The Best $20 You Can Spend on Finance Books at Barnes & Noble

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If you received a $20 Barnes & Noble gift card over the holidays, you’re in a great position to invest in your financial literacy. There are many quality reads at the bookstore that fall within that price range.
Here are some of the best finance books under $20 you should pick up at Barnes & Noble today.
‘The Five Money Personalities’
- Price: $19.99
First on the list is “The Five Money Personalities” by Taylor and Megan Kovar.
“I have to start with a book I’m a little biased about,” said Taylor Kovar, CFP, CEO of The Money Couple. “It’s a book that I genuinely believe can be life-changing.”
Kovar explained that the core idea is simple but powerful. Just as we all have a love language, we all have a money personality. “The way you think about money shapes your decisions, but many people don’t even realize the root of their financial behaviors,” he said.
When you know your money personality, Kovar observed you get a deeper understanding of why you act the way you do with money.
“For some, it’s about saving every penny; for others, it’s about the joy of spending,” he said. “The book helps you recognize your personality type, which is the first step toward breaking unhealthy financial patterns and making smarter choices.”
It’s not just about budgeting or investing, Kovar explained. It’s about understanding yourself better so you can make your money work for you in a way that feels natural and sustainable. “I’ve seen this knowledge create huge shifts for my clients, from improving their financial habits to building long-term wealth,” he said.
‘The Millionaire Next Door’
- Price: $18.95
Another great book Kovar recommended is “The Millionaire Next Door” by Thomas J. Stanley, Ph.D., and William D. Danko, Ph.D.
“It’s packed with practical advice on how regular people can build wealth,” he said. “The book shows that wealth isn’t about having a big paycheck or flashy possessions — it’s about smart choices, living below your means and building wealth over time through disciplined habits.”
Kovar said it’s one of those books that’s simple, but its lessons really stick.
‘Rich Dad Poor Dad’
- Price: $18.95
“Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki is another must-read, according to Kovar.
“It helps you look at money differently, especially when it comes to investing,” he said. “The book teaches you to think about assets versus liabilities and really shifts your mindset from working for money to making your money work for you.”
He explained that it’s a great book for anyone who wants to take control of their financial future and think outside the box.
“These books aren’t just filled with theory — they offer real, practical advice that you can start applying right away,” Kovar said. “Whether you’re just starting out with personal finance or looking to level up, these books are well worth the investment.”
Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.
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