Alice Schroeder

Alice Schroeder is an American financial expert and author best known for writing the authorized biography of Warren Buffett, "The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life" (2008). As Berkshire Hathaway's leading sell-side insurance analyst at Morgan Stanley, she developed a professional relationship with Buffett that led to her becoming his appointed biographer. Before her writing career, Schroeder established herself as a prominent figure in the insurance and financial sectors. She worked as a CPA at Ernst and Young and later served as a project manager for the US Financial Accounting Standards Board, where she oversaw significant changes in reinsurance accounting regulations. Schroeder continues to influence financial journalism through her work as a Bloomberg News columnist. Her expertise in the insurance industry is widely recognized, and she has served as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Prudential PLC. She holds both a BBA in finance and an MBA from the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin.

Readers praise Schroeder's thorough research and detailed insights in "The Snowball," noting her unique access to Warren Buffett and ability to present complex financial concepts clearly. Many reviews highlight the comprehensive nature of the biography, with readers appreciating the balance between Buffett's business dealings and personal life. Liked: - In-depth coverage of Buffett's investment philosophy - Clear explanation of financial concepts - Access to previously unknown personal details - Professional writing style Disliked: - Length (832 pages) feels excessive to some readers - Too much focus on personal life for readers seeking pure business insights - Some sections move slowly with excessive detail Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (47,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (1,800+ ratings) Notable reader comment: "Schroeder's attention to detail and factual accuracy makes this the definitive Buffett biography, though the pacing could be tighter" - Amazon reviewer While some readers found the book's length challenging, most agree the comprehensive coverage justifies the scope.

The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life (2008) A comprehensive biography of Warren Buffett based on extensive interviews and unprecedented access to the investor's personal archives and family members, covering his life from childhood through his rise to becoming one of the world's wealthiest individuals.

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