Monkey Business : Book Review

"Monkey Business: Swinging Through the Wall Street Jungle" by John Rolfe and Peter Troob is a captivating and humorous insider's perspective on the world of investment banking. Drawing on their own experiences working at prestigious Wall Street firms, the authors take readers on a thrilling journey through the high-pressure and often absurd environment they inhabited.

Through a series of engaging anecdotes and behind-the-scenes accounts, Rolfe and Troob provide a candid look at the cutthroat nature of the industry. They shed light on the long hours, intense competition, and demanding corporate culture that permeate the world of investment banking. However, what truly sets this book apart is the authors' ability to infuse humor into their stories, making it an entertaining and enjoyable read.

In addition to providing an inside look at the industry, the book delves into the financial turmoil of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Rolfe and Troob share their firsthand experiences with the infamous dot-com bubble and its subsequent collapse. By offering valuable insights into the excesses and irrational behavior that fueled the mania, they provide readers with a unique perspective on the greed and hubris that prevailed during that time.

Furthermore, the authors explore the human side of investment banking, delving into the personal toll that the job takes on individuals and their relationships. They reflect on the constant pressure and demanding work environment, and how it affected their well-being. Ultimately, they discuss their decision to leave Wall Street and the reasons behind it.

Overall, "Monkey Business" is an informative and captivating book that offers readers a glimpse into the fast-paced and cutthroat world of investment banking. With its humorous tone and valuable insights into the industry's flaws, it is an entertaining read for both finance professionals and those simply interested in a good memoir. Rolfe and Troob's firsthand accounts and engaging storytelling ensure that this book leaves a lasting impression on its readers.

What are readers saying?

"Monkey Business" by John Roland and Charles Gasparino has received a mixed response from readers, according to the review analysis on Goodreads.

Many readers praised the book for its engaging storytelling and insightful content about the Wall Street culture. They appreciated how the authors were able to explain complex financial concepts in an accessible manner, helping readers grasp the inner workings of the industry. Additionally, the book was commended for its humor and entertaining anecdotes, which made it an enjoyable read.

However, some readers found the book repetitive and lacking in depth. They felt that the authors placed excessive focus on highlighting the excessive lifestyles of Wall Street figures, rather than providing a comprehensive analysis of the financial industry. Critics also argued that the book had a biased perspective and failed to present a balanced view of the subject matter.

The writing style was another aspect that garnered mixed reviews. Some readers found the authors' use of language engaging and captivating, while others believed it to be overly casual and lacking the necessary professionalism for a book about finance. Additionally, a few reviewers noted that the book seemed somewhat dated, with references to events and individuals that may not hold as much relevance for today's readers.

In conclusion, "Monkey Business" has generated diverse opinions among readers. While some appreciated its storytelling and ability to simplify complex concepts, others felt it was lacking depth and had a biased perspective. The writing style, although engaging for some, was criticized by others. Consequently, readers seeking a light, anecdotal perspective on Wall Street culture may find this book enjoyable, but those desiring a more comprehensive analysis may need to explore alternative sources.

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