By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Evan Osnos's latest work, "The Haves and Have-Yachts: Dispatches on the Ultrarich," is a scathing exposé of the obscene excesses that define America's modern oligarchy. Osnos, a seasoned journalist with a keen eye for detail, delves into the lavish lifestyles of the ultra-wealthy, revealing a world so detached from reality that it borders on the grotesque.

The book is a collection of meticulously crafted essays, each peeling back the layers of opulence that shroud the lives of billionaires. From $500 million superyachts to private concerts featuring pop stars like Flo Rida at children's parties, Osnos paints a picture of a class so insulated by wealth that their indulgences seem almost satirical. One particularly jarring anecdote recounts a bar mitzvah where the birthday boy is serenaded by Flo Rida, singing lyrics that are wildly inappropriate for the occasion, all while his peers revel in the extravagance. ([ft.com](https://www.ft.com/content/b57731c0-ee5a-4c38-833e-b0de2c3730fe?utm_source=openai))

Osnos doesn't merely catalog these excesses; he probes the psychological underpinnings that drive such behavior. He suggests that the super-rich are plagued by anxieties and a relentless pursuit of exclusivity, leading them to construct elaborate bunkers and commission ever-larger yachts as symbols of their unparalleled status. This relentless one-upmanship underscores a disturbing detachment from the societal issues that their wealth could address. ([ft.com](https://www.ft.com/content/b57731c0-ee5a-4c38-833e-b0de2c3730fe?utm_source=openai))

The author's narrative is both engaging and unsettling. His firsthand experiences aboard these floating palaces offer readers a voyeuristic glimpse into a world where luxury knows no bounds. Yet, beneath the surface, there's a palpable critique of the moral vacuity that often accompanies such wealth. Osnos's writing is incisive, blending humor with a sharp analysis that leaves readers both entertained and appalled.

However, the book is not without its shortcomings. While Osnos excels at depicting the extravagance of the ultra-rich, he occasionally falls into the trap of sensationalism, focusing on the most outrageous examples at the expense of a deeper exploration of systemic issues. Additionally, readers seeking solutions or a more balanced perspective on wealth inequality may find the book lacking in substantive analysis beyond the vivid portrayals of excess.

In conclusion, "The Haves and Have-Yachts" is a compelling, if at times overwhelming, journey into the lives of America's financial elite. Osnos's storytelling is both captivating and thought-provoking, shedding light on a segment of society that operates with impunity and extravagance. While the book may not offer remedies to the stark disparities it highlights, it serves as a crucial wake-up call to the unchecked excesses that continue to shape our social and political landscape.

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 6/12/2025