
What makes Rich Dad Poor Dad one of the best business books is its kick-in-the-pants motivation. You’ll finish itching to start a side hustle, buy a rental property, or at least cancel that unnecessary subscription draining your cash flow.
Heads-Up: Not Everyone Loves This Book
Critics call it oversimplified or repetitive. Some stories feel embellished (Rich Dad might be fictional). But that’s missing the point. This isn’t a step-by-step guide, it’s a mindset grenade. If you want jargon-free, relatable money talk, Kiyosaki delivers.
Should You Read Rich Dad, Poor Dad?
YES. Whether you’re broke, comfortable, or secretly dreaming of financial freedom, Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki is a must-read business book. It’s short, punchy, and packed with “Why didn’t I learn this sooner?!” moments.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5) – Not perfect, but a game-changer for your bank account.
Need more money hacks? Dive into our best business books roundup, including this Rich Dad Poor Dad book review and guides to turn hustle into wealth. Your future self will high-five you.