The Larry Tate Trumpians

John Steele Gordon's "An Empire of Wealth" is a comprehensive history of the American economy, tracing its development from colonial times to the late 20th century. The book explores the key factors that shaped the American economic landscape, including innovation, entrepreneurship, and government policy. Gordon examines the rise of industrial giants, the impact of technological advancements, and the role of finance in shaping the nation's economic trajectory. The book provides a detailed and insightful analysis of the forces that propelled America's economic growth and its transformation into a global superpower. It offers a valuable perspective on the long-term trends and patterns that have shaped the American economy.

In 'The Forgotten Man,' Amity Shlaes offers a striking reinterpretation of the Great Depression by shifting the focus from the New Deal to the moving stories of individual Americans who endured the era. The book explores the brave leadership and perseverance of common people, such as the Schechters, a family of butchers in Brooklyn, and Bill W., the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. Shlaes also examines the failures of Presidents Hoover and Roosevelt in understanding the prosperity of the 1920s and the long-lasting impact of their policies. The book argues that the real question about the Depression is why it lasted so long, rather than whether Roosevelt ended it with World War II.

The Bonfire of the Vanities is a drama that centers on three main characters: Sherman McCoy, a WASP bond trader; Larry Kramer, a Jewish assistant district attorney; and Peter Fallow, a British expatriate journalist. The novel explores the complexities of New York City in the 1980s, delving into themes of ambition, racism, social class, politics, and greed. It was originally conceived as a serial in the style of Charles Dickens and ran in 27 installments in Rolling Stone before being published in book form. The story follows the characters through their interactions and conflicts, highlighting the superficial values and hypocrisies of the city's elite and the underlying social tensions of the time.