Book Reviews: Reckless Endangerment, Operation Narcissus

Reckless Endangerment  Morgenson, Gretchen and Joshua Rosner, Times Books, Henry Holt & Co, 2011

Jan 2014 This is a detailed and sad chronicle of avarice, malfeasance, “me first” management, “old-boy-net” interdependent thievery, and political manipulation for personal gain, at the worldwide expense of ordinary people and duped investors.  It is a fish-eye into the financial industry, the Fed, and captive regulators.  It is the true story of the people who wrecked the world’s economy and were never brought to justice.  Don’t read it unless you want to know just how badly taxpayers and investors got screwed by a cadre of political and financial industry jerks whose work goes on unhindered to this day.  Don’t read it unless you want to be able to say you are paying attention.  Read it.

Operation Narcissus   Col. Barney Oldfield, Pandick Press, 1978

Jan 2014 An engaging slice of World War II life in England and France, complete with intrigue, bravery, love and dedication.  This is an intricate fiction in which several sub-plots are maintained during the time immediately preceding and after the Normandy invasion.  It is a long book, 429 pages of fine print.  The story comes gracefully to its WW II-era dénouement.  If you’ve got the time, it’s worth the climb.