This plain-English guide clearly explains the pros and cons of investing in bonds, how they differ from stocks, and the best (and worst!) ways to select and purchase bonds for your needs. You'll get up to speed on the different bond varieties and see how to get the best prices when you sell. Covers the ups and downs of today's market, which reinforces the importance of bonds in a portfolio, explains how a radical fall in interest rates make bond investing trickier than ever, explores the historic downgrade of U.S. Treasuries and its possible effects on government bonds.