So a big, thick almost-500-page book about finance and economics sounds boring, yes?

It kind of is, unless you’re into that kind of thing. Fortunately, I am.

You know what sucks? Being in the middle of a fascinating debate about the economic recovery (or lack thereof? You’ll have to keep reading to find out) and realizing you don’t have the goods to back up your case. I hate feeling stupid.

The worst part is, I didn’t have to be caught unprepared. My bad. I headed straight to the bookstore to get some better background on what exactly went wrong with the economy, the financial system, the Lehman Brothers, and all that fun stuff.

And you know what? It’s REALLY FUCKING COMPLICATED. Do you know what a credit-default swap is? Yes? Well, congratulations, you don’t need to read this book. For the rest of you, start reading After the Music Stopped: the Financial Crisis, the Response, and the Work Ahead by Alan S. Blinder. And keep your computer handy because, unless you have a minor in economics, you’ll be looking up more than a few words.

Don’t worry, it’s not impossible to understand. Actually, Blinder does an excellent job of detailing exactly what went wrong with the economy, what led up to it and what the fallout means for our future. And considering the topic, he does an even better job of making it interesting. But let me be clear: You really need to be interested in this topic if you’re going to enjoy this book. Otherwise, put it down, save your money.

Bitch Rating: 2.5 out of 4 bitches — well done!

Title: After the Music Stopped: The Financial Crisis, the Response, and the Work Ahead

Author: Alan S. Blinder

Publisher: The Penguin Press

Length: 476 pages (hardcover)