The Many Lives of Michael Bloomberg

Innovation, Money, and Politics

By: Eleanor Randolph

Narrated by: Steven Jay Cohen

This authoritative and anecdote-filled biography of Michael Bloomberg—2020 presidential candidate and one of the richest and famously private/public figures in the country—is a “masterful work…[and] an absolutely first-rate study of leadership in business, politics, and philanthropy” (Doris Kearns Goodwin, Pulitzer Prize­–winning author) from a veteran New York Times reporter.

Michael Bloomberg’s life sounds like an exaggerated version of The American Story, except his adventures are real.

From modest Jewish middle class (and Eagle Scout) to Harvard MBA to Salomon Brothers hot shot (where he gets “sent upstairs” and later fired) to creator of the Bloomberg terminal, a machine that would change Wall Street and the financial universe and make him a billionaire, to presidential candidate in 2020, Randolph’s account of Bloomberg’s life reads almost like a novel.

“A vivid, timely study of Bloomberg’s brand of plutocracy” (Publishers Weekly), this engaging and insightful biography recounts Mayor Bloomberg’s vigorous approach to New York City’s care—including his attempts at education reform, anti-smoking and anti-obesity campaigns, climate control, and new developments across the city.

After he engineered a surprising third term as Mayor, Bloomberg returned to his business and philanthropies that focused increasingly on cities. The chapter that describes this is one of the most revealing of his temperament and energy and vision as well as how he spends his “private” time that was virtually off-limits even when he was mayor.

Bloomberg promised to give away his money before he died, and his giving has focused on education, gun control, and a fighting climate change. He joined the 2020 presidential campaign as a moderate liberal and spent his millions focused on ousting President Donald Trump.

Terrific book and well written. Enormous insight.

Overall book was excellent. This was a very fair assessment of the performance and achievements as a student, in business and as mayor.

Great Narration!

Engrossing story and Cohen’s narration was beyond reproach.
Too bad the sock puppets trashed his narration!

Best Mayor of all TIME!

Growing up in NYC specifically The Bronx, you get to see the stark difference between the rich and poor. This mayor had an ego that worked. He knew if he couldn’t get it done no one could. It was the right type of NY mentality that was needed. I experienced his tenure and admired his radical approach to tackling these tasks. I am certain that stop and frisk saved many lives. I want to be hopeful that the city helps with the cruise ships for homeless to be temporary homes while they find full time solutions. Anything is better than homeless shelters in The Bronx (worst experience of my life). Mike should have been President the guy is such a Maverick.

LONG - but a GREAT listen!

Didn't know all that he has accomplished. Someone who cares about others ... REALLY giving back!

Book is good. Narration is so incredibly bad.

I literally know third graders who can do a better time narrating a book. The content of the book is good / fine / balanced, but wow. Buy the written copy!