I definitely support the idea of writing a book solely on Consumer Wisdom because after doing a little online browsing, I could not find any book only on this topic and that targeted Generation Z and Millennials. I think a book like this, if marketed for this distinct age group, would be a hit because these two generational groups are at a major turning point in their lives where they are just starting out with careers, and they need to start to truly figure out how to spend their money. They are trying to figure out their lifestyle based on their salaries and living environment, and they are most likely willing to listen to all the advice they can get on how to live sustainable, yet cost-effective lives. Also I feel like this is the “purchasing age” for them. For instance, they may be moving into a new apartment where they are no longer have furniture, utensils, appliances, etc. that they once borrowed from their parents. Before this course, it would not have occurred to me to take a couple more minutes out of my life to more thoughtfully consider the products I am buying, even though I do consider myself a frugal person. I would not have thought about spending a bit more on a toaster that is high quality, durable, and sustainable, but I would now look into that versus a seemingly cheap investment that will definitely not last for the long run. Also this book would be a great way to push the idea of the renting and used industry that would definitely be a culture-shift, but this generation would be most open-minded about trying it because they have slowly become more immersed in it.
In terms of the book’s attributes, I would caution against getting into the dense psychological or academic background behind the research because we are an age group that is trying to balance a million things at once, and we do not want to end our days reading scholarly works, unless we are extremely dedicated to academia. Instead, I would suggest formatting the book with straightforward practical tips that can immediately be applied to one’s life. I think each chapter should be summarized in one simple sentence step. For example, “1. Rent or buy used items over new products.” The conclusion should have a list of all of these tips/steps because summaries of the most important points in a quasi-self help book like this would be necessary. I think including two or three examples per chapter of products or services that would cater to this intended book audience would be the most compelling. I would provide some graphics to illustrate the research to establish ethos, credibility, behind what you are saying. I think the Birkenstock, sunglasses, and toaster examples need to be included at some point to support the principles behind being a wise consumer. Additionally, I think the book should be no longer than one hundred pages, as thin as Hemingway’s Old Man in the Sea because I think it will be more appealing to buy for the consumer and less daunting because the purchaser knows they can get through the book quickly and apply what they learned to their lifestyle. I think recommendations of websites, brands, and services to look into would make readers feel they have taken away something tangible from reading this. Also they would not have to put extra work into doing the research on their own because you gave them all these simple tips, and now they can easily search for better items to buy.
Now, that I have read some articles and listened to a presentation on Consumer Wisdom I think I would definitely include that in the title because it emphasizes the positive aspect of being a smart buyer, and it does not guilt-shame people for buying items. However, I would name it something like “Consumer Wisdom: A Young Adult’s Guide to Smart Buying.” Another idea would be “Consumer Wisdom: Eliminating Guilt from Purchasing.” Though, I think including something like “young adult” or “For Millennials and Generation Z” would be a clear way to show this is a book not just for anyone but specifically this age group.