In 'Bringing Down the House,' Ben Mezrich unveils the thrilling true story of a group of MIT students who revolutionize the world of poker and gambling through their ingenious card counting techniques. As they take Las Vegas by storm, their exhilarating journey intertwines with high-stakes dangers and moral dilemmas. The book paints a vivid picture of ambition, intelligence, and the intoxicating lure of money, all while revealing the unexpected consequences of their success. As tensions rise and loyalties are tested, readers are left questioning: How far would you go for fortune and glory? Prepare to be captivated by a world where wits and strategy reign supreme, and the stakes are life-changing.
By Ben Mezrich
Published: 2002
""You can't have bravery without fear. It's all in how you deal with it.""
Recounts the story of how a notorious gang of MIT blackjack savants devised and received backing for a system for winning at the world's most sophisticated casinos, an endeavor that earned them more than three million dollars.
Showing 8 of 27 similar books
Bill Ackman is an American hedge fund manager and founder of Pershing Square Capital Management, known for his activist investing style. Ackman has been involved in high-profile investment battles, including his campaigns against companies like Herbalife and his successful turnaround of companies like Canadian Pacific Railway. He is known for taking bold, contrarian positions and for his ability to influence corporate governance through shareholder activism. Ackman’s investing philosophy focuses on long-term value creation, and he has become one of the most recognized figures in the finance world.
David Heinemeier Hansson, also known as DHH, is a Danish programmer, entrepreneur, and author, best known as the creator of Ruby on Rails, a popular web application framework. Heinemeier Hansson is also a partner at Basecamp, a project management and collaboration software company he co-founded. His contributions to software development have earned him widespread recognition, with Ruby on Rails being used by thousands of developers and companies worldwide. Heinemeier Hansson is also a vocal advocate for remote work, simplicity in business, and sustainable work practices, ideas he explores in his bestselling books Rework and It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work. In addition to his work in tech, he is an accomplished race car driver, having competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Heinemeier Hansson’s approach to work-life balance and entrepreneurship has made him a thought leader in the tech community, where he continues to challenge traditional business practices and advocate for more human-centered approaches to work
Andrew Lokenauth is a distinguished author and financial expert known for his insightful contributions to personal finance and investment literature. With a career spanning over a decade, he has written extensively on topics such as wealth management, financial planning, and market analysis. Lokenauth's works are celebrated for their clarity and practical advice, making complex financial concepts accessible to a broad audience. He has been featured in numerous financial publications and has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry. Beyond his writing, Lokenauth is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at various seminars and workshops.
Howard Marks was a renowned Welsh author and drug smuggler, best known for his bestselling autobiography, "Mr Nice," published in 1996. The book chronicles his complex life, from Oxford University graduate to one of the world's most infamous cannabis traffickers. Marks' candid storytelling and unique perspective earned him a cult following and critical acclaim, transforming him into a counterculture icon. He further contributed to literature with several other works, including "Señor Nice" and "Sympathy for the Devil." Marks' legacy continues to influence discussions on drug policy and the criminal justice system.
Jason Zweig is a renowned financial journalist and author, best known for his insightful writings on personal finance and investing. He has been a long-time columnist for The Wall Street Journal, where his "The Intelligent Investor" column has garnered a wide readership. Zweig is also the author of several influential books, including "Your Money and Your Brain," which explores the neuroscience behind financial decision-making. He played a pivotal role in updating and annotating Benjamin Graham's classic, "The Intelligent Investor," making it accessible to modern readers. His work has significantly contributed to the public's understanding of behavioral finance and prudent investment strategies.
Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.
Andrew Wilkinson is a distinguished author and entrepreneur, best known for his insightful business writings and contributions to the tech industry. He co-founded MetaLab, a prominent design agency that has shaped the user experience of major platforms like Slack and Coinbase. Wilkinson's entrepreneurial journey and his publications provide valuable perspectives on startup culture, innovation, and leadership. His writing, often featured in leading business magazines and his personal blog, has garnered a wide readership for its practical advice and engaging storytelling. Andrew continues to influence both literature and the business world with his unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.
Martin Shkreli is an American businessman and former hedge fund manager best known for his role in the pharmaceutical industry. He gained notoriety as the CEO of Turing Pharmaceuticals, where he infamously raised the price of the life-saving drug Daraprim by over 5,000%. Despite his controversial business practices, Shkreli has contributed thought-provoking writings on the ethics of pharmaceutical pricing and the healthcare industry. His articles and essays have sparked widespread debate and discussion in both academic and public spheres. Shkreli's complex legacy continues to influence conversations about drug pricing and corporate responsibility.
Showing 8 of 10 related collections
“"You can't have bravery without fear. It's all in how you deal with it."”
Bringing Down the House
By Ben Mezrich
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Ben Mezrich is a bestselling author known for his compelling narrative nonfiction that often explores the intersections of finance, technology, and culture. He gained widespread recognition for his books such as "Bringing Down the House," which tells the story of MIT students who took Las Vegas casinos for millions, and "The Accidental Billionaires," which chronicles the founding of Facebook and inspired the film "The Social Network." Mezrich's writing style combines meticulous research with a fast-paced, cinematic approach that makes complex subjects accessible and engaging. He has a knack for storytelling that captures both the excitement and intricacies of his subjects, making them resonate with a broad audience.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Intelligent Investor," Benjamin Graham unveils timeless strategies for navigating the volatile world of investing with wisdom and discipline. He introduces the concept of value investing, teaching readers to distinguish between price and intrinsic value, all while emphasizing the importance of a defensive investment strategy. Graham’s insightful principles empower investors to cultivate emotional resilience, protecting them from the relentless whims of the market. With real-world anecdotes and practical advice, this classic remains a cornerstone for anyone seeking financial success and peace of mind. Dive in to discover how patience, rationality, and a solid plan can transform your investment journey!
In "Start Late, Finish Rich," financial expert David Bach unveils a transformative roadmap for those who feel it's too late to secure their financial future. Through captivating anecdotes and practical strategies, he encourages readers to seize the power of financial awareness and smart investing, regardless of age. Bach’s message is clear: it’s never too late to turn dreams into reality and build lasting wealth. With his unique blend of motivation and actionable advice, he empowers you to rethink your financial journey. Are you ready to embark on a path that could redefine your retirement?
In "Fooled by Randomness," Nassim Nicholas Taleb explores the hidden influence of chance in our lives, challenging our perceptions of luck, skill, and success. He argues that many people attribute their achievements to talent rather than the randomness that often underpins them. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and sharp wit, Taleb reveals how cognitive biases distort our understanding of risk and probability. He reminds us that, in the grand theater of life, we are often unwitting actors in a play scripted by randomness. Prepare to rethink your beliefs about fortune and failure as you uncover the profound truths lurking beneath the surface of chance.
Liar's Poker takes you deep into the high-stakes world of Wall Street during the 1980s, where the line between truth and deception blurs in the cutthroat arena of finance. Author Michael Lewis pulls back the curtain on the chaotic life of bond traders, showcasing a ruthless culture driven by greed and bravado. Through vivid anecdotes and sharp insights, readers are thrust into the thrilling, sometimes absurd realm of investment banking. As Lewis navigates the intricacies of "big swinging d***s," he unveils the strategies and psychological games that define success in this high-pressure environment. Will you emerge with a new understanding of the financial world and its enigmatic players?
In "Black Edge," investigative journalist Sheelah Kolhatkar delves into the high-stakes world of hedge funds and the enigmatic figure of Steven A. Cohen. As she unravels the saga of insider trading, greed, and Wall Street's murky ethics, the book pulls readers into a gripping tale of ambition that spans decades. With intellectual prowess and audacious risk-taking, Cohen's rise to power raises questions about the moral compass of finance. Kolhatkar's penetrating analysis unveils the dark side of wealth and the relentless pursuit of success, leaving readers questioning the true cost of ambition. Will you dare to uncover the secrets of a financial titan and the shadowy underworld they inhabit?
In 'The Big Short,' Michael Lewis unveils the intricate web of deceit and risk that led to the 2008 financial crisis. Through a cast of eccentric and astute investors, he reveals how a handful of outsiders recognized the impending collapse of the housing market while most of Wall Street remained oblivious. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into the thrilling world of finance, where fortunes are gained and lost in the blink of an eye. Lewis's sharp wit and keen insights slice through the complexities of the crisis, making it both accessible and compelling. This masterful tale challenges us to question the very foundations of the financial system and consider who truly holds the power.
In 'The Toltec Art of Life and Death', Don Miguel Ruiz explores the profound teachings of the Toltec tradition, inviting readers to discover the art of living fully and fearlessly. Through a blend of ancient wisdom and personal experiences, Ruiz delves into the nature of existence, consciousness, and the journey of the soul. Readers are challenged to release their fears and beliefs that limit their potential, embracing a path of authenticity and empowerment. This transformative narrative offers practical insights and powerful rituals that can lead to a deeper understanding of life and death. Engage with Ruiz's compelling journey to unlock the secrets of a fulfilled life and navigate the mystery of mortality.
In 'Security Analysis,' Benjamin Graham and David Dodd unveil the timeless principles of value investing that have guided astute investors for decades. This sixth edition, with a foreword by Warren Buffett, emphasizes the importance of thorough financial analysis and prudent decision-making. Readers will discover powerful techniques to evaluate stocks and bonds through a deep understanding of intrinsic value and market psychology. Graham and Dodd's insights challenge conventional wisdom, encouraging a disciplined approach to investing. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned investor, this seminal work promises to revolutionize your financial strategy.