Private Equity: A Memoir BY Carrie Sun

Named a most-anticipated book of 2024 by NPR.org, Oprah Daily, Town & Country, The Millions, and Financial Times, Private Equity by Carrie Sun offers a compelling memoir that delves into the high-stakes world of Wall Street and the quest for personal fulfillment amidst extreme wealth and cutthroat work culture. Sun, a daughter of Chinese immigrants, achieved remarkable success—graduating early from MIT and climbing the corporate ladder—all in pursuit of the American dream. At twenty-nine, facing dissatisfaction with her engagement and career path, she seizes a rare opportunity to work at a prestigious hedge fund.

As the sole assistant to the firm’s billionaire founder, Carrie is thrust into a world where her every move is scrutinized and her value is measured by her ability to manage the demands of a high-profile investor. Immersed in the luxury and power of this elite environment, she becomes entangled in a culture that prioritizes time and profit above all else. The initial thrill of success and opulence soon gives way to a stark realization: the relentless drive for achievement is consuming her identity and well-being.

Private Equity is not just a recounting of Carrie’s experiences but a profound critique of contemporary work culture, privilege, and the definition of success. Sun’s memoir questions the sacrifices made in the pursuit of career advancement and highlights the personal cost of chasing after power and wealth. Through her journey, Sun offers a sobering examination of what it means to truly live a fulfilling life, making Private Equity a thought-provoking read on the intersections of ambition, identity, and self-worth.