In "Boom," Michael Shnayerson invites readers into the pulsating heart of the modern art world, a realm where genius and ego clash against the backdrop of colossal financial stakes. This gripping narrative whisks us back to the pivotal moment in 1947, when a collection of disregarded Jackson Pollocks ignited the transformation of art dealing, propelling it into a realm of unrivaled wealth and influence. Through Shnayerson's expert lens, we journey from the gritty beginnings on 57th Street, through the artistic ferment of SoHo in the '60s, to the bustling galleries of Chelsea, chronicling the ascension of art dealers who would become the titans of the industry—figures like Larry Gagosian, David Zwirner, Arne Glimcher, and Iwan Wirth. With the narrative flair of a seasoned Vanity Fair reporter, Shnayerson unveils the rollercoaster of achievements and setbacks, the partnerships and rivalries, which defined the careers of the artists and dealers who shaped contemporary art. "Boom" is a riveting account of ambition and creativity, set against the inexorable pull of wealth and the machinations of the unregulated markets that drive the art world today. It's a story replete with backstabbing, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of success, providing a fascinating window into the lives of those who have built, sustained, and revolutionized the landscape of modern art.