I’ve always felt that by using the word “cheapskate” in the title of my blog, that maybe, in some small way, it will lessen the stigma that comes with being a frugal person.

It’s like Lauren Weber read my mind.  She has recently published a book called “In Cheap We Trust: The Story of a Misunderstood American Virtue.”

In her book, Weber takes readers through a delightful journey of the history of frugality in the United States, as she tries to erase the stereotype of cheapness.  I was afraid the history in the book would be dry and dull.  Instead, I found it fascinating and even caught myself wanting to take notes.  Here was an author who understood how I viewed the world and was sharing stories of some of the most famous frugal people of all time (like Ben Franklin, for one)!

Weber weaves the culture of frugality into the threads of the times.  Her book is a fascinating look at how frugality affects the American economy and how we embrace (or disengage from it) as a society.

In Cheap We Trust also includes a bit about the psychology behind frugality and an introduction to frugal living (although if you’re reading this blog, some of that information may be second nature by now).  Weber also shares her own personal experiences with money and frugality.

This book was a fun read, especially for the tightwad who is also a history buff.

And keep a pencil handy.  You may just want to take notes.

Please note: I was given a copy of this book to review by Hachette Book Group, the publisher of this book. I was not compensated in any other way for this review. The opinions reflected in my review are entirely my own, honest thoughts on this book, and were not edited by the book’s author, publisher or distributors.