Book Review

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Life as a Military Spouse by Lissa McGrath.

I have a certain skepticism regarding the "Complete Idiot's Guide" line, but I decided to put it aside in search of a truly useful book of tips and tricks for the military lifestyle. I'm glad I did! Aside from books specifically targeted toward the training of Special Forces soldier's this is the most useful book I've come across thus far. 

McGrath infuses copious amounts of information with light humor and useful tips to make the actual reading of this book enjoyable. The layout of the book into specifically labeled sections and chapters makes it easy to find the information that you are looking for and quickly. 

Chapter List
1. Marrying into the Military
2. Understanding Pay and Allowances
3. Benefits for Military Families
4. Military Family Support Services
5. You and Me Plus Baby Makes THree
6. Navigating the Childcare System
7.The Dreaded PCS Move
8. Your New Duty Station
9. Settling in and Getting Connected
10. Moving Overseas
11. Pre-Deployment Planning
12. During the Deployment
13. Post-Deployment
14. What If He's Injured in the Field?
15. What If He Doesn't Come Back?
16. Planning for Retirement...at 37.

The book includes information on gaining US citizenship when marrying into the Military (for those of foreign birth,) how to help children deal with deployment, and making the most of your move. 

Most useful to me though, was the information on the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)- an investment option, and what occurs after the death of a soldier. Even though I have no desire to think about it, knowing the procedures and what is available to the grieving family is vital. For example...the Army will cover travel costs for immediate family, the soldier's parents, and your parents to attend the funeral.  

McGrath quickly (208 pages) covers many confusing aspects of being a military spouse, along with many of the questions that you either didn't want to or didn't know who to ask questions of. Even though the book is five years old and many of the payment/cost tables are no longer useful, the author does include the website information for more updated spread sheets. This one is definitely worth the time, especially for someone who is new at this! (like me)