As a young professional today, you are part of a generation with greater earning power and more advanced degrees than preceding ones-along with a fresh, holistic outlook on financial success. Yes, you might have taken out more debt than previous generations, but that doesn't mean you're a slacker living off credit cards and takeout as media pundits would have people believe. Kimberly Palmer, the Alpha Consumer columnist for US News & World Report, frequently receives questions from twenty-, thirty-, and forty-something readers like you about making smart, sustainable life choices, including:
What should I be doing with my savings? • Should I take on freelance jobs? • Where should I invest my money? • Should I buy a house or keep renting? • Does it make sense to share a mortgage with my significant other? • Can I afford a baby? • How can I support the causes I believe in? • Should I start a nonprofit?

In Generation Earn, Palmer answers these questions-and many more-in three parts. Part one centers on the self, covering professional goals, personal spending, debt management, and investing. Part two focuses on creating a home, including renting, mortgages, marriage, and saving for baby. Part three addresses the world at large, including green spending, sustainable donating, and supporting nonprofits. Add it all up and you have a plan for every major decision you'll have to make to create a successful life.