Dave Ramsey Books in Order: Every Financial Peace, Money Makeover and Leadership Book
Dave Ramsey is known for plain-spoken advice about paying off debt, saving and giving. His books build on the same idea: personal finance is about behaviour more than math, and a clear plan helps people stay on track.
This guide lists his books in order, with a short description of each, and shows where to start whether you want to get out of debt, build wealth, run a business or teach your kids about money. It is educational and not personalized financial advice.
Dave Ramsey Books in Order
Financial Peace (1992)
His first book lays out his approach to getting out of debt and building a stable financial life. It is based on his own experience of losing and rebuilding his wealth. It was later revised and updated.
The Financial Peace Planner
A workbook-style companion for people working through debt. It breaks the plan into steps readers can fill in as they go, with space to write down goals and numbers.
More Than Enough (1999)
A follow-up to Financial Peace focused on building prosperity, budgeting and planning for retirement. It also looks at the role of generosity and contentment.
Financial Peace Revisited (2003)
An updated edition of his first book that covers debt, investing, contentment and money in relationships. It keeps the original message but adds fresh examples and a clearer plan.
The Total Money Makeover (2003)
His best-known book presents the “7 Baby Steps,” a plan for saving an emergency fund, paying off debt, investing and building wealth. It has been revised since and remains his core text.
The Total Money Makeover Workbook
A companion with exercises that put the Baby Steps into practice. It is useful for readers who like to work through a plan step by step and track their own progress.
The Money Answer Book
A question-and-answer guide that covers more than a hundred common money questions drawn from his radio show. It is easy to dip into when you have a specific problem.
EntreLeadership: 20 Years of Practical Business Wisdom from the Trenches (2011)
Ramsey turns his experience building a business into advice on leading teams, setting goals and managing company money. It is aimed at owners and managers who want a values-driven culture.
Dave Ramsey’s Complete Guide to Money (2011)
An all-in-one beginner’s guide that covers budgeting, debt, investing, insurance and mortgages in one volume. It is a handy reference to keep on the shelf.
Smart Money Smart Kids (2014)
Co-written with his daughter, Rachel Cruze, this book teaches parents how to talk to children about money, work and giving. It focuses on building good habits early.
The Legacy Journey (2014)
A look at wealth, generosity and legacy through the lens of Bible scriptures. It is for readers thinking beyond their own finances to what they will leave behind.
Where to Start With Dave Ramsey
- If you are in debt: The Total Money Makeover.
- If you want an all-in-one guide: Dave Ramsey’s Complete Guide to Money.
- If you run a business: EntreLeadership.
- If you have kids: Smart Money Smart Kids.
- If you like a workbook approach: The Total Money Makeover Workbook.
The Seven Baby Steps in Brief
The plan at the heart of his books has seven steps: save a starter emergency fund, pay off debt, build a full emergency fund, invest for retirement, save for children’s education, pay off the home and build wealth while giving. The details are in The Total Money Makeover.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dave Ramsey’s Books
What is Dave Ramsey’s first book?
Financial Peace, first published in 1992.
Which Dave Ramsey book should I read first?
The Total Money Makeover is the most common starting point.
Do I need to read his books in order?
No. Each book works on its own, though More Than Enough and Financial Peace Revisited follow the first book.
What are the 7 Baby Steps?
They are a step-by-step plan: save a starter emergency fund, pay off debt, build a full emergency fund, invest for retirement, save for college, pay off your home and build wealth and give.
Does Dave Ramsey write about business?
Yes. EntreLeadership is his book on leading and growing a business.
Is Dave Ramsey’s advice right for everyone?
His approach works well for many people who want a simple plan, but it is not personalized. Some financial professionals disagree with parts of it, such as avoiding all debt, so consider your own situation and speak with a qualified adviser.
What should I read if I like Dave Ramsey?
Readers often try Suze Orman, Robert Kiyosaki, Morgan Housel, Ramit Sethi and Rachel Cruze.
About Dave Ramsey
Dave Ramsey is an American author, radio host and businessman based in Nashville, Tennessee. He built a real estate business and then lost it to bankruptcy in his twenties, an experience that shaped his message about debt. He now runs Ramsey Solutions and hosts a national radio and online show.
My Take as a Reader
The most useful Ramsey book is the one you act on. Pick the one that matches your situation, apply the first step this week and revisit the others as your goals change.
Final Note
Dave Ramsey’s books offer a clear path for people who want a simple plan. Start with The Total Money Makeover if you are not sure, follow the order above and bookmark this page.
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