Recently, I came across the Goldman Sachs reading list. Yes, that would be the list of books that Goldman Sachs, banking firm of our nightmares, recommends that you read. Now, “you” is probably a strong word here; most of these are technical texts (though several Michael Lewis titles appear under the disclaimer “The following popular works are, of course, exaggerated depictions of the darker side of the industry. However, they do provide some of the flavor of life on ‘The Street.'”), and this is probably meant for incoming employees. But I can’t see a list of books without wanting to make my own list of books, and so I will see this Goldman Sachs reading list and counter with my own. This shall be all-fiction (because they obviously need the diversity) and rather pointed, but is aimed at making all you bankers better people. Enjoy.
American Psycho, Bret Easton Ellis
You guys probably know this already, but this is how the rest of us see you: Wall Street denizen by day, insane serial killer by night. If it’s all in your head, it’s not really any better. If only Patrick Bateman had just quit his job and given himself a break. Food for thought.
