20 best books on the mortgage crisis – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you looking for a comprehensive understanding of the mortgage crisis? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the 20 best books about the mortgage crisis that will take you on a deep dive into this crucial period in history. From in-depth analyses to personal accounts, each book on the mortgage crisis offers a unique perspective on the events that shaped the global economy. Whether you’re a finance enthusiast or simply curious about the topic, these mortgage crisis books are a must-read!


The Big Short

by Michael Lewis

Are you ready to dive into the outrageous world of finance and explore the jaw-dropping events that led to the infamous mortgage crisis? Strap yourself in for a wild ride with The Big Short by Michael Lewis, a captivating book that will leave you both shocked and enlightened.

Too Big to Fail

by Andrew Ross Sorkin

Too Big to Fail by Andrew Ross Sorkin is an electrifying book on the cataclysmic events that unfolded during the financial meltdown of 2008, also known as the ‘mortgage crisis’. Sorkin, a renowned journalist and financial expert, takes readers on a heart-pounding journey through the corridors of power, giving an insider’s perspective on the decisions made by the key players in the financial industry during this tumultuous period.

The Subprime Solution

by Robert J. Shiller

The Subprime Solution by Robert J. Shiller is a captivating book on the mortgage crisis that took the world by storm. Shiller, an esteemed economist, delves deep into the heart of the financial turmoil, offering a fresh perspective on what caused the meltdown and how we can prevent it from happening again. This compelling book about the mortgage crisis is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the housing market and the factors that led to its collapse. Shiller’s expertise shines through as he explores the subprime mortgage market, the role of speculative bubbles, and the psychology behind the crisis. With his insightful analysis and engaging writing style, Shiller provides a comprehensive overview of the mortgage crisis that will leave readers with a newfound understanding of this pivotal moment in economic history.

All the Devils Are Here

by Bethany McLean and Joe Nocera

All the Devils Are Here is a captivating exploration of the tumultuous events that led to the 2008 financial meltdown. Written by Bethany McLean and Joe Nocera, this riveting book delves deep into the dark underbelly of the housing market, offering a comprehensive and eye-opening account of the mortgage crisis.

The Greatest Trade Ever

by Gregory Zuckerman

The Greatest Trade Ever, written by Gregory Zuckerman, is a captivating book that delves into the tumultuous world of the mortgage crisis. This riveting narrative takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the gripping events that unfolded during this financial catastrophe. Zuckerman’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling bring to life the intense atmosphere of Wall Street, where a few brilliant individuals saw an opportunity amidst the chaos.

Within these pages, Zuckerman uncovers the true story of how a handful of savvy investors recognized the impending doom of the mortgage crisis while others remained oblivious. These individuals, often dismissed and ridiculed by their peers, demonstrated incredible foresight and audacity as they devised a plan to profit from the impending collapse.

Through vivid descriptions and in-depth interviews, Zuckerman introduces us to characters like John Paulson, an eccentric hedge fund manager who bet against the housing market and ended up making billions. He reveals the remarkable lengths these investors went to in order to uncover the truth behind the precarious state of the mortgage industry, often facing resistance and skepticism along the way.

With its gripping narrative and meticulous attention to detail, The Greatest Trade Ever encapsulates the essence of a financial crisis and the high-stakes world of Wall Street. Zuckerman’s ability to make complex financial concepts accessible and exciting ensures that even readers without prior knowledge of the mortgage crisis will be enthralled by this tale of risk and reward.

If you’re looking for a captivating book about the mortgage crisis, this is the one for you. Zuckerman’s expertise as a financial journalist shines through as he weaves together a gripping account of the events that shaped the financial landscape and forever changed the lives of those involved. Prepare to be enthralled by this remarkable story of triumph amidst the chaos of the mortgage crisis.

Bailout Nation

by Barry Ritholtz

Bailout Nation is a gripping and eye-opening book on the tumultuous events surrounding the financial meltdown of 2008. This remarkable piece of literature delves into the heart of the economic catastrophe and unravels the intricacies of the mortgage crisis, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the events that shaped our world.

Reckless Endangerment

by Gretchen Morgenson and Joshua Rosner

Reckless Endangerment is a captivating book that delves deep into the world-altering calamity known as the mortgage crisis. This enthralling piece of literature, penned by the brilliant minds of Gretchen Morgenson and Joshua Rosner, offers a thought-provoking analysis of the events that led to the catastrophic collapse of the housing market.

The Sellout

by Charles Gasparino

The Sellout by Charles Gasparino is a captivating exposé on the tumultuous world of Wall Street during the infamous meltdown of the housing market. This gripping book unveils the sordid details behind the mortgage crisis, shedding light on the greed, corruption, and deceit that defined the era.

The Housing Boom and Bust

by Thomas Sowell

The Housing Boom and Bust by Thomas Sowell is an eye-opening book that delves into the tumultuous rollercoaster ride of the real estate market. Don’t be fooled by its unassuming title, because this is not just any ordinary book about the mortgage crisis. It is a captivating exploration of the rise and fall of the housing market, a gripping account of the financial storm that shook the world. Sowell’s insightful analysis cuts through the jargon and intricacies of the mortgage crisis, offering readers a clear understanding of the factors that led to the catastrophic collapse. This isn’t just a book on the mortgage crisis, it is the mortgage crisis book, shedding light on the greed, deception, and human folly that played a pivotal role in this economic catastrophe. So, buckle up and prepare to be captivated by this riveting journey through the highs and lows of the real estate market.

The Two Trillion Dollar Meltdown

by Charles R. Morris

The Two Trillion Dollar Meltdown by Charles R. Morris is an eye-opening book about the cataclysmic housing market collapse that sent shockwaves through the global economy. It delves deep into the labyrinthine world of finance, exploring the intricate web of risky loans, complex derivatives, and predatory lending practices that ultimately led to the largest financial crisis since the Great Depression.

This gripping account of the mortgage crisis uncovers the dark underbelly of Wall Street, revealing the greed, incompetence, and unchecked risk-taking that fueled the collapse. Morris expertly dissects the intricate financial instruments that were at the heart of the crisis, explaining complex concepts in a way that is accessible to both finance professionals and casual readers.

Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Morris paints a vivid picture of the key players and events that brought the global economy to its knees. From the subprime mortgage market to the collapse of Lehman Brothers, he illuminates the interconnectedness of the financial system and the devastating consequences of its unraveling.

This book is not just a dry examination of numbers and charts; it is a gripping narrative that reads like a thriller. Morris brings the characters to life, from the reckless CEOs of major banks to the overwhelmed regulators who failed to prevent the crisis. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the next shocking revelation.

The Two Trillion Dollar Meltdown is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the intricate web of factors that led to the mortgage crisis. Whether you are a finance professional looking for a comprehensive analysis or a curious reader wanting to peel back the layers of the financial world, this book will leave you with a deeper understanding of the tumultuous events that shaped our modern economy.

The Foreclosure of America

by Adam Michaelson

The Foreclosure of America by Adam Michaelson is a captivating book that delves deep into the tumultuous world of the mortgage crisis. Dubbed as a ‘book on the mortgage crisis’, it uncovers the shocking truths and untold stories behind one of the most devastating financial meltdowns in history. Michaelson’s masterful storytelling skillfully weaves together personal narratives, economic analysis, and investigative journalism to create a comprehensive and compelling account of this catastrophic event.

In this thought-provoking ‘book about the mortgage crisis’, Michaelson explores the root causes, the players involved, and the far-reaching consequences of the crisis. With meticulous research and an engaging narrative style, he sheds light on the predatory lending practices, Wall Street greed, and government negligence that fueled the collapse of the housing market.

Through the lens of real people who lost their homes, Michaelson humanizes the statistics and puts a face to the devastating impacts of the mortgage crisis. Their stories of financial ruin, shattered dreams, and resilience serve as a powerful reminder of the human toll behind the headlines.

Far from being a dry economic analysis, The Foreclosure of America is a gripping tale of greed, corruption, and the fight for justice. Michaelson’s impeccable storytelling draws readers in, making this ‘the mortgage crisis book’ a page-turner that educates, enlightens, and infuriates in equal measure.

Whether you are an expert in finance or simply curious about the events that led to the mortgage crisis, this book is a must-read. With its incisive analysis, compelling narratives, and powerful storytelling, The Foreclosure of America offers a nuanced understanding of the mortgage crisis that will leave you questioning the very foundations of our financial system.

Chain of Blame

by Paul Muolo and Mathew Padilla

Chain of Blame is a gripping and eye-opening book that delves deep into the intricate web of deceit and corruption that led to the catastrophic mortgage crisis. This spellbinding account by Paul Muolo and Mathew Padilla pulls back the curtain on the dark side of the housing market, offering a comprehensive and chilling look at the events that triggered the financial meltdown.

Described as a ‘book on the mortgage crisis’, ‘book about the mortgage crisis’, and ‘the mortgage crisis book’, Chain of Blame uncovers the intricate chain of players and institutions responsible for the collapse of the housing market. With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Muolo and Padilla expose the greed, negligence, and hubris that permeated Wall Street, Main Street, and all levels of government.

Through interviews with key insiders, such as mortgage brokers, bank executives, regulators, and homeowners, the authors provide a multi-dimensional perspective on the crisis. They reveal how predatory lending practices, fraudulent mortgage applications, and the securitization of subprime loans created a ticking time bomb that eventually exploded, devastating millions of lives and sending shockwaves through the global economy.

Chain of Blame is not just a dry analysis of numbers and policies; it is a riveting narrative that reads like a thriller. Muolo and Padilla skillfully interweave personal stories of victims and perpetrators, bringing to life the human cost of the crisis. From the devastation of foreclosures to the lavish lifestyles of Wall Street executives, the book paints a vivid picture of a system on the brink of collapse.

Whether you are a finance professional, a concerned citizen, or simply someone who wants to understand the complex forces behind the mortgage crisis, Chain of Blame is a must-read. With its engaging prose and meticulous research, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression and inspire a call for accountability in the financial industry.

The Monster

by Michael W. Hudson

The Monster by Michael W. Hudson is a captivating book about the financial catastrophe that shook the world: the mortgage meltdown. This compelling read takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the labyrinth of Wall Street, exposing the dark underbelly of greed, corruption, and deceit. Hudson’s meticulous research and eye-opening revelations will leave you spellbound as you delve into the depths of the housing market collapse. Brace yourself for a gripping account that unravels the intricate web of subprime mortgages, predatory lending, and the insidious practices that led to the economic devastation. This is not just a book on the mortgage crisis; it is a must-read exposé that shines a light on the sinister forces that orchestrated the downfall of the global economy. Prepare to be enlightened, enraged, and ultimately empowered as you navigate the treacherous terrain of The Monster.

The End of Wall Street

by Roger Lowenstein

The End of Wall Street by Roger Lowenstein is a captivating book on the mortgage crisis that shook the financial world. It delves into the intricate web of events that led to one of the most significant economic disasters in recent history. Lowenstein masterfully unravels the complexities of the mortgage crisis, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contributed to its devastating effects. With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, this book about the mortgage crisis offers an eye-opening account of a tumultuous time in the financial industry. Whether you are a seasoned investor or simply curious about the inner workings of Wall Street, The End of Wall Street is a must-read for anyone seeking to comprehend the underlying causes of the mortgage crisis. Prepare to be enthralled by this thought-provoking narrative that sheds light on the dark corners of the financial world.

The Quants

by Scott Patterson

The Quants by Scott Patterson is a captivating book that delves into the tumultuous world of Wall Street during the financial meltdown, offering an insightful perspective on the book about the mortgage crisis. Through the lens of the fascinating individuals known as “quants,” Patterson takes readers on a thrilling journey through the high-stakes world of quantitative trading. These mathematicians and computer scientists developed complex algorithms to predict the movements of the stock market, unknowingly playing a significant role in the book on the mortgage crisis.

The Betrayal of American Prosperity

by Clyde Prestowitz

The Betrayal of American Prosperity is a captivating book on the mortgage crisis that delves deep into the roots of America’s economic downfall. Clyde Prestowitz, an esteemed economist, presents a thought-provoking analysis of this catastrophic event that shook the nation to its core.

This book about the mortgage crisis takes readers on a journey through the intricate web of factors that led to the collapse of the housing market and the subsequent financial turmoil. Prestowitz skillfully unravels the complexities of the crisis, shedding light on the role played by banks, Wall Street, and government policies.

In this eye-opening account, Prestowitz exposes the betrayal of American prosperity, highlighting how the pursuit of short-term gains and irresponsible practices ultimately led to the devastating consequences that affected millions of Americans. By examining the systemic failures that allowed the mortgage crisis to occur, he challenges readers to question the foundations of our economic system.

With meticulous research and a clear narrative, Prestowitz provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the mortgage crisis and its far-reaching impact on the American economy. By delving into the intricate details and offering insightful analysis, this book serves as an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to comprehend the complexities of this pivotal moment in history.

The Betrayal of American Prosperity is not just a book on the mortgage crisis; it is a wake-up call for a nation that must learn from its mistakes and chart a path towards a more sustainable and equitable future. Through its pages, Prestowitz challenges us to question the prevailing economic paradigms and work towards a system that prioritizes the well-being of all Americans. This is the mortgage crisis book that will leave readers with a renewed sense of urgency and a determination to shape a better tomorrow.

The Unraveling

by David A. Moss

The Unraveling is a captivating book on the mortgage crisis that takes readers on a thought-provoking journey into the heart of one of the most significant financial disasters in history. Written by David A. Moss, this compelling narrative sheds light on the intricate web of events that led to the unraveling of the housing market and the subsequent economic downturn.

The Great American Stickup

by Robert Scheer

The Great American Stickup by Robert Scheer is a captivating book that delves into the heart-wrenching tale of the housing catastrophe that shook the United States to its core. This gripping account offers an unflinching examination of the events that led to the devastating collapse of the housing market, exposing the greed, corruption, and systemic failures that allowed the financial industry to exploit millions of homeowners. Through meticulous research and an engaging narrative, Scheer reveals the shocking truth behind the mortgage crisis, painting a vivid picture of the individuals and institutions responsible for this economic catastrophe. With its insightful analysis and compelling storytelling, this book on the mortgage crisis is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the dark underbelly of the American dream.

The Mortgage Wars

by David Kinney

The Mortgage Wars: A Gripping Account of the Housing Meltdown

Step into the chaotic world of Wall Street and witness the unfolding drama of the mortgage crisis in The Mortgage Wars by David Kinney. This captivating non-fiction book delves into the heart of the financial meltdown, providing readers with a front-row seat to the high-stakes battles waged by bankers, regulators, and homeowners.

With meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Kinney offers a comprehensive exploration of the events leading up to the mortgage crisis. From the predatory lending practices that fueled the housing bubble to the reckless risk-taking of big banks, he paints a vivid picture of the greed and hubris that brought the global economy to its knees.

But The Mortgage Wars is not just a dry examination of numbers and policies. Kinney brings this complex financial saga to life by focusing on the individuals caught in its crosshairs. Through interviews with homeowners facing foreclosure, whistleblowers exposing fraudulent practices, and Wall Street insiders grappling with the moral implications of their actions, he humanizes the crisis and adds a compelling human element to the narrative.

As you turn the pages of this gripping account, you’ll find yourself immersed in the high-stakes world of mortgage-backed securities, credit default swaps, and regulatory battles. Kinney’s ability to explain complex financial concepts in a clear and engaging manner ensures that readers of all backgrounds can grasp the magnitude of the crisis and its far-reaching impact.

Whether you’re a finance enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the events that shook the global economy, The Mortgage Wars is a must-read. Kinney’s masterful storytelling and in-depth analysis make this book a spellbinding journey through the tumultuous landscape of the mortgage crisis.

The Lost Bank

by Kirsten Grind

The Lost Bank by Kirsten Grind is a captivating book about the mortgage crisis that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the tumultuous world of banking and finance. Grind’s meticulously researched and expertly crafted narrative delves deep into the heart of the mortgage crisis, exposing the shocking truth behind the collapse of one of America’s largest banks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about the mortgage crisis offer a deep dive into the events that shook the global economy. From expert analysis to personal narratives, these books provide valuable insights into the causes, consequences, and lessons learned from the crisis. Whether you’re a finance enthusiast, an aspiring homeowner, or simply interested in understanding one of the most significant economic events of our time, these books are a must-read. So, grab a copy and embark on a journey through the intricate world of the mortgage crisis.