A review by a_gillie
The Financial Lives of the Poets by Jess Walter

emotional funny inspiring sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This was an engaging and genuinely hilarious book. Like all great comedy, however, it has a weight of pathos grounding it. Our narrator’s almost stream-of-consciousness makes the book move quickly, but there are also frequent dwellings of a philosophical and political nature. 
What is ostensibly a story about a desperate man turning to dealing drugs, subtly becomes a manifesto of sorts; a critique of consumer capitalism, a study in marriage, an exploration of middle-class dissatisfaction. 
This was the first book of Jess Walter’s that I’ve read and I can confidently say I’ll be reading more. Thoroughly enjoyed!