Buffet the making of an American Capitalist by Roger Lowenstein is actually a tribute to the strange ways of Warren Buffet. If you are looking for some tips to make it to the Forbes list, strictly this is not the place. The book is about the personal aspects of this super rich American like how he started off his first business of pin ball vending machines, the days he worked as a newspaper boy, his affection to his home town Omaha, his obsession of studying various company balance sheets, his favorite drink Cherry Coke and so on…
Some of the contents are mentioned as follows;
The story behind Berkshire Hathaway, how he diversified from textile to insurance, media etc. Buffet’s relationship with Ben Graham and his teachings. How Buffet was concerned about his children getting spoiled of his enormous wealth. Buffets dislike towards personal jets and other kind of luxury. His passion for piling up wealth and who strictly follows the manthra “Never Lose Money”
How much he is bothered about acquiring and not at all getting rid of what he has acquired. Buffet’s toughness or lack of emotions, which strained his relation with his immediate family. The fact that he got married twice. His daughter and husband had to stay at a rented out apartment when Buffet was considered one of the richest American ( a bit too cruel ). The truth that all the fortune he accumulated didn’t make him immune to family problems. Buffet’s plan to donate 85% of his wealth to Bill and Emelda Gates foundation
The author uses lot of share market terms and some reader may find it a bit hard to digest. And you may have to put in some extra effort to actually complete the book. And if you think the Buffet way, one will really think whether the book is worth the price you pay.