Big Julie of Vegas

This is an interesting look at gambling, human frailties, and Las Vegas circa mid-1970's. Jeweler "Big Julie" Weintraub (1919-1997) developed one of the first big-time gambling junkets. Readers learn both about him, and how his New York-to-Las Vegas junkets operated. The book is primarily one of anecdotes, presenting boht humor and human psychology in its tales about high rollers, gambling addicts, hustlers, showgirls, hookers, casino employees, etc. For many business executives this was recreational stress relief, done in high style. But the occasional big winner was (and still is) in the minority, and some went down the tubes at blackjack or craps long before their return flight - a few before they even checked into their rooms. Sadly, a small number returned home so deeply in debt that they lost their businesses, homes, even their families. The odds have always favored the house, and those that keep playing are up against it. Still, compulsion (or addiction) keeps some playing long after they should leave the table. Las Vegas has changed quite a bit since the 1970's, yet the book's lessons on addiction and human failings remain ever relevant. Readers should enjoy the easy-reading style of author Ed Linn (1922-2000), who also penned popular books on sports figures like Leo Durocher, Bill Veeck, etc.