I’m a big believer in development – blame the property developers and their tame bankers and politicians for this recession if you want, but the fact is, if it wasn’t for them thinking big, we’d never have got out of the last one.”
-- Kennedy (chapter 1)

Importance: This quote clearly illustrates Kennedy’s world view before he begins work on the Spain case. He is a “big believer,” with all the faith implications of this phrase, in the economic and larger social system of his country. He thinks that hard work and aiming high are what lead to success, and that most people who end up in holes have dug themselves there. While the recession might have been a low point, it has yet to waver Kennedy’s faith or affect anyone he loves.

The houses were too much alike. Even on the ones where a triumphant red- and-blue sign yelled SOLD...
-- Kennedy (chapter 1)