Title: The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust
Author: Diana B. Henriques
First published April 26, 2011
437 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781250116581 (ISBN10: 1250116589)
Rating: 3.94
Overview
The Wizard of Lies is the compelling story of Bernie Madoff, the man who orchestrated the largest Ponzi scheme in history. Diana B.
Henriques, a journalist for The New York Times, has written the definitive account of Madoff’s life and the events leading up to his downfall. Through unprecedented access and over one hundred interviews, including never before published interviews with Madoff himself, Henriques provides a vivid and detailed portrayal of the myths and truths surrounding the scandal.
In this revised and expanded edition, she also explores the latest legal developments in the aftermath of Madoff’s conviction. This financial thriller contrasts Madoff’s rise on Wall Street with his eventual self-destruction, providing a complete account of the personal tragedies and legal battles that followed the scandal.
The Wizard of Lies is a timeless cautionary tale for Washington, Wall Street, and Main Street, and now a major HBO film starring Robert De Niro and Michelle Pfeiffer.
About the Author
Meet Diana B. Henriques, a notable author and senior financial writer for The New York Times since 1989.
Henriques has received numerous accolades for her work, including a Polk Award and a Pulitzer Prize finalist nomination. Her work on the Times’ coverage of the Madoff scandal earned her several awards, and she was also part of a Pulitzer finalist team for their coverage of the financial crisis of 2008.
Currently living in Hoboken, New Jersey, Henriques is the author of ‘The White Sharks of Wall Street’ and ‘Fidelity’s World.’
Editoral Review
Diana B. Henriques wrote “The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust” as a deep investigation into the infamous Ponzi scheme committed by businessman Bernie Madoff.
The book was first published on April 26, 2011, and falls into the category of true crime non-fiction. Henriques’ style is investigative and analytical as she attempts to uncover the truth behind the scandal.
Henriques’s book delves into the life of Bernie Madoff, from his background to the moment of his arrest. Henriques gives details on the lives of Madoff’s victims and how they were targeted in this devastating scheme.
The book also addresses Madoff’s relationships with his family, employees and investors, and the slow decline of the company. Throughout the book, Henriques raises questions about trust and the role of the SEC in monitoring financial fraud.
The novel is significant for the historical and cultural understanding of the largest financial fraud in American history. The case had a widespread impact, causing many Americans to doubt the trustworthiness of the financial sector overall.
The book is also a warning to the readers, highlighting how such greed and deceit can destroy lives, relationships and hope.
Henriques did a phenomenal job in telling Madoff’s story, providing excellent imagery and citing various interviews with victims as well as Madoff himself.
Her ability to accurately depict the consequences of Madoff’s behavior captures the reader’s attention from start to finish. Henriques also has a captivating style of writing that sets her apart from the rest.
Her ability to capture the reader’s attention with her elegant prose makes it easily understandable for her target audience.
The book’s major strength is its meticulous analysis of the events that led to the fraud that shook the financial world.
Henriques’ research is impressive as she weaves a complex story of greed, betrayal, and deceit. She provides an accurate account of the story, carefully piecing together every detail.
The book’s weakness is that it may be too esoteric, as it caters to an audience knowledgeable about the financial sector. It may also not provide solutions to correcting the financial malfeasances that led to the crisis.
Overall, Diana B. Henriques’ “The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust” is an exceptional piece of writing that provokes thought and insight into the world of finance.
It’s a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the largest financial scandal in American history. I recommend this book to finance professionals and investors who are looking for insights into the financial sector as it captures a critical view that is vital not only to prevent similar financial scandals, but also to reshape trust in our financial institutions.
As such, “The Wizard of Lies” gets a 4.5/5 rating for its captivating content, meticulously researched story-line, and critical valuation of the financial sector.
