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The Big Print: What Happened To America And How Sound Money Will Fix It
Most Americans — and people worldwide — understand that despite our remarkable technological advances, something is deeply wrong with the direction of our country and world. There are a variety of causes but Mr. Lepard believes, and wrote this book because, too many are missing the one, principal underlying The Money Is Broken.
Through his own personal story, and tracing the history of how we find ourselves in this condition, he explains in layman’s terms what happened, why it is wrong, and how we can fix it.
This book addresses the pressing issues of inflation and wealth inequality and points out that we do not need to suffer with these ills. It is a call to action for people of all ages and political persuasions. Sound money and personal freedoms are what built the America, that post-World War II, was widely admired and stood at the pinnacle of the world. Sadly, we have drifted away from the principles that took us there.
The book also discusses today’s investment climate, the threats that savers face, and the likely path of markets over the next decade. There is a warning here. There will be winners and losers. The monetary transition engulfing us will create enormous changes, but we have many reasons for optimism. New technological developments and trends are taking us to a much better world.
Understanding our monetary system is the key to solving today's global challenges. This book reveals why our future depends on one critical
FIX THE MONEY to
FIX THE WORLD
Through his own personal story, and tracing the history of how we find ourselves in this condition, he explains in layman’s terms what happened, why it is wrong, and how we can fix it.
This book addresses the pressing issues of inflation and wealth inequality and points out that we do not need to suffer with these ills. It is a call to action for people of all ages and political persuasions. Sound money and personal freedoms are what built the America, that post-World War II, was widely admired and stood at the pinnacle of the world. Sadly, we have drifted away from the principles that took us there.
The book also discusses today’s investment climate, the threats that savers face, and the likely path of markets over the next decade. There is a warning here. There will be winners and losers. The monetary transition engulfing us will create enormous changes, but we have many reasons for optimism. New technological developments and trends are taking us to a much better world.
Understanding our monetary system is the key to solving today's global challenges. This book reveals why our future depends on one critical
FIX THE MONEY to
FIX THE WORLD
381 pages, Paperback
Published February 3, 2025
356 people are currently reading
842 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
August 24, 2025
I think I understand interest rates now. They're a way the market sets the value of money, meaning that if I want to borrow to invest in my business that I estimate would generate 10% profit, it would make sense for me to borrow with 5 % interest rate. The 5% is the value of money here. It would not make sense for me to borrow with 20% interest rate. Thus the interest rate set by the markets determines the efficiency of the investments being made by the borrowed money. The problem is, these interest rates are not set by the market but by central agencies, i.e. The FED or ECB in the Eurozone.
One result from this arrangement has been the boom and bust cycles when the central agencies set very low interest rates (close to zero percent) and lend out very cheap money that fuels foolish investment, giving the appearance of a boom, creating artificial bubbles of fake wealth. Then, when time goes by and it becomes evident these investments will lead nowhere and will produce nothing of value, the bubble burst and a cycle of busts, joblessness and loss of wealth follows. The housing bubble of 2008 or the dotcom bubble of 2000 would be examples of this. The central planners can set the interest rate as low as 0% and as high as 20%, which they have done before.
At the same time these central planners create endless money out of nothing by writing numbers into a computer, thus expanding the money supply and devaluing the worth of a dollar or euro for everyone else, i.e. causing inflation. Lucky for the central planners they found themselves a really big brain intellectual whose name was John Maynard Keynes. His main thesis was that spending fuels inflation because people know that their money is being devalued day-by-day, year-by-year and it would be pointless to save the money and thus they spend more, keeping the money in circulation and fueling the economy. According to this theory, during deflation of the money supply, there would be an economic crisis as prices of goods fall and spending halters because people want to save as their savings gain value and thus they spend less. This is actually false because in the 19th century there were were several decades of periods of deflation of nearly 50%, that saw dramatic improvements in living standards rather than an economic crisis. Furthermore, in reality people will always continue spending as they need food, comforts, entertainment etc. etc. and especially when prices of all of these keep falling and the value of people's investments keep growing. But, of course, reality means nothing for big brain insane intellectuals.
Anyway Keynes is behind all of today's government ideology of how economies and money theory works, they print money endlessly out of nothing and tell you that is good for everyone while the common man has to work for every one of his dollars. Then they tax the shit out of the earnings the man worked for and tell you it's good for you or the society would collapse. Then they create endless money with a few clicks, share it with their financial and political buddies who in turn send a few percent back to them and they all live their corrupt little sinful lives.
End of story.....
Actually now we have bitcoin, its good, buy bitcoin, it ends all that government issued money shit and we can get back to a low time preference society with beautiful timeless architecture, good healthy food, less or no wars and minimal government control and corruption.
For those who claim that bitcoin is too volatile, there's the Sharpe ratio, which is a number that tells you whether the return of an asset is worth the risk it involves. Generally Bitcoin's Sharpe ratio is much better that other traditional investment assets, like S&P 500 for example so Bitcoin can be volatile but that doesn't mean the risk is not worth it.
One result from this arrangement has been the boom and bust cycles when the central agencies set very low interest rates (close to zero percent) and lend out very cheap money that fuels foolish investment, giving the appearance of a boom, creating artificial bubbles of fake wealth. Then, when time goes by and it becomes evident these investments will lead nowhere and will produce nothing of value, the bubble burst and a cycle of busts, joblessness and loss of wealth follows. The housing bubble of 2008 or the dotcom bubble of 2000 would be examples of this. The central planners can set the interest rate as low as 0% and as high as 20%, which they have done before.
At the same time these central planners create endless money out of nothing by writing numbers into a computer, thus expanding the money supply and devaluing the worth of a dollar or euro for everyone else, i.e. causing inflation. Lucky for the central planners they found themselves a really big brain intellectual whose name was John Maynard Keynes. His main thesis was that spending fuels inflation because people know that their money is being devalued day-by-day, year-by-year and it would be pointless to save the money and thus they spend more, keeping the money in circulation and fueling the economy. According to this theory, during deflation of the money supply, there would be an economic crisis as prices of goods fall and spending halters because people want to save as their savings gain value and thus they spend less. This is actually false because in the 19th century there were were several decades of periods of deflation of nearly 50%, that saw dramatic improvements in living standards rather than an economic crisis. Furthermore, in reality people will always continue spending as they need food, comforts, entertainment etc. etc. and especially when prices of all of these keep falling and the value of people's investments keep growing. But, of course, reality means nothing for big brain insane intellectuals.
Anyway Keynes is behind all of today's government ideology of how economies and money theory works, they print money endlessly out of nothing and tell you that is good for everyone while the common man has to work for every one of his dollars. Then they tax the shit out of the earnings the man worked for and tell you it's good for you or the society would collapse. Then they create endless money with a few clicks, share it with their financial and political buddies who in turn send a few percent back to them and they all live their corrupt little sinful lives.
End of story.....
Actually now we have bitcoin, its good, buy bitcoin, it ends all that government issued money shit and we can get back to a low time preference society with beautiful timeless architecture, good healthy food, less or no wars and minimal government control and corruption.
For those who claim that bitcoin is too volatile, there's the Sharpe ratio, which is a number that tells you whether the return of an asset is worth the risk it involves. Generally Bitcoin's Sharpe ratio is much better that other traditional investment assets, like S&P 500 for example so Bitcoin can be volatile but that doesn't mean the risk is not worth it.
July 25, 2025
In this highly accessible history of economics book, Larry Lepard eloquently and gracefully makes the case for a return to a sound money system.
Before the book came out, I heard the author speak at several bitcoin conferences. So I knew I wanted to read it. Larry is a clear and endearing storyteller who makes economic and financial concepts easy to understand. This serves well his ultimate argument that we must reform our corrupt monetary system controlled by central banks (primarily The Federal Reserve).
He does this by weaving historical facts with compelling quotes, charts and data tables that prove our monetary system has been rigged our entire lives and puts us in a state of perpetual serfdom. His research is conveniently footnoted at the bottom of the page, rather than at the end of the book which made for deeper reading, if one chooses. I have a feeling I will be frequently reaching for this book to reference many of facts presented to back up the sound money argument.
On top of the great academic and historical lessons in the book, Larry weaves in stories of own family's struggle and scarring from a monetary system beyond their control, as he grew up in a once great manufacturing base in the upper Midwest of America.
Although Larry has been very successful as an investment advisor managing his and other people's monies, he has had his share of bad calls along the way which have tempered him and his writing style with grace and humility. This book demonstrates he knows the value of money and that there are things in life more important than money.
His stories from having a front row seat at the microprocessor (1980's) and Internet (1990's) revolutions are worth reading just by themselves.
Upon finishing the book, not only do I feel more educated about monetary history, the importance of sound money, the wickedness of inflation and the hope of Bitcoin, I feel like a friend to Larry.
This makes the book a remarkable and accessible history of recent economic events that is really a personal tale about what led him to value hard money for himself and for the World.
Before the book came out, I heard the author speak at several bitcoin conferences. So I knew I wanted to read it. Larry is a clear and endearing storyteller who makes economic and financial concepts easy to understand. This serves well his ultimate argument that we must reform our corrupt monetary system controlled by central banks (primarily The Federal Reserve).
He does this by weaving historical facts with compelling quotes, charts and data tables that prove our monetary system has been rigged our entire lives and puts us in a state of perpetual serfdom. His research is conveniently footnoted at the bottom of the page, rather than at the end of the book which made for deeper reading, if one chooses. I have a feeling I will be frequently reaching for this book to reference many of facts presented to back up the sound money argument.
On top of the great academic and historical lessons in the book, Larry weaves in stories of own family's struggle and scarring from a monetary system beyond their control, as he grew up in a once great manufacturing base in the upper Midwest of America.
Although Larry has been very successful as an investment advisor managing his and other people's monies, he has had his share of bad calls along the way which have tempered him and his writing style with grace and humility. This book demonstrates he knows the value of money and that there are things in life more important than money.
His stories from having a front row seat at the microprocessor (1980's) and Internet (1990's) revolutions are worth reading just by themselves.
Upon finishing the book, not only do I feel more educated about monetary history, the importance of sound money, the wickedness of inflation and the hope of Bitcoin, I feel like a friend to Larry.
This makes the book a remarkable and accessible history of recent economic events that is really a personal tale about what led him to value hard money for himself and for the World.
February 15, 2025
After following Lawrence’s work for years, I was delighted to see he’d written a book. It’s a solid primer on the fiscal and monetary issues we face and the steps that need to be taken to address them. There was a lot of great intro info on Austrian economics and some info on events during the GFC even I hadn’t heard about.
I’ve read a lot of books on banking crises, money, currencies, etc., this is one to read if you want a solid, personal overview of the sound money situation in America as a whole. I would hope it’s enough to make someone look at their investment situation a little differently — especially as we run a risk of entering an inflationary depression, something most people would think is impossible.
PS - Max Keiser does the foreword, a huge bonus.
I’ve read a lot of books on banking crises, money, currencies, etc., this is one to read if you want a solid, personal overview of the sound money situation in America as a whole. I would hope it’s enough to make someone look at their investment situation a little differently — especially as we run a risk of entering an inflationary depression, something most people would think is impossible.
PS - Max Keiser does the foreword, a huge bonus.
July 2, 2025
An appeal for Bitcoin as the best possible investment by showing the failure of fiat money and the stability of sound money. In other words, the governments ability to print money whenever a crisis hits has a long history of being manipulated for long term damage. In contrast sound money (commodities, miners, and Bitcoin) provides a grounding that allows the free markets to function as they should.
The historical overview of the American financial system was incredible.
Lepard takes an extreme pro-Bitcoin position. It’s almost comical at times but makes for a fun read.
The book is very convincing. Whether or not you embrace the entire Bitcoin conviction, it will almost surely convince you to have a portion of your portfolio in Bitcoin.
The historical overview of the American financial system was incredible.
Lepard takes an extreme pro-Bitcoin position. It’s almost comical at times but makes for a fun read.
The book is very convincing. Whether or not you embrace the entire Bitcoin conviction, it will almost surely convince you to have a portion of your portfolio in Bitcoin.
February 19, 2025
Not just a treatise on Bitcoin and sound money.
Lawrence Lepard poured out his soul in writing The Big Print. This book will serve as classic guide to understanding humanity through the prism of sound money. Bravo!
Lawrence Lepard poured out his soul in writing The Big Print. This book will serve as classic guide to understanding humanity through the prism of sound money. Bravo!
dropped
June 15, 2025Feels like The Bitcoin Standard for normies. The beginning is full of emotional language like "wealth inequality" and "fairness". I understand attacking the left from the left but if the goal is to trick leftists into learning economics then don't start the book off with "bitcoin bitcoin bitcoin".
June 16, 2025
The author tried to maintain the language simple, his emphasis was more on the American economy and i felt that the book is more catered to the American Audience. i wish the world would someday realise that America is not the only country on earth.
content wise i did like the book but some of the American concepts were difficult for me as a person who lived in Australia and India. The points put forward by the author for the benefits of sound money do resonate with my observations.
content wise i did like the book but some of the American concepts were difficult for me as a person who lived in Australia and India. The points put forward by the author for the benefits of sound money do resonate with my observations.
March 10, 2025
Couldn’t put this down, and suggest you pick it up (before it’s too late)!
The book is split into two parts: “The Problem” and “The Solution” – making it easy to follow. In the first part, Lepard digs into what’s gone wrong with America’s money system. He ties big moments—like when the Federal Reserve started or the 2008 financial crisis – to what’s going on now, like rising prices and the gap between rich and poor.
Then, in “The Solution,” he shifts to Bitcoin as a way to fix things. Even if you’ve never understood Bitcoin, don’t worry – Lepard keeps it simple, explaining how it works and why it might matter to everyone. For those already on the Bitcoin path, he throws in some new angles, including recent numbers and stories from his own life as an investor, which keep it interesting.
What I enjoyed about The Big Print is that it doesn’t talk down to you, but it doesn’t feel like a textbook either. Lepard writes in a way that’s easy to read – like a passionate friend discussing things over coffee. He mixes in personal bits too, like how economic cycles have hit his own family. You don’t need a finance degree to get it, but there’s enough here to satisfy someone who does. I also enjoyed (as an Aussie) the relatively strong emphasis on modern American history, which is a focus other books in the genre don’t have.
In all, The Big Print is a good read that makes sense of America’s money troubles and pitches Bitcoin as a real option – while staying relatable and approachable. Whether you’re just starting to wonder about this kind of thing or you’ve been reading about Bitcoin for a while, it’s well worth picking up. You’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what’s going on right now, and a new way of looking at what could come next.
Thanks Larry for the review copy and the read!
The book is split into two parts: “The Problem” and “The Solution” – making it easy to follow. In the first part, Lepard digs into what’s gone wrong with America’s money system. He ties big moments—like when the Federal Reserve started or the 2008 financial crisis – to what’s going on now, like rising prices and the gap between rich and poor.
Then, in “The Solution,” he shifts to Bitcoin as a way to fix things. Even if you’ve never understood Bitcoin, don’t worry – Lepard keeps it simple, explaining how it works and why it might matter to everyone. For those already on the Bitcoin path, he throws in some new angles, including recent numbers and stories from his own life as an investor, which keep it interesting.
What I enjoyed about The Big Print is that it doesn’t talk down to you, but it doesn’t feel like a textbook either. Lepard writes in a way that’s easy to read – like a passionate friend discussing things over coffee. He mixes in personal bits too, like how economic cycles have hit his own family. You don’t need a finance degree to get it, but there’s enough here to satisfy someone who does. I also enjoyed (as an Aussie) the relatively strong emphasis on modern American history, which is a focus other books in the genre don’t have.
In all, The Big Print is a good read that makes sense of America’s money troubles and pitches Bitcoin as a real option – while staying relatable and approachable. Whether you’re just starting to wonder about this kind of thing or you’ve been reading about Bitcoin for a while, it’s well worth picking up. You’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what’s going on right now, and a new way of looking at what could come next.
Thanks Larry for the review copy and the read!
April 25, 2025
This book provided an excellent overview of the broken money system plaguing America. It clearly and succinctly identifies why monetary policy has lead to inflation and devaluation of the dollar over time. It provides important personal insights into the authors’ negative experiences caused by the Fed and discussed why the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer. The middle class is being wiped out, no one can afford houses or college or make ends meet with a dual family income in this current environment. He explains how sound money can solve these issues and explains why Bitcoin is the best performing financial asset of all time.
March 10, 2025
Excellent book!
This book exceeded my expectations, and I’ve already read most of the other notable Bitcoin and Bitcoin-related books. I highly recommend it!
This book exceeded my expectations, and I’ve already read most of the other notable Bitcoin and Bitcoin-related books. I highly recommend it!
September 17, 2025
The Big Print is essential reading for anyone serious about understanding the modern economic system and its dysfunction. If you’ve already studied Bitcoin in depth, the second half of the book probably won’t teach you anything groundbreaking. But the first section, covering the history and consequences of fiat currency debasement, is absolutely worth the price of admission.
Lepard walks the reader through how our financial system was captured by central banking interests beginning in 1913, and how the Federal Reserve has served as the silent architect of most major economic disasters since. What makes this book unique is how clearly it exposes the falsehoods and omissions that are passed off as historical and economic “truth” in mainstream education.
As someone who earned a BS in Economics, I can say firsthand that university-level Econ programs are entirely rooted in Keynesian dogma. You are taught how to simulate economies with equations and dashboards, as if monetary manipulation is just a matter of smart technicians pushing the right buttons. There is no serious critique of the Fed, no alternative frameworks offered, and no room for questioning the legitimacy of fiat currency systems.
The book also tackles how metrics like CPI and GDP are used to prop up faulty narratives and hide the real consequences of monetary abuse. These numbers have become political tools rather than accurate indicators of economic health. Lepard frames this for what it is: a century-long gaslighting campaign by central planners who write the rules, break the system, then write the history books to make themselves look like saviors.
What stood out most to me was how clearly this book shows that monetary policy is not just technical or academic. It is moral. It shapes incentives, rewards bad behavior, punishes savers, and distorts everything from housing markets to healthcare. Fiat is not just a weaker form of money. It is a corrosive influence on everything it touches.
The book closes with a strong endorsement of Bitcoin as the only viable escape hatch. While this will feel familiar to most in the space, Lepard brings a sharp and well-articulated voice that will resonate especially with traditional investors or newcomers trying to make sense of the chaos.
The Big Print should be required reading in every high school and economics department. The reason it’s not is the same reason why no one taught you any of this in the first place: the institutions benefiting from fiat policy cannot afford for young people to learn these truths.
Lepard walks the reader through how our financial system was captured by central banking interests beginning in 1913, and how the Federal Reserve has served as the silent architect of most major economic disasters since. What makes this book unique is how clearly it exposes the falsehoods and omissions that are passed off as historical and economic “truth” in mainstream education.
As someone who earned a BS in Economics, I can say firsthand that university-level Econ programs are entirely rooted in Keynesian dogma. You are taught how to simulate economies with equations and dashboards, as if monetary manipulation is just a matter of smart technicians pushing the right buttons. There is no serious critique of the Fed, no alternative frameworks offered, and no room for questioning the legitimacy of fiat currency systems.
The book also tackles how metrics like CPI and GDP are used to prop up faulty narratives and hide the real consequences of monetary abuse. These numbers have become political tools rather than accurate indicators of economic health. Lepard frames this for what it is: a century-long gaslighting campaign by central planners who write the rules, break the system, then write the history books to make themselves look like saviors.
What stood out most to me was how clearly this book shows that monetary policy is not just technical or academic. It is moral. It shapes incentives, rewards bad behavior, punishes savers, and distorts everything from housing markets to healthcare. Fiat is not just a weaker form of money. It is a corrosive influence on everything it touches.
The book closes with a strong endorsement of Bitcoin as the only viable escape hatch. While this will feel familiar to most in the space, Lepard brings a sharp and well-articulated voice that will resonate especially with traditional investors or newcomers trying to make sense of the chaos.
The Big Print should be required reading in every high school and economics department. The reason it’s not is the same reason why no one taught you any of this in the first place: the institutions benefiting from fiat policy cannot afford for young people to learn these truths.
June 2, 2025
At one point in the book the author argues that a reason why Bitcoin ought to be adopted is because people have a history of criticising technology that eventually changes or impacts the world; for example the internet and tv. It’s a weak argument and entirely unconvincing.
Leonard also claims that the United States government spends $ 1trillion on interest on debt per year. I’ve not researched the point to an academic level, but as far as I can say that’s not true. If this is false, what else is false in the book?
Finally, an argument given for not buying a house, or for why buying a house isn’t a solid investment, is because the author’s sister bought a house during housing bubble, was forced to sell it due to a change in career, and lost 45%. That’s unlucky, but could apply to any asset if bought at the “wrong time” and again is unconvincing.
I’d struggle to recommend this book
Leonard also claims that the United States government spends $ 1trillion on interest on debt per year. I’ve not researched the point to an academic level, but as far as I can say that’s not true. If this is false, what else is false in the book?
Finally, an argument given for not buying a house, or for why buying a house isn’t a solid investment, is because the author’s sister bought a house during housing bubble, was forced to sell it due to a change in career, and lost 45%. That’s unlucky, but could apply to any asset if bought at the “wrong time” and again is unconvincing.
I’d struggle to recommend this book
March 1, 2025
A canonic book of our times!
I truly believe this books brings light to some facts that have been deliberately obfuscated from the public to maintain certain privileges for a political and financial elite.
Read this book now and pass it on, I think it can greatly impact your future in a positive way!
I truly believe this books brings light to some facts that have been deliberately obfuscated from the public to maintain certain privileges for a political and financial elite.
Read this book now and pass it on, I think it can greatly impact your future in a positive way!
November 10, 2025
I'm reluctant to not give this book a higher score. For reference, I am a financial professional, and knowledgeable on the subject matter. I agree with the overwhelming majority of what this book has to say. It is, however, a somewhat flawed book, despite the substantive message being solid.
There is a fair amount of cherry-picked information and timelines here, not always giving a fair shake to opposing arguments (and again, I say this as someone who sides with the argument in the book). It frequently neglects to view past decisions in the context of the time, and to acknowledge that the long-term health of the monetary system was not always the top priority or consideration with every decision the Fed or administrations have made, and I think sometimes unfairly treats some people - particularly some former Fed Chairs- by not considering the totality of circumstances at the time. At almost every given junction, there are more pressing concerns for the Fed or policy makers to address that outweigh the incrementally small damage that is done over time to the monetary system, and even though the long-term stability of the monetary system is of enormous concern and outweighs any of the individual crises at the time, it is understandable why policy makers opt to address the immediate issues despite adding another tiny slit to the death by a thousand cuts of the monetary system. This is particularly true with regards to the merits of fiat money, and the benefits of abandoning the gold standard. It is easy to look back and denigrate past policy makers knowing the state U.S. debt is in now, but a credit crisis would not have been utterly inevitable if countless congressional policy decisions had been more fiscally responsible over the last 50 years.
To be clear - this book is right on point, I just think it doesn't give fair consideration to some of the opposing arguments, and the culpability regarding 100 years of circumstances that landed us here.
My other contention is that a large swath of the book is a closeted Bitcoin promo. It would be a disservice to discuss these issues without devoting at least some conversation to crypto/Bitcoin, but the amount of time spent, and focused exclusively on Bitcoin, doesn't seem warranted given the ostensible title and presentation of the book. If the subtitle has been "What Happened to American and How Bitcoin Can Be A Safe Harbor To You", I wouldn't have this compliant. It just spent too much time on Bitcoin, and often felt more like a sales ad (despite ostensibly disclaiming that notion).
That all being said, if you're not already familiar with this topic, YOU SHOULD READ THIS BOOK.
There is a fair amount of cherry-picked information and timelines here, not always giving a fair shake to opposing arguments (and again, I say this as someone who sides with the argument in the book). It frequently neglects to view past decisions in the context of the time, and to acknowledge that the long-term health of the monetary system was not always the top priority or consideration with every decision the Fed or administrations have made, and I think sometimes unfairly treats some people - particularly some former Fed Chairs- by not considering the totality of circumstances at the time. At almost every given junction, there are more pressing concerns for the Fed or policy makers to address that outweigh the incrementally small damage that is done over time to the monetary system, and even though the long-term stability of the monetary system is of enormous concern and outweighs any of the individual crises at the time, it is understandable why policy makers opt to address the immediate issues despite adding another tiny slit to the death by a thousand cuts of the monetary system. This is particularly true with regards to the merits of fiat money, and the benefits of abandoning the gold standard. It is easy to look back and denigrate past policy makers knowing the state U.S. debt is in now, but a credit crisis would not have been utterly inevitable if countless congressional policy decisions had been more fiscally responsible over the last 50 years.
To be clear - this book is right on point, I just think it doesn't give fair consideration to some of the opposing arguments, and the culpability regarding 100 years of circumstances that landed us here.
My other contention is that a large swath of the book is a closeted Bitcoin promo. It would be a disservice to discuss these issues without devoting at least some conversation to crypto/Bitcoin, but the amount of time spent, and focused exclusively on Bitcoin, doesn't seem warranted given the ostensible title and presentation of the book. If the subtitle has been "What Happened to American and How Bitcoin Can Be A Safe Harbor To You", I wouldn't have this compliant. It just spent too much time on Bitcoin, and often felt more like a sales ad (despite ostensibly disclaiming that notion).
That all being said, if you're not already familiar with this topic, YOU SHOULD READ THIS BOOK.
July 8, 2025
Lawrence Lepard offers an important perspective on the history of money and interest rates, along with a detailed discussion on the critical significance of sound money. The exposition is presented in a form and style that makes it digestible for average readers without a background in finance.
Lepard discusses the shortcomings and risks associated with fiat currencies, which is an issue that is very important for everyone to understand.
Lepard spends some time focusing on gold as a reliable store of value. This analysis is on solid ground and is important for anyone interested in protecting their savings from the impacts of inflation.
Lepard places an undo emphasis on Bitcoin as a form of sound money. Although he addresses many of the primary challenges to this notion, his answers are unconvincing from my perspective. Bitcoin may, in fact, eventually evolve into a form of money, but at this point, it is strictly a speculative asset with no intrinsic value.
Lepard has developed his knowledge through decades of actual practical experience as a fund manager. So his perspectives are not simply academic theory.
Though Lepard ends up emphasizing Bitcoin as a form of sound money--a position that I strongly disagree with--his contributions to the discussion of the failings of fiat currencies and the critical importance of sound money are well developed and clearly communicated.
Lepard discusses the shortcomings and risks associated with fiat currencies, which is an issue that is very important for everyone to understand.
Lepard spends some time focusing on gold as a reliable store of value. This analysis is on solid ground and is important for anyone interested in protecting their savings from the impacts of inflation.
Lepard places an undo emphasis on Bitcoin as a form of sound money. Although he addresses many of the primary challenges to this notion, his answers are unconvincing from my perspective. Bitcoin may, in fact, eventually evolve into a form of money, but at this point, it is strictly a speculative asset with no intrinsic value.
Lepard has developed his knowledge through decades of actual practical experience as a fund manager. So his perspectives are not simply academic theory.
Though Lepard ends up emphasizing Bitcoin as a form of sound money--a position that I strongly disagree with--his contributions to the discussion of the failings of fiat currencies and the critical importance of sound money are well developed and clearly communicated.
June 24, 2025
Opens your eyes to the Fiat Money System
Very easy read of basic Fiat (Governement) issued currency and how U.S. dollar currency is created and distributed to the wealthiest Americans exposing how the Central Bank ( Federal Reserve) which is not a federal government agency that is controlled by the US banking Industry which are non-elected bankers that are setting economic policy not only in the US but in every country ( 170 countries) with a central bank issuing currency. We cannot trust these individuals which do not care about the average citizens savings or economic health. This is why a decentralized money that is liquid like Bitcoin is the best solution to the problem of inflation. Please read this book to start your journey of understanding money and currency which are not the same concepts.
Very easy read of basic Fiat (Governement) issued currency and how U.S. dollar currency is created and distributed to the wealthiest Americans exposing how the Central Bank ( Federal Reserve) which is not a federal government agency that is controlled by the US banking Industry which are non-elected bankers that are setting economic policy not only in the US but in every country ( 170 countries) with a central bank issuing currency. We cannot trust these individuals which do not care about the average citizens savings or economic health. This is why a decentralized money that is liquid like Bitcoin is the best solution to the problem of inflation. Please read this book to start your journey of understanding money and currency which are not the same concepts.
October 20, 2025
Overall, it is a good and easy-to-follow book. I agree with most of the points that Mr. Lepard raised in this book. Gold and bitcoin, in my opinion, will continue to have a place in investors' portfolios amidst record government spending and QE.
The one point that I don't quite agree is that a debt default would lead to political turmoil and depressions; however, a monetary reset (i.e., debt forgiveness) would restore balance and fairness. Why is this the case? Aren't debt default and debt forgiveness technically the same? If someone could help me understand this question, that would be much appreciated.
The one point that I don't quite agree is that a debt default would lead to political turmoil and depressions; however, a monetary reset (i.e., debt forgiveness) would restore balance and fairness. Why is this the case? Aren't debt default and debt forgiveness technically the same? If someone could help me understand this question, that would be much appreciated.
May 25, 2025
Well researched and pretty easy to read book. The author does a good job providing a history of how the U.S. Dollar has been basically devalued over the years, largely because of poor decisions by our elected officials and elitist financiers, especially the twelve unelected Federal Reserve governors. The author is a big advocate of Bitcoin and gold, the latter of which I might consider as a hedge against a future currency crisis, but not yet convinced Bitcoin is going to survive. Read the book and see what you think.
March 28, 2025
4.5, This book is broken into two parts, the problem and the solution. The first part gives historical context of money/economy going back a few hundred years and how we have arrived at where we are today. Where the debt crisis and inflation have become a large issue. The second part dives into sound money (Bitcoin and Gold) and why Lepard advocates for them. Was very easy to read. If you liked this book and have not read The Bitcoin Standard, you should do so.
May 7, 2025
Simplifies our present problem with money and debt and posits a positive path forward.
Our country is in a predicament with uncontrolled spending and a growing debt that cannot be repaid which puts our fiat currency in question. Me. Lepard explains the problem and how it was created and presents solutions on how you might prepare for future fiat failure. An interesting and informative read.
Our country is in a predicament with uncontrolled spending and a growing debt that cannot be repaid which puts our fiat currency in question. Me. Lepard explains the problem and how it was created and presents solutions on how you might prepare for future fiat failure. An interesting and informative read.
June 17, 2025
I was concerned this book would just be another telling of The Bitcoin Standard. After reading this I can assure you that Lawrence Lepard provides his own argument and facts. It also keeps getting more and more interesting the deeper into the book you get. Masterpiece and must read. He also further provides other book recommendations. Many of which I was already planning on reading and now definitely will.
October 2, 2025
Excellent book, highly relevant to this critical time/ juncture in US economy and markets. The books support for free markets, sound money (gold, Bitcoin) & concern for state of USD, interest rates, inflation, Fed Policy & US debt is highly factual. Recommend this book for all traders and investors endeavouring to understand current state of US markets, economy & debt and future potential outcomes of same. Also book presents convincing thesis for having Bitcoin as an asset in ones’s portfolio.
October 25, 2025
Should be must read for everyone. Clearly explains how our monetary system is built and controlled by the big financial institutes and governments. Dives deep in how it was historically implemented and what power the people in charge actually yield. If people would actually understand how our FIAT money system works, there would be an immediate revolution, with this system in place the ordinary citizen always looses. Read this book and financially educate yourself!
March 25, 2025
Easy informative read
A good historical account of our money supply and modern governmental interventions (and their consequences…) I would have liked to have seen more material on investing in bitcoin and strategies to capitalize on its adoption. Regardless, time was well spent parsing through this easy read.
A good historical account of our money supply and modern governmental interventions (and their consequences…) I would have liked to have seen more material on investing in bitcoin and strategies to capitalize on its adoption. Regardless, time was well spent parsing through this easy read.
March 31, 2025
Great read. I appreciated Larry’s honesty about his successes and failures as an investor. And in particular how he described his determination to work on the physical and spiritual aspects of his life. I have followed him for a few years now and he has helped guide me in my understanding for the necessity of sound money. Well done Larry.
July 5, 2025
Awesome Book!! Lepard does a great job explaining how our financial system is in disfunction. What I really liked is that he doesn't go back in time too far. Sure, knowing what happened over the course of history is important, but going back to more recent history that he lived through is way more impactful.
This book is going into the grad gift box with Atlas Shrugged and Bitcoin Standard.
This book is going into the grad gift box with Atlas Shrugged and Bitcoin Standard.
September 1, 2025
Great book overall for a primer of what’s wrong with the money today and the insidious nature of our financial institutions. Afterwards, I’d recommend “End the Fed”, “Why Nations Fail”, “The Price of Tomorrow”, and “The Bitcoin Standard” to help paint clearer pictures of what is covered in this book.
September 7, 2025
The Big Print is a clear, engaging dive into our current monetary crisis. It breaks down complex economic issues without jargon, making it accessible for all readers. Beyond diagnosing the problem, it offers practical, hopeful solutions for a stable future. A must-read for anyone curious about our economy—informative, straightforward, and surprisingly gripping!
November 30, 2025
Since COVID, including Trump and Biden, more money has been printed than the economy can absorb with normal inflation. It all went into assets, doubling home prices and causing stocks to moon. The fix is hard money, like Bitcoin, as the debt is now unsustainable and we can never pay it off without printing even more money.
May 18, 2025
Freedom
I read this book and slowly realized I have been feeding a Ponzi scheme - Fiat currency - my whole life. Now..? I've made it my goal to teach anyone that will listen, to "Get off zero."
My financial freedom is a choice.
I chose Bitcoin!!
I read this book and slowly realized I have been feeding a Ponzi scheme - Fiat currency - my whole life. Now..? I've made it my goal to teach anyone that will listen, to "Get off zero."
My financial freedom is a choice.
I chose Bitcoin!!
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