Bank

A funny departure from many of the books that I have read from the list, this time Bank by David Bledin.  Bledin brings the reader into the much talked about “fictitious” life of the investment banker, or is it?  Bledin’s lead character, “Mumbles,” has recently graduated from college to make his money in the world.  Of course we all know that entry-level analysts make about $120k (when you add in that end of the year bonus) and Mumbles is hoping to be no exception.  Mumbles introduces the reader to his gang at work, including “the Defeated One,” “Postal Boy," and Clyde.  The four young men struggle to gain any sense of self-worth working at a place that sees them as everything from “copy boy” to “coffee boy” to “work your ass off and expect little from us” bosses.  Each character in the book is known by their “nickname” such as “The Prodigal Son” – the analyst who makes it, and his conquest at work, “Unadulterated Sex,” whom the foursome videotape having sex on the table in a conference room.   The foursome are all overworked and work 90+ hour weeks but to stay alert and active they attempt to pull some pranks, one which I already mentioned, hoping to show it at the annual Christmas Party, but like all “losers” something prevents it from being shown.  The book gives a glimpse into this highly overrated life of making money but having no life.  There is a nice love story interwoven between the mischief, long evenings, and soul searching.  Yes, Mumbles learns what is most important in life, as we all should!  The Woman with the Scarf plays a pivotal role in helping Mumbles to “see the light!”  All you Stern students should read this one, if for nothing else but to get some good nicknames for all of your future co-workers.  I liked this one!