Originally published in 1989, Liar’s Poker by Michael Lewis is a nonfiction account of his experiences as a Wall Street bonds salesman in the late 1980s. The book details his journey from a naive trainee at Salomon Brothers to a skilled bonds trader, navigating the high-stakes world of bond markets, the ethical dilemmas, and the corporate intrigue that defines the financial industry.

Michael Lewis’ Liar’s Poker offers a gripping insider’s look at Wall Street's excesses during the 1980s. Praised for its engaging storytelling and insightful critique of financial culture, some critics find the book's humor inconsistent and its narrative occasionally meandering. Nonetheless, it remains an essential read for finance and economics enthusiasts.

Readers who would enjoy Liar’s Poker by Michael Lewis are typically interested in finance, Wall Street culture, and insider stories. Comparable to Michael Lewis’s own The Big Short and Tom Wolfe’s The Bonfire of the Vanities, these readers appreciate exposing the inner workings of financial institutions and the characters behind them.

Informative / Gritty / Humorous / Suspenseful / Challenging

Michael Lewis

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Nonfiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Liar’s Poker reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Liar’s Poker | SuperSummary

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Overview

This Liar's Poker summary reveals Michael Lewis's insider look at Wall Street's greed and excess in the 1980s, with expert analysis on key themes.

Liar's Poker Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Preface - Chapter 2

Get ready to explore Liar’s Poker and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Liar’s Poker Preface - Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 3-4

Liar’s Poker Chapters 3-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-7

Liar’s Poker Chapters 5-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-9

Liar’s Poker Chapters 8-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 10 - Epilogue

Liar’s Poker Chapter 10 - Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

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Themes

Liar’s Poker Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Liar’s Poker Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Liar’s Poker Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Liar’s Poker Essay Topics

Liar’s Poker

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read Liar’s Poker?

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