Big Numbers
by Jack Getze
Published by Hillard Harris (April release)
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Reviewed by Connie Anderson
Author Jack Getze had his first newspaper byline at age 19, wrote economic and financial news for both LA Times and LA Herald Examiner, and later sold stocks and bonds.
So this first-time author wrote about what he knew: the people in the financial services industry and their clients.
What if everyone had the kind of clients down-and-out Austin Carr did?
The story starts with a bang--or more accurately, a splash--and then takes us back to how Carr got himself in this watery "predicament."
Is it because he doesn't always think--or that he thinks with another part of his body?
Is it because of lack of regular child support payments (his wife kicked his wandering lustful butt out) and he needs money bad so he can pay her, and see his kids--without the fear of being arrested?
Is it because his biggest (all 300 plus pounds) client is REALLY upset about the financial bath Carr's advice has caused?
Or could it be because his most successful client is terminally ill, and Carr is dying to get to know his widow better--sooner rather than later?
Big Numbers has wonderful characters, some you'll hate, other you'll admire. His boss loves to play golf and likes Carr because he is a lucky at golf. Luis is his best buddy and one who feeds him food and drink at his Mexican restaurant. The sales manager from hell (owner's future son-in-laws) despises Carr and thwarts him at every turn. Payback is...
Living in the luxury of an aging camper truck, Carr can move his "address" as is demanded by what level of protection he needs at the moment--and depending on who is after him.
The author knows about stocks and bonds, fishing, food, wackos and women. With that combination, what can go wrong? A lot for bumbling Carr--but great for us.
Big Numbers is well-written, entertaining and wonderfully exhausting--I tried to follow the trail to the who and why, taking many wrong turns.
Armchair Interview says: Austin Carr was in trouble by choice or chance almost the entire book, making it a good read.
Author's Web site: http://www.JackGetze.com