Discover a new way to read classics with Quick Read.
This Quick Read edition includes both the full text and a summary for each chapter.
- Reading time of the complete text: about 18 hours
- Reading time of the summarized text: about 1 hour

"The Financier" is a novel by Theodore Dreiser, inspired by the life of Charles Yerkes, a streetcar tycoon. The story follows Frank Cowperwood, who starts his financial journey by making a profitable deal with soap and later becomes involved in investment and misuse of municipal funds. The Great Chicago Fire leads to his bankruptcy and exposure, and he attempts to avoid jail time through intimidation. The novel includes historical references to figures like Abraham Lincoln and events such as the Battle of Gettysburg. Dreiser modeled the main character after Charles Yerkes and alludes to various artworks and musical preferences of the characters. The book also references literary works like "Jane Eyre" and "Macbeth." Overall, "The Financier" provides a captivating portrayal of financial intrigue and historical context.