The Umbrella Men - Keith Carter

The Umbrella Men is the story of a waning business, amidst the 2008 financial crisis.



The Umbrella Men jumps around between various little plots which are all connected through the mining company Rareterre. There's the story of the company's management in London who are trying to keep the business afloat, the story of the residents who live near the mine and think it is a blemish on the natural landscape, and the stories of various investment bankers, who are playing the market to make as much money as possible, regardless of any consequences. And this is really a story about consequences and selfishness, not just on the part of the bankers.

This is a hefty book, but it ticks along at a fast enough pace. The story is mainly about bankers and investments, so theres a lot of financial stuff going on, and the accountant talk gets a bit heavy at times. Now here's a confession - I work in the financial industry (not a banker. Insurance, if that makes it any better). I knew what was going on when the finance talk got going but I wonder whether this would keep a layman entertained or interested.

I went into this book expecting a satire on the financial industry, on the markets and the people who play them. I wouldn't say that is really the case. It's more a peice of literature based around the financial crisis - and it is a pretty good piece of literature. There's plenty of themes running through this book and food for thought.

I liked this book. The plot is the strong point - it raises questions of fate and consequences, and made me think of the old saying about a butterfly starting hurricanes. If you can get through financial guff, check it out!

(This review has been all over the place - apologies reader. Its 2 days before christmas and my wife and I have just had our 3rd baby.  Happy Christmas all!)

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