Buffett

July 31, 1995
By picking the right stocks and businesses to invest in, plainspoken Nebraskan Warren Buffett became the richest man in the U.S. In this excellent biography, Wall Street Journal reporter Lowenstein details the billionaire stock market wizard's strategy of betting on the long-term growth of a handful of successful companies such as American Express and Berkshire Hathaway. Providing personal glimpses of a very private man, Lowenstein unearths childhood traumas such as the tormenting rages of Buffett's mother and his forced relocation to Washington, D.C., in 1943, where, at 13, he ran away from home (he was found by the police the next day). Buffett's wife, Susan Thompson, a nightclub singer, walked out on him in 1977 and was quickly replaced by his mistress, Latvian-born Astrid Menks. Lowenstein profiles an emotionally guarded, ``strangely stunted'' Midas obsessed with work and secrecy, who seemingly derives little pleasure from his fabulous wealth. Photos not seen by PW. Author tour.

For investment amateurs and professionals, this audio program is an inspiration and an insight into one of America's foremost investment leaders--Warren Buffett. Lurie grabs your attention as he walks you through Buffett's first entrepreneurial successes. The details about Buffett's bold corporate buying and selling strategies are an education themselves. Lurie narrates superbly with subtle introductions and background music. Author Lowenstein did a remarkable job investigating the business and financial backgrounds of one of America's wealthiest icons. A must read/listen for any business entrepreneur and investor. You will be inspired! J.A.A. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine