By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Andrew Ross Sorkin's latest work, "1929: Inside the Greatest Crash in Wall Street History—and How It Shattered a Nation," is a meticulously researched and vividly narrated account of the catastrophic stock market crash that precipitated the Great Depression. Sorkin, renowned for his incisive financial journalism and the acclaimed "Too Big to Fail," delivers a narrative that is both compelling and cautionary.

The book's strength lies in its exhaustive research. Sorkin has unearthed a treasure trove of primary sources, including diaries, letters, and Federal Reserve meeting minutes, to construct a detailed chronicle of the events leading up to and following the 1929 crash. This meticulous approach provides readers with an intimate look at the key figures of the era—bankers, politicians, and investors—whose actions and decisions had far-reaching consequences. The narrative is enriched by Sorkin's ability to weave these individual stories into the broader tapestry of economic and social upheaval.

However, the book's focus on the upper echelons of society may leave some readers wanting. While Sorkin offers a penetrating analysis of the machinations of Wall Street's elite, the experiences of ordinary Americans who bore the brunt of the economic collapse are largely absent. This omission, though perhaps intentional, results in a somewhat myopic view of the crisis. As noted in Kirkus Reviews, the narrative centers on the affluent, leaving the countless unsung Americans wrecked by the crash in the background. ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/andrew-ross-sorkin/1929-2/?utm_source=openai))

Sorkin's narrative style is both engaging and accessible. He adeptly explains complex financial instruments and practices, such as stock pools and margin buying, without resorting to jargon or oversimplification. This clarity ensures that readers without a background in finance can grasp the mechanisms that contributed to the market's downfall. The Christian Science Monitor praises the book's immersive history and meticulous archival research, highlighting Sorkin's ability to convey the high drama of the crash. ([csmonitor.com](https://www.csmonitor.com/Books/Book-Reviews/2025/1021/1929-stock-market-great-depression-andrew-ross-sorkin?utm_source=openai))

One of the book's most compelling aspects is its exploration of the psychological factors that fueled the speculative bubble. Sorkin delves into the mindset of the era, characterized by blind optimism and a pervasive belief that the market's ascent was unstoppable. This examination serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of collective delusion and the seductive illusion that "this time is different." The narrative draws parallels between the 1929 crash and more recent financial crises, underscoring the cyclical nature of economic folly. As Sorkin notes, each wave of market mania seduces us into thinking we've learned from history, only for it to happen again. ([business-standard.com](https://www.business-standard.com/book/wall-street-s-original-sin-sorkin-revisits-the-greed-and-glamour-of-1929-125101501566_1.html?utm_source=openai))

Despite its many strengths, "1929" is not without its flaws. The book's length and density may be daunting for some readers, and the focus on financial elites can make the narrative feel detached from the broader societal impact of the crash. Additionally, while Sorkin's sympathy for some of the financiers adds nuance, it may also be seen as an attempt to absolve them of culpability. As highlighted in Business Standard, Sorkin's half-hearted defense of the 1929 bankers ultimately serves as an indictment of the system he claims to love. ([business-standard.com](https://www.business-standard.com/book/wall-street-s-original-sin-sorkin-revisits-the-greed-and-glamour-of-1929-125101501566_1.html?utm_source=openai))

In conclusion, "1929" is a masterful account of one of the most pivotal events in financial history. Sorkin's thorough research and engaging narrative provide valuable insights into the causes and consequences of the stock market crash. While the book's focus on the financial elite may not appeal to all readers, its lessons on the dangers of unchecked speculation and the importance of regulatory oversight are as relevant today as they were nearly a century ago. For those interested in the intricacies of financial history and the human behaviors that drive economic cycles, "1929" is highly recommended.

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 10/23/2025