As the United States has transitioned from an agricultural to an industrial economy, from a rural to an urban population, literature has recorded the country’s experiences, helping to define the nation and its citizens. These stories, whether historical romances or postmodern novels, whether picture books for children or nonfiction memoirs by Wall Street traders, have the power to educate, alarm, and inspire at the same time that they entertain the reader. Financial narratives can explore the benefits and excesses of the economic system, but they can also inspire struggling entrepreneurs and educate curious teenagers. Ultimately, these literary works have the power to teach economic principles by presenting real-life situations.