Many current investors involuntarily entered the realm of investments for the first time when 401(k) retirement and other market-tied savings plans became the norm. Homeowners thought their homes were safe, appreciating investments. Yet the last decade saw two major market corrections. The 2008 mortgage-backed securities crisis induced global panic and a resulting recession that has made all Americans take note of their investments and the volatility of markets. Many investors have seen their portfolios dwindle and at the same time watched their homes plummet in value, while layoffs have proliferated. Some, in the wake of the Bernie Madoff scandal and politicians screaming about Wall Street bailouts, have lost faith in the financial system altogether. In this article, the author discusses the basics of investment and presents selective bibliography which includes titles that cover the stages of investing from gathering funds and making choices to preserving assets. Many of the titles provide practical how-to skills, some give background information, and others encourage and supply moral support. Taken as a whole, they offer a means for individuals to better understand investments, their investor risk tolerance, and factors that may affect their portfolios and overall financial well-being.