Liar's Poker

by Michael Lewis
Liar's Poker cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Biography and Memoir
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 4388
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2026-02-22
  • ISBN: 9780393338690
  • Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
  • Published: 2010-03-02
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Liar's Poker is a candid and entertaining account of the author's time on Wall Street during the 1980s, a decade marked by unprecedented wealth and reckless behavior. The book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the bond market, where young traders made millions in a very short time, driven by greed and a sense of invincibility. /n/n The author's personal experiences and observations provide a unique perspective on the culture and psychology of Wall Street, revealing the epic folly and humor that defined the era. This book is not just a financial memoir but also a social commentary on the excesses of the time.

Reviews
Ritholtz · 2022-04-22
timeless 4.20

The book remains relevant after 30 years, offering insights into the origins of certain financial instruments and the culture of trading desks. It's a timeless piece that continues to resonate with readers.

The reviewer notes that 'Liar's Poker' remains relevant even after 30 years, providing valuable insights into the origins of certain financial instruments and the macho culture of trading desks. They appreciate the book's timeless quality and its ability to resonate with readers across generations. The reviewer also highlights the book's relevance to contemporary financial issues, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the history and culture of Wall Street.

Quick quotes

    After 30 years, the audio rights to Liar's Poker had reverted back to Lewis.

    He decides to re-read the book for the first time since he wrote it.

    The book remains relevant, offering insights into the origins of certain financial instruments and the culture of trading desks.

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.

Hervature · Zachary Hervieux-Moore · 2018-07-08
brilliant 4.00

The book is a humorous and insightful look at Wall Street in the 1980s, offering a mix of personal anecdotes and financial history. It's praised for its engaging writing style and the author's unique perspective.

Liar's Poker is a book that many readers find both humorous and insightful. The author's personal anecdotes and the financial history of Wall Street in the 1980s are presented in a way that is both engaging and informative. The book's unique perspective on the financial world and the author's engaging writing style make it a enjoyable read. It's a book that offers a lot to both those interested in finance and those who enjoy a well-told story.

Quick quotes

    A humorous and insightful look at Wall Street in the 1980s.

    Offers a mix of personal anecdotes and financial history.

    Praised for its engaging writing style and the author's unique perspective.

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