Liar's Poker

by Michael Lewis
Liar's Poker cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Biography and Memoir
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Paperback • £10.99
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Technical
  • ID: 4388
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780140143454
  • Publisher: Penguin (Non-Classics)
  • Published: 1990-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Liar's Poker is Michael Lewis's gripping account of his time working at Salomon Brothers, one of the most powerful investment banks on Wall Street. The book offers a candid look at the high-stakes, high-reward culture of the financial world during the 1980s, where young traders and bankers were thrust into a world of immense wealth and pressure. Lewis's insider perspective provides a unique glimpse into the inner workings of the financial industry, exposing the ruthless competition and the often absurd behavior that defined the era. /n/n Beyond the plot, Liar's Poker is notable for its sharp wit and engaging prose, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in finance, business, or the human drama that unfolds in high-pressure environments. Lewis's firsthand experiences and observations offer valuable insights into the psychology of Wall Street and the broader implications of its practices on the global economy.

Reviews
The New York Times · 2022-02-05
thought-provoking 4.00

The book documents the reckless culture of investment banking in the 1980s. It's a relevant read that offers insights into the financial industry's past and present.

The New York Times highlights how the book captures the reckless and frat-like culture of investment banking in the 1980s. It's a relevant read that provides valuable insights into the financial industry's past and present. The book is not just a historical account but also a commentary on how Wall Street has evolved over the years. It's a thought-provoking read that offers a deeper understanding of the financial world.

Quick quotes

    The book documented the reckless, frat-guy culture of investment banking in the 1980s.

    DealBook talked with Mr. Lewis about how Wall Street has (and hasn't) changed.

    It's a relevant read that offers insights into the financial industry's past and present.

Cannonball Read · Jake · 2021-05-07
great 4.50

The book is surprisingly funny and provides a critical look at the financial industry. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the culture of Wall Street.

Jake found the book to be incredibly funny, which was unexpected given the subject matter. The humor makes the book more accessible and engaging. It also offers a critical perspective on the financial industry, highlighting the reckless behavior and culture that led to the 1987 stock market crash. Jake appreciates the book's ability to balance humor with serious commentary, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    What's incredible about Michael Lewis' Liar's Poker is just how funny it is.

    You want to be mad at all of these people for ruining the world, but you can't help but laugh at their antics.

    The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the culture of Wall Street.

Goodreads · 2000-01-01
intriguing 4.20

The book provides a fascinating insider's look at the culture of Wall Street in the 1980s. It's both entertaining and eye-opening about the financial world.

This book offers a unique perspective on the financial industry during the 1980s, capturing the essence of Wall Street's culture. The narrative is engaging and humorous, making it a riveting read. It's not just about the financial aspects but also about the people and their behaviors that shaped the industry. The book is a great blend of personal anecdotes and historical context, providing a comprehensive view of the era.

Quick quotes

    The time was the 1980s. The place was Wall Street. The game was called Liar's Poker.

    It's a fascinating look at the culture of Wall Street in the 1980s.

    The book is both entertaining and eye-opening about the financial world.

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