Are you intrigued by the world of corporate fraud, embezzlement, and financial deception? If so, you’ll want to dive into the fascinating world of white collar crime through the pages of these 20 best books about white collar crime. From gripping true crime accounts to insightful analyses of corporate scandals, these books offer a compelling look into the dark side of the business world. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast, a business professional, or simply curious about the inner workings of white collar crime, there’s a book on white collar crime that will captivate and educate you. Let’s explore the top 20 white collar crime books that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Contents
- 1 20 Best White Collar Crime Books
- 2 Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup
- 3 The Spider Network: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History
- 4 The Chickenshit Club: Why the Justice Department Fails to Prosecute Executives
- 5 The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron
- 6 The Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World
- 7 No One Would Listen: A True Financial Thriller
- 8 The Informant: A True Story
- 9 The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust
- 10 The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine
- 11 Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man’s Fight for Justice
- 12 The Fixer: The Notorious Life of a Front-Page Bail Bondsman
- 13 The Wolf of Wall Street
- 14 Den of Thieves
- 15 Conspiracy of Fools: A True Story
- 16 The Confidence Game: Why We Fall for It… Every Time
- 17 The Art of the Steal: How to Protect Yourself and Your Business from Fraud, America’s #1 Crime
- 18 The Whistleblower: Sex Trafficking, Military Contractors, and One Woman’s Fight for Justice
- 19 American Kingpin: The Epic Hunt for the Criminal Mastermind Behind the Silk Road
- 20 The Man Who Knew: The Life and Times of Alan Greenspan
- 21 Too Big to Fail: The Inside Story of How Wall Street and Washington Fought to Save the Financial System–and Themselves
- 22 Final Thoughts on Best White Collar Crime Books
- 23
20 Best White Collar Crime Books
Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup
by John Carreyrou
Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou is a gripping book on white collar crime that unravels the shocking true story of Theranos, a once-celebrated biotech company. The book exposes the deceit and fraud at the heart of the company, led by its charismatic founder Elizabeth Holmes. Carreyrou, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, meticulously investigates the rise and fall of Theranos, revealing how Holmes and her partner, Sunny Balwani, misled investors, patients, and employees with false claims about their revolutionary blood-testing technology.
The book about white collar crime offers a fascinating inside look at the toxic culture of deception and fear that permeated the company, as well as the sheer audacity of the lies perpetuated by its leaders. Carreyrou’s investigative prowess and compelling storytelling make Bad Blood a page-turner that reads like a thriller. It’s a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of unchecked greed in the high-stakes world of Silicon Valley. This white-collar crime book is a must-read for anyone interested in corporate fraud, ethics, and the dark side of entrepreneurship.
The Spider Network: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History
by David Enrich
The Spider Network: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History by David Enrich is a gripping book about white collar crime. It delves into the true story of a group of bankers who manipulated the global financial system, pulling off one of the most audacious and far-reaching scams in history. At the center of the web is Tom Hayes, a math genius who becomes the ringleader of a network of traders and bankers who conspired to rig the Libor interest rate. As Enrich unravels the intricate web of deceit, he reveals the cutthroat world of high finance, where loyalty is scarce and betrayal is commonplace. The book offers a fascinating insight into the world of white collar crime, exposing the greed and corruption that lurk behind the polished facade of the banking industry. Enrich’s meticulous research and compelling storytelling make The Spider Network a must-read for anyone interested in the darker side of finance.
The Chickenshit Club: Why the Justice Department Fails to Prosecute Executives
by Jesse Eisinger
The Chickenshit Club: Why the Justice Department Fails to Prosecute Executives by Jesse Eisinger is a captivating exploration of the challenges and failures within the justice system when it comes to prosecuting executives for corporate wrongdoing. Eisinger, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, delves into the world of corporate crime and the lack of accountability for powerful individuals in positions of authority. Through in-depth research and compelling storytelling, Eisinger sheds light on the complexities and obstacles that prevent the prosecution of white collar criminals. The book provides a critical analysis of the legal and ethical implications of the Justice Department’s approach to tackling corporate misconduct, offering valuable insights into the mechanisms and influences that perpetuate impunity in the corporate world. With its thought-provoking narrative and meticulous examination of the justice system, The Chickenshit Club is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of corporate crime and its impact on society.
The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron
by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind
The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind is a gripping book about white collar crime that delves into the meteoric rise and catastrophic collapse of one of the largest and most infamous corporate scandals in history. The authors provide a detailed account of the rise of Enron, the energy company that was once considered a shining example of innovation and success in the business world.
However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Enron’s success was built on a foundation of deception, fraud, and manipulation. McLean and Elkind meticulously uncover the corrupt practices and unethical behavior that ultimately led to the company’s downfall, resulting in billions of dollars in losses for investors and employees.
This book about white collar crime offers a fascinating and disturbing look at the dark underbelly of corporate America, and serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked greed and ambition.
The Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World
by Tom Wright and Bradley Hope
The Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World is a captivating book about white collar crime that unravels the astounding true story of Jho Low, a Malaysian financier who masterminded one of the biggest financial heists in history. Written by Tom Wright and Bradley Hope, this white collar crime book takes readers on a thrilling journey through the world of high finance, extravagant parties, and international intrigue.
The authors meticulously detail how Jho Low managed to deceive some of the most powerful institutions and individuals, including Wall Street bankers, Hollywood celebrities, and even a country’s leadership, to orchestrate a multibillion-dollar embezzlement scheme. The book provides a gripping insight into the lavish lifestyle, deceitful tactics, and the audacious nature of white collar crime at its highest level.
With its rich narrative and meticulous investigative reporting, The Billion Dollar Whale is a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, high-stakes finance, and the captivating world of white collar crime.
No One Would Listen: A True Financial Thriller
by Harry Markopolos
No One Would Listen: A True Financial Thriller by Harry Markopolos is a gripping book about white collar crime that reads like a real-life detective story. Markopolos, a former securities industry executive, recounts his relentless pursuit of the truth behind Bernie Madoff’s infamous Ponzi scheme. As a whistleblower, Markopolos risked his career and personal safety to expose the largest financial fraud in history.
The book takes readers on a thrilling journey as Markopolos uncovers the intricate web of deceit and corruption that allowed Madoff to perpetrate his massive fraud for decades. Markopolos’s tenacity and determination to bring Madoff to justice make for a captivating and inspiring read. No One Would Listen is not just a book about white collar crime, but also a testament to the power of individual courage and the importance of holding financial criminals accountable.
Markopolos’s firsthand account of his dogged pursuit of the truth will keep readers on the edge of their seats, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in financial crime and the pursuit of justice.
The Informant: A True Story
by Kurt Eichenwald
The Informant: A True Story is a gripping book about white collar crime by Kurt Eichenwald. It tells the astonishing and unbelievable true story of Mark Whitacre, a high-ranking executive at Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), who becomes an FBI informant in a major price-fixing case. As the investigation unfolds, Whitacre’s web of lies, deception, and mental illness is revealed, leading to a shocking and dramatic conclusion.
Eichenwald’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling make The Informant a fascinating and eye-opening read. The book delves into the world of corporate espionage, uncovering the dark underbelly of greed, corruption, and betrayal that permeates the corporate world. The author’s ability to bring the complexities of white collar crime to life makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, corporate scandals, or the inner workings of high-stakes business. The Informant is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the murky world of corporate malfeasance.
The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust
by Diana B. Henriques
The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust by Diana B. Henriques is a riveting book about white collar crime that delves into one of the most infamous Ponzi schemes in history. Henriques, an award-winning financial journalist, provides a captivating and comprehensive account of Bernie Madoff’s fraudulent activities, which led to the loss of billions of dollars for investors.
Through meticulous research and interviews with key players, Henriques paints a compelling portrait of Madoff and his elaborate deception, shedding light on the devastating impact it had on the victims and the financial industry as a whole. The book offers an in-depth exploration of the psychology behind Madoff’s actions, as well as the systemic failures that allowed his scheme to flourish for so long.
With its gripping narrative and insightful analysis, The Wizard of Lies is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate world of white collar crime and the catastrophic consequences it can have. Henriques’ masterful storytelling makes this book on white collar crime a compelling and thought-provoking read.
The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine
by Michael Lewis
The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine, written by Michael Lewis, is a gripping exposรฉ of the 2008 financial crisis. Lewis delves into the world of high finance, providing a detailed account of the events leading up to the collapse of the housing market and the subsequent global economic meltdown. The book offers a fascinating look at the individuals who saw the impending disaster and capitalized on it, making billions while the rest of the world suffered. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Lewis unravels the complex web of greed, incompetence, and deceit that led to the crisis, shedding light on the inner workings of the financial industry. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of the financial world and the devastating impact of unchecked corporate greed. It is a compelling and eye-opening exploration of the dark underbelly of the financial system, making it a standout book on white collar crime.
Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man’s Fight for Justice
by Bill Browder
Red Notice is a gripping book on white collar crime that tells the true story of Bill Browder’s experiences in the world of finance and his fight for justice. Browder’s journey takes readers through the high-stakes world of international finance, as he navigates through the complexities of business in Russia. The book delves into the dark underbelly of corruption and greed, as Browder confronts the brutal murder of his lawyer and seeks to hold those responsible accountable.
Throughout the book about white collar crime, Browder’s determination and resilience shine through, as he battles against powerful forces to seek justice for his friend and to expose the corruption plaguing the financial world. With its fast-paced narrative and high-stakes drama, Red Notice is a compelling white collar crime book that sheds light on the dangers and challenges of doing business in corrupt environments, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
The Fixer: The Notorious Life of a Front-Page Bail Bondsman
by Ira Judelson
The Fixer: The Notorious Life of a Front-Page Bail Bondsman by Ira Judelson is a gripping and eye-opening book about white collar crime. Judelson, a renowned bail bondsman, shares his experiences working with high-profile clients and navigating the murky world of the criminal justice system. Through his captivating storytelling, readers are given a behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of the legal process and the individuals involved in white collar crime.
With a unique perspective and firsthand accounts, Judelson sheds light on the high-stakes world of bail bonds and the individuals who find themselves entangled in scandalous legal battles. The book offers a fascinating exploration of the intersection between wealth, power, and the law, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play in cases of white collar crime.
For anyone interested in true crime, legal thrillers, or the inner workings of the criminal justice system, The Fixer is a must-read that will both entertain and educate.
The Wolf of Wall Street
by Jordan Belfort
The Wolf of Wall Street is a gripping memoir by Jordan Belfort, chronicling his rise and fall on Wall Street. Belfort’s tale is a rollercoaster of excess, greed, and corruption, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the world of finance and white-collar crime. With unapologetic honesty, Belfort recounts his wild journey from a young stockbroker hungry for success to the head of a multi-million dollar brokerage firm, rife with illegal activities and debauchery.
Readers will be drawn into Belfort’s world of lavish parties, extravagant spending, and ruthless manipulation, as he navigates the cutthroat culture of high finance. The book offers a raw and unfiltered look at the dark side of Wall Street, shedding light on the seductive nature of wealth and power, and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition. The Wolf of Wall Street is a cautionary tale that exposes the underbelly of the financial industry, making it a captivating and eye-opening read for anyone intrigued by the allure of money and the dangers of white-collar crime.
Den of Thieves
by James B. Stewart
Den of Thieves by James B. Stewart is a riveting book on white collar crime that delves into the insider trading scandals of the 1980s. Stewart provides a fascinating and in-depth look at the greed, corruption, and deceit that permeated Wall Street during this era. The book follows the lives of key players such as Ivan Boesky, Michael Milken, and Martin Siegel, revealing the intricate web of illegal activities they engaged in to amass their fortunes.
Stewart’s meticulous research and compelling storytelling shed light on the culture of excess and unscrupulous behavior that characterized the financial world at the time. Through detailed accounts and interviews, he paints a vivid picture of the moral bankruptcy and disregard for the law that ran rampant among these high-flying financiers.
Den of Thieves is a gripping and eye-opening book about white collar crime that offers a cautionary tale about the dark side of wealth and power, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the inner workings of the financial industry.
Conspiracy of Fools: A True Story
by Kurt Eichenwald
Conspiracy of Fools: A True Story by Kurt Eichenwald is a gripping and detailed account of the Enron scandal, a notorious case of corporate fraud and deception. Eichenwald, a renowned investigative journalist, delves into the intricate web of deceit and corruption that led to the downfall of one of the largest and most respected companies in the United States. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Eichenwald exposes the inner workings of Enron, revealing how executives manipulated financial statements, deceived investors, and ultimately brought about the company’s collapse.
This book on white collar crime offers a fascinating and disturbing insight into the world of corporate greed and corruption. Eichenwald’s narrative reads like a thriller, full of high-stakes drama and shocking revelations. As he unravels the complex schemes and shady dealings at Enron, the reader is drawn into a world of ambition, arrogance, and moral bankruptcy. Conspiracy of Fools is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dark side of corporate America and the devastating consequences of white collar crime.
The Confidence Game: Why We Fall for It… Every Time
by Maria Konnikova
The Confidence Game: Why We Fall for It… Every Time by Maria Konnikova is a compelling exploration of the psychology behind scams, cons, and frauds. In this captivating book on white collar crime, Konnikova delves into the art of the con and the reasons why people are so easily deceived. Drawing from real-life examples and psychological research, she examines the tactics used by con artists to manipulate their victims and the cognitive biases that make us susceptible to their schemes.
With a mix of storytelling and scientific analysis, Konnikova takes readers on a fascinating journey through the world of scams, exploring the intricate dynamics of trust, deception, and persuasion. She unveils the psychological principles that con artists exploit and offers insight into how we can protect ourselves from falling victim to their ploys.
Whether you’re intrigued by the psychology of deception or seeking to understand the workings of white collar crime, this book about white collar crime is a thought-provoking and eye-opening read that will change the way you perceive trust and manipulation.
The Art of the Steal: How to Protect Yourself and Your Business from Fraud, America’s #1 Crime
by Frank W. Abagnale
The Art of the Steal: How to Protect Yourself and Your Business from Fraud, America’s #1 Crime by Frank W. Abagnale is a compelling and eye-opening book on white collar crime. Abagnale, a former con artist turned FBI consultant, draws on his own experiences to provide valuable insights into the world of fraud and deception. In this book about white collar crime, he shares practical tips and strategies for individuals and businesses to safeguard themselves against various forms of fraud, including identity theft, embezzlement, and cyber scams.
Abagnale’s expertise and engaging writing style make this white collar crime book a must-read for anyone concerned about protecting their finances and personal information. Whether you’re a small business owner or an individual looking to enhance your fraud prevention skills, The Art of the Steal offers valuable advice and real-life examples that will help you stay one step ahead of the fraudsters.
The Whistleblower: Sex Trafficking, Military Contractors, and One Woman’s Fight for Justice
by Kathryn Bolkovac
The Whistleblower is a gripping non-fiction book on white collar crime that tells the true story of Kathryn Bolkovac, a former Nebraska police officer who was hired as a United Nations peacekeeper in post-war Bosnia. As she began her work, Bolkovac uncovered a horrifying world of sex trafficking and corruption involving military contractors and international peacekeeping forces.
The book details Bolkovac’s courageous fight for justice as she risked her career and safety to expose the complicity of her colleagues and superiors in the sex trafficking ring. It reveals the shocking reality of white collar crime and the power dynamics that enable such criminal activities to thrive.
Bolkovac’s story is a powerful and thought-provoking account of one woman’s determination to uncover the truth and hold those responsible for white collar crime accountable. The Whistleblower sheds light on the dark underbelly of international peacekeeping and the disturbing intersection of sex trafficking and military contractors. It is a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, corruption, and the fight for justice.
American Kingpin: The Epic Hunt for the Criminal Mastermind Behind the Silk Road
by Nick Bilton
American Kingpin: The Epic Hunt for the Criminal Mastermind Behind the Silk Road by Nick Bilton is a gripping book about white collar crime that follows the incredible true story of the rise and fall of Ross Ulbricht, the mastermind behind the infamous online black market, Silk Road. Bilton takes readers on a thrilling journey through the dark web and the underground world of illegal drug trading, as Ulbricht builds his empire while evading law enforcement.
The book provides a fascinating look into Ulbricht’s transformation from a regular college student to a notorious criminal, and the relentless pursuit by law enforcement to bring him to justice. Bilton’s meticulous research and compelling storytelling make American Kingpin a page-turner that is both informative and captivating. This white collar crime book sheds light on the complexities of cybercrime and the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating online illegal activities. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in true crime and the world of cybercriminals.
The Man Who Knew: The Life and Times of Alan Greenspan
by Sebastian Mallaby
The Man Who Knew: The Life and Times of Alan Greenspan by Sebastian Mallaby is a captivating biography of one of the most influential figures in modern economic history. This book delves into the life of Alan Greenspan, the former chairman of the Federal Reserve, and provides a comprehensive look at his impact on the global economy. Mallaby offers a thorough examination of Greenspan’s career, from his early days as a young economist to his rise to power and influence in shaping economic policy.
Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Mallaby paints a vivid portrait of Greenspan’s complex personality and his role in shaping the world of finance and economics. The book also provides valuable insights into the inner workings of the Federal Reserve and the challenges faced by policymakers in navigating the complexities of the financial world.
Whether you’re a finance enthusiast, a history buff, or simply interested in a compelling biography, The Man Who Knew is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our global economy.
Too Big to Fail: The Inside Story of How Wall Street and Washington Fought to Save the Financial System–and Themselves
by Andrew Ross Sorkin
Too Big to Fail: The Inside Story of How Wall Street and Washington Fought to Save the Financial System–and Themselves by Andrew Ross Sorkin is a gripping account of the 2008 financial crisis and the extraordinary measures taken to prevent a complete economic collapse. This book delves deep into the world of high finance, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the key players involved in the crisis, including top Wall Street executives, government officials, and regulators.
Sorkin’s meticulous research and unparalleled access to the individuals involved provide a compelling narrative that reads like a thriller. The book offers an in-depth analysis of the decisions made during the crisis, shedding light on the complexities and ethical dilemmas faced by those in power. Too Big to Fail is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of the financial system and the intricate web of relationships that define it. This book about white collar crime is a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked greed and the challenges of regulating a system built on risk and reward.
Final Thoughts on Best White Collar Crime Books
White Collar Crime is a complex and intriguing subject that has captivated the minds of many readers. The 20 best books about white collar crime offer a deep dive into the world of corporate fraud, embezzlement, and other white collar criminal activities. From riveting true crime stories to insightful analyses of the psychology behind white collar crime, these books provide a comprehensive understanding of this fascinating topic. Whether you’re a legal professional, a true crime enthusiast, or simply curious about the darker side of the corporate world, these books are sure to captivate and educate. Dive into the world of white collar crime with these compelling reads and uncover the secrets and scandals that have shaped the business landscape.
Which book about White Collar Crime is best?
The best book on White Collar Crime can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou,
- The Spider Network: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History by David Enrich,
- The Chickenshit Club: Why the Justice Department Fails to Prosecute Executives by Jesse Eisinger.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about White Collar Crime?
For those looking to learn about White Collar Crime, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou,
- The Spider Network: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History by David Enrich,
- The Chickenshit Club: Why the Justice Department Fails to Prosecute Executives by Jesse Eisinger,
- The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind,
- The Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World by Tom Wright and Bradley Hope,
- No One Would Listen: A True Financial Thriller by Harry Markopolos,
- The Informant: A True Story by Kurt Eichenwald,
- The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust by Diana B. Henriques,
- The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis,
- Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man’s Fight for Justice by Bill Browder
These books offer a range of perspectives on White Collar Crime, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books about White Collar Crime?
The best books about White Collar Crime are:
- Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou,
- The Spider Network: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History by David Enrich,
- The Fixer: The Notorious Life of a Front-Page Bail Bondsman by Ira Judelson,
- The Wolf of Wall Street by Jordan Belfort,
- The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust by Diana B. Henriques,
- No One Would Listen: A True Financial Thriller by Harry Markopolos.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about White Collar Crime are highly regarded, itโs important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best White Collar Crime books of all time?
Choosing the best White Collar Crime books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include
- Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou,
- The Spider Network: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History by David Enrich,
- The Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World by Tom Wright and Bradley Hope,
- The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust by Diana B. Henriques,
- and The Fixer: The Notorious Life of a Front-Page Bail Bondsman by Ira Judelson.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of White Collar Crime and continues to be influential today.