A review by rsoccer70
The Financial Lives of the Poets by Jess Walter

challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

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

4.0

I chose this book b/c I liked a short story by this author which I listened to on Audible. The audiobook version of this short novel was first person and read by the author. When the author has the ability to read/perform well, I think it adds a depth to the overall experience. I related to the middle-aged dad who finds himself financially and relationally over his head during the 2008 "Great Recession." His solution to what ails him is over the top, yet mostly believable. And it's darkly humorous as he gets exponentially further over his head. I like how endearing the characters were - even the antagonists in the story. And I'm a sucker for a redemption story where the protagonist learns and grows to be a better person.