I first read about the TWG on frugal site called 'Money Saving Old Style' on a UK website devoted to saving money. The reaction to a similar question as the first post was similar to the reaction on here.
One contributor whose opinion and view I respect said she had got a great deal of inspiration from it and said it was well worth reading.
I could not borrow a copy as it was not in the library system, so I bit the bullet and bought it. I got the first two volumes and they were very cheap second hand from Amazon. Interestingly, they came from US libraries.
I love the books and reread them regularly. I do not use them as a manual and maybe much of the advice is easy to find on other websites, though I haven't done so. However the books are well written and amusing. As other posters here have said, her view is if you do not throw money away you will be able to afford the things you want. For Amy it was a large family and a special house, for me it is to retire comfortably and for others it is to be a stay at home mum. Everyone has their own reason for wanting to save money.
Many of the tips and ideas do not - at first glance - seem relevant to me living here in the UK nearly 20 years down the line. However, a little thought often gave me ideas of how I could use the principle here in England. If you have no thrift shops or garage sales why not look at the essence of what Amy is saying. Used saves you money so find out where second hand items are sold where you live. Are they advertised in local papers, shop windows. Ask your friends and other people you know where you can buy what you are looking for. Word of mouth is something Amy recommends.
Not everything rings a bell with me but then that is only natural. I love her books and they have shown me that it is possible to live well and save shedloads of money.
Lecture over, I'll get my coat................
