Book Description
Who Says Elephants Can't Dance? sums up Lou Gerstner's historic business achievement, bringing IBM back from the brink of insolvency to lead the computer business once again.Offering a unique case study drawn from decades of experience at some of America's top companies -- McKinsey, American Express, RJR Nabisco -- Gerstner's insights into management and leadership are applicable to any business, at any level. Ranging from strategy to public relations, from finance to organization, Gerstner reveals the lessons of a lifetime running highly successful companies.
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"
Who Says Elephants Can't Dance? sums up Lou Gerstner's historic business achievement, bringing IBM back from the brink of insolvency to lead the computer business once again.Offering a unique case study drawn from decades of experience at some of America's top companies -- McKinsey, American Express, RJR Nabisco -- Gerstner's insights into management and leadership are applicable to any business, at any level. Ranging from strategy to public relations, from finance to organization, Gerstner reveals the lessons of a lifetime running highly successful companies. "
Customer Reviews:
Great leader.......2007-08-27
When I started the book, I have no idea about the history of IBM. I am not an IT person, so I have heard IBM but that is basically it.
I learned a lot from the book about IBM, what they did wrong and how he changed it.
But besides everything he revised the company culture and organizational structure. I think that is the hardest thing a CEO can achieve. His vision, his attention to details but still seeing the big picture amazed me. No wonder they picked him as the great saver of the IBM legend.
The book is long and sometimes repeats itself, without going into details.
The part I enjoyed the most was his e-mails. How encouraging was he after 9/11, he mentioned employee names and all the things they did both to help and also to get their business going. He sent e-mails to his 300.000 employees. His tone and the things he mentions, his clarity was amazing. He is an excellent leader. IBM is very lucky to have such a good CEO.
What Life at the Top is Really Like--As Told By a Superb Leader.......2007-08-16
Having spent twenty-three years in management before I became an entrepreneur, I recognize that moving from one side of the desk to the other side may be the longest journey a professional person ever makes. When we shift into a leadership spot, not only do we find that our prior perceptions might have been totally inaccurate, we have to address personal and professional challenges we would have never imagined.
I applaud this book as one man's record of what life at the top is really like. He won me over immediately when he decided to wear a blue shirt because everyone else was wearing white. Thoreau would have applauded his individualism.
With my current profession dedicated to improving individual and corporate communication, I agree with Gerstner's assertion that "No institutional transformation takes place, I believe, without a multi-year commitment by the CEO to put himself or herself constantly in front of employees and speak in plain, simple, compelling language that drives conviction and action throughout the organization."
Another striking bit of Gerstner wisdom: "Success in a company comes foremost from success with the customer, nothing else."
He's right on target again when he observes that "lack of focus is the most common cause of corporate mediocrity."
Yet Gerstner goes beyond mere platitudes: "Execution--getting the task done, making it happen--is the most unappreciated skill of an effective business leader."
Possibly two of Gerstner's words capsule his approach to awakening IBM to its possibilities: "constructive impatience."
In my judgment, Louis Gerstner should rank alongside Jack Welch as a take-no-prisoners leader. Read this book, and you will agree that he was the right man at the right time for IBM.The Complete Communicator: Change Your Communication-change Your Life!
Where Were the Details?.......2007-06-06
Throughout this book Gerstner discusses the changes IBM made and how he helped turned the company around. I have no doubt that he was a large part of the dynamic shift at IBM to again make it the successful, global company that it is today, but I felt that I went through the book without completely understanding what those changes were. There was a lot of discussion of how IBM was operated and managed when Gerstner took control of the company in 1993 as it was falling apart before the public's eyes, and there was a lot of explanation of how IBM was successful and reborn when he stepped down from the CEO position in 2002. But there was little substance in between. I am not sure if that is because the day-to-day steps taken throughout the mid and late 1990s are too mundane for the average business reader, of if the details were just left out. Gerstner does share some insight into leadership skills and his management style, but IBM as is left in the shadows. All in all, this is not a bad book, but be aware that the reader is left wondering exactly how IBM regained its dominant position in the marketplace.
A leader thru change.......2007-05-17
Mr. Gerstner provides his story of when he took over the reigns at IBM and brought the company back on its feet. This is a strict business book with internal memos and charts at the end so it can lend itself to being a bit boring in some parts. However, when the authir describes how he was able to navicate thru the huge complexity of all the different divisions, then this book becomes a valuable reference for any business leader who needs to go thru the same process.
smooth transaction, exact product, nice&easy supplier.......2007-05-14
exact product at an affordable price w a smooth transaction
Amazon.com
What do you do if you're running the worst airline in the country,one that customers hate and that's been through Chapter 11 twice in the last 10 years? If you're lucky, you'll call Gordon Bethune. Before Bethune arrived, Continental had been ravaged by the likes of Frank Lorenzo and airline deregulation--it was considered the laughingstock of the airline industry in the United States. Under Bethune's leadership, Continental turned itself around to become one of the most respected and reliable airlines in the industry. From Worst to First describes how Bethune, with a lot of luck and the right combination of people, was able to transform Continental from an also-ran into an award-winning company. --Harry C. Edwards
Book Description
The numerous anecdotes alone are worth the price of the book . . . most readers will find themselves asking why everyone doesn't run a business as preached by the chief executive of Continental Airlines.-The Washington Post Book World
. . . in an age where managing seems increasingly complicated, some of Bethune's prescriptions are refreshingly straightforward.-Business Week
From Worst to First outlines Gordon Bethune's triumphs . . . about the turnaround he's led at Continental, a perennial basket case that's become an industry darling.-The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
From Worst to First is [Gordon Bethune's] story of Continental Airlines' turnaround under his command . . . The blueprint has worked . . . Fortune magazine named Continental the company that has 'raised its overall marks more than any other in the 1990s.'-The Seattle Post-Intelligencer
All of Gordon Bethune's proceeds from this book will be donated to the We Care Trust, a nonprofit organization that assists Continental Airlines' employees and their families in times of need.
Customer Reviews:
Top Notch.......2007-05-19
I had the pleasure of doing media relations for Continental in the early 2000s, including the years after 9/11. The Gordon Bethune in the book is the Gordon Bethune you meet in person: incredibly smart, driven, concerned about the people whose paychecks he signed, and satisfied with nothing less than the best. Great read. (I sound like a PR guy... But I mean it sincerely...)
Remarkable Turnaround.......2007-01-22
This is an enlightening book on how CEO Gordon Bethune, together with his team, engineered a remarkable turnaround of Continental Airlines in the mid-1990s and then steered Continental to be a very successful airline. With literary assistance from journalist Scott Huler, Continental Airlines Bethune describes how he transformed the near-bankrupt airline into one of the best companies in the industry. He outlined his four-part "Go Forward" plan for turning Continental airlines around, and offers critical advice to all business professionals. He uses numerous examples, as well as stories and anecdotes; to make his simple, yet profound points.T he challenges faced by Continental Airlines in 1994 are somewhat similar to those faced by many airlines worldwide in the past six years or so, when the industry was going through a rough patch. Many of these airlines need visionary and decisive leadership of Bethune's mould to turn the familiar red ink at the bottom line to black.
The book is well written in an easy to follow and understand manner which enables it to benefit anyone in any industry to gain insights into how to turnaround a loss making business with dysfunctional structures and demotivated people. I learnt a lot from the various examples provided which helped me to get his message across. I also enjoyed the various humorous stories which illustrates how badly Continental used to be mismanaged and how the situation was straightened out.
Although there was a fair amount of repetition which may annoy some people, I had no problem with it as it helped to reinforce the author's message. This book is absolutely invaluable for any manager or leader in any organization undergoing a turnaround process, regardless of size.
light on the details but interesting.......2006-12-18
Continental airlines was a major disaster in 1994. Gordon Bethune did a major turnaround of that company and unfortunately he does not tell us how he did it with the exception of cutting costs. He was so busy talking about how wonderful he was that he forgot to tell us how to turn the company around and not just the end results. It is still an interesting book for those who are interested in the airline industry but don't expect to get much out of it if you are looking for the story of continentals turnaround.
Great read for business people.......2005-12-16
I have been a loyal frequent flyer at Continental since the late 90's, and I have no idea the airlines was that terrible at the early 90's. As a frequent flyer, I admire Continental's plane is always cleaner than other airlines, and the flight attendant attitude is always friendly than others. After reading the book, I understand the reasons.
If you work at a company need to be turned around, this book is almost a top read. For management, there are some good ideas worth considering from reading this book.
This book can be condensed to 2/3. The last one third of the book is somewhat repeating what has been said at the beginning. Otherwise I will give it a 5 stars rating.
Great book, Even for Non-Aviation hobbiest~.......2005-12-12
This is a great book on how Continental emerged from bankruptcy twice. Bethunes punes run throughout the book which make for easy and enjoyable reading. Even for a college student such as myself.
Book Description
The most trusted names in workouts and turnarounds share their valuable strategies Compiling insights and methods from industry experts, this authoritative and practical guide cuts through the maze of corporate restructuring jargon to give corporate leaders and professionals the proven techniques and clear advice needed to understand today's corporate turnarounds and workouts. Workouts & Turnarounds II: Global Restructuring Strategies for the Next Century gives detailed coverage of the key issues involved in this process-from both the creditor and company positions. You'll learn how to identify a troubled company and determine the chances of turnaround, and what management should focus on before it's too late. One of the leading authorities in financial and operational restructuring services, Dominic DiNapoli has assembled experts from around the country who have provided their insights and years of experience in the various topics covered in this book. From business regeneration tactics, to managing corporate communications, to the roles of lawyers and lender services, you'll find a wealth of information in this comprehensive reference. In addition, this guide contains case studies of turnarounds in progress, illustrating many of the techniques and strategies currently available. Whether you are a CEO, an attorney, or a lender restructuring or investing in distressed companies, Workouts & Turnarounds II: Global Restructuring Strategies for the Next Century gives you the crucial information you need to make the right decisions today.
Customer Reviews:
Not to the point.......2002-08-23
This book will explain how the rules were created and turned to what they are today. Who cares how they came to be, the only important thing is what you can and cannot do under the circumstances. It will explain what to consider, in general terms, when valuing distressed companies. But what discount rate should you use? How would you value different assets? It doesn't explain. There are no numbers in this book. It's not practical. It's like buying a cooking book and when you want to know how to make a cake the book reads: "use eggs, milk, flower and mix". Ok, thanks.
What to Do...What Not to Do.......2000-05-09
Every executive should make active use of a basic reference library of about 12-15 business books; Workouts & Turnarounds II should be one them. Edited by Dominic DiNapoli, it consists of 21 different chapters, written (or co-authored) by experts on various subjects. These chapter titles suggest some of the issues which are addressed:
* Trouble-Spotting: Assessing the Likelihood of a Turnaround
* Looming Financial or Business Failure: Fix or File -- A Legal Perspective
* Preparing for Bankruptcy: Building the War Chest
* The Lawyer's Role in Representing the Distressed Company
* The Accountant's Role in the Workout Environment
* Dealing with Employee Issues in a Bankruptcy Situation
* Mergers and Acquisition Strategies for the Distressed Company
At one time or another, all organizations experience serious problems. Many of them eventually recover. The wealth of information and advice provided in this single volume explains HOW. Other organizations, unable to solve their problems, are either liquidated or acquired. This book explains WHY. I know of no other single volume which offers more and better information about workouts and turnarounds, corporate restructuring, and bankruptcy proceedings. This book can be of substantial value to those involved with a distressed organization. It was written primarily for them. However, I think this book can also be of substantial value to those whose organization is (at the moment) thriving and who are determined to sustain that success. Knowing what NOT to do is often as important as knowing what to do.
Book Description
As a manager who wants to attain, maintain, or reclaim a competitive position in the hotly contested and ever-changing marketplace, your goal is clear. Terrified of being the "hunted" -- in peril of being destroyed or devoured by your competitors you want to know how to once again become a "hunter." But the myriad improvement strategies that sound great in theory don't always work in practice, and they don't take into account the realities of your workplace.
Through an unusual and provocative blend of fact and fiction, Jim Swartz puts you inside the transformation process itself - inside the heads of those who, finding themselves among the hunted, realize they must change the fundamental way they do business. He makes it clear why reorganization, decentralization, de-layering, continuous improvement, benchmarking, and participative management are helpful tools but fall short of tackling the real enemy.
In this engaging business novel, you'll travel with Marcus, the "Master Guardian" who has been helping businesses in trouble for 1400 years, as he trains two guardian recruits: Lou, a tough steel company manager long on experience with the old ways, and Laura, a Harvard MBA with a global view and no industrial experience. Come along as they visit great business hunters past and present and become aware of the fatal corporate mindsets, mental models, and measures that doom many companies to a life of retreat and restructuring. By visiting turnaround companies, you'll learn new business process models that dramatically reduced costs, improved performance and product quality, and made these companies the fastest responding suppliers in the world.
Customer Reviews:
An education in basic business and breakthrough solutions.......2004-12-02
Read this on the recommendation of an exceptional Materials Manager. While the format does take a little longer to get to the heart of non-linear solutions, the author provides a sense of what really separates good business practices from poor business practices, exceptional people from average people and the hunters from the hunted. The history that is included puts into perspective not just what you do to improve the business, but how to go about it (or how others have gone about it). Another important piece of information for the reader is that, what have been historic breakthroughs were arrived at through a combination of progressive thinking, and trial and error. It's not because a brilliant light just appeared. Highly recommend this book.
Read this on a recommendation..........2002-05-21
Sound ideas if you don't mind plowing through all of the stuff and fluff. The author spent way too much time trying to make his points compelling by the use of awkward and fanciful historical connections. Oh, and the liberal use of Capitalization To Play An Idea Up As A Fundamental Law Of The Universe gets annoying pretty quick.
I recommend reading "Lean Thinking" instead. You'll get all of the same important concepts without the need for literary corn-husking.
Not just a one-off throw-away.......2001-10-23
Way too much meat for one reading. The idea of the non-linear solution merits right up there as one of the fundamentals of modern world-class manufacturing. The non-linear solution is, among other things, the idea that you can't keep trying to improve a bad system. Fundamental, dramatic change is often necessary to keep from becoming one of the hunted. Do you see your company in any of these stories? Often hunters become hunted and don't know it until it is too late. One of the very best works available today. Read it and study it. The fantasy story that ties the book together is original and well done. As much a page turner as anything by Tom Clancy.
Do you like to hunt, or be hunted?.......2000-09-25
This book is just amazing, since it explains how American companies thought of themselves to be the best of the best, and saw no competition on the asian companies. Later on, in the late seventies and early eighties, american companies began a desperate rush to improve. It is written in a way that may remind you of Ellie GOldratt's "The goal". This book tells you what to do, but not how to, which I found to be one of it's biggest assets, because there is no better way to learn something, than doing it by yourself. It is a must to read by anyone who is on the upper levels of managemnet in a company, it will help you develop a new vision of what is the purpose of having a mangement on an agressive company.
Book Description
Features the latest theories on change management and real-world stories of successful turnaround efforts.
Customer Reviews:
Could be better.......2007-01-11
Rather disappointing with what I considered largely facile commentary ~ yes entertaining but not illuminating
Obviously, much easier said than done...........2005-10-26
This is one in a series of several dozen volumes which comprise the "Harvard Business Review Paperback Series." Each offers direct, convenient, and inexpensive access to the best thinking on the given subject in articles originally published by the Harvard Business School Review. I strongly recommend all of the volumes in the series. The individual titles are listed at this Web site: www.hbsp.harvard.edu. The authors of various articles are among the world's most highly regarding experts on the given subject. Each volume has been carefully edited. Supplementary commentaries are also provided in most of the volumes, as is an "About the Contributors" section which usually includes suggestions of other sources which some readers may wish to explore. In this volume, the reader is provided with eight articles. Here are brief excerpts from the executive summaries with precede three of them:
Cracking the Code of Change (Michael Beer and Nitin Nohria): "In this article, [the authors] describe two archetypes -- or theories of corporate transformation that may help executives crack the code of change. Theory E is change based on economic value: shareholder value is the only legitimate measure of success, and change often involves heavy use of economic incentives, layoffs, downsizing, and restructuring. Theory O is change based on organizational capability: the goal is to build and strengthen corporate value." (May-June 2000)
Turning Goals into Results (Jim Collins): "In this article, [Collins] introduces the catalytic mechanism, a simple yet powerful managerial tool that helps translate lofty aspirations into concrete reality. Catalytic mechanisms are the crucial link between objectives and performance; they are a galvanizing, nonbureaucratic means to turn one into another...[They share] five characteristics. First, they produce desired results in unpredictable ways. Second, they distribute power for the benefit of the overall system, often to the discomfort of those who traditionally hold power. Third, catalytic mechanisms have teeth. Fourth, they eject `viruses' -- those people who don't share the company's core values. Finally, they produce an ongoing effect." (July-August 1999)
Changing the Way We Change (Richard Pascale, Mark Millemann, and Linda Gioja): "The authors identify three interventions that will restore companies to vital agility ands then keep them in good health: incorporating employees fully into the principal business challenges facing the company; leading the organization in a different way in order to sharpen and maintain incorporation and constructive stress; and instilling mental disciplines that will make people behave differently and then help them sustain their new behavior." (November-December 1997)
Hopefully these brief excerpts encourage those with whom I now share them to obtain a copy of this volume and then read each of the eight articles. Those who share my passion for athletic competition will be especially interested in Bill Parcells' article, The Tough Work of Turning Around a Team. His efforts to do so here in Dallas continue.
Harvard Business Review on turnarounds........2005-08-05
Many airlines worldwide are ailing. Many large airlines have been liquidated or are facing serious viability challenges. I work for an airline association which, among other things, seeks to find solutions to turnaround the fortunes of the legacy airlines. After searching for a book to guide me in this regard, I came across Harvard Business Review on Turnarounds.
The book proved to be useful as it is a collection of articles highlighting how others have effectively managed change and turned around failing organisations. From the compelling stories about successful turnarounds, one can also distil some ideas and principles that can be used to effect successful turnarounds. This book would be a useful reading for those people in businesses that require to be re-energising or revitalising to stay competitive and be customer focused.
Book Description
Leadership is never more crucial than when corporate survival is at stake. But the days of the tough guys are over. The leaders who are driving today’s sustainable turnarounds understand that the answers to a distressed company’s problems lie almost always within the firm itself – usually at middle manager level and below. The secret is cooperation. Drawing on interviews with top company doctors and advisers, as well as on the authors’ own experience, Leading Corporate Turnarounds explores seven key leadership and management skills required for successful turnaround, and shows why quickly gaining the buy-in and trust of all stakeholders is the key to ultimate success.
- Written by the founding directors of the Society of Turnaround Professionals (STP), with a proposed Foreword by the Society’s Patron Sir John Harvey-Jones
- Considers the different drivers of turnaround, the alternatives to it, and the restructuring processes required to move beyond crisis stabilization to sustainable change
- Features international case studies from leading companies including BT, Virgin Express, Arthur Andersen, Parmalat, GE, Lee Cooper, New Look and IBM
Download Description
Leadership is never more crucial than when corporate survival is at stake. But the days of the tough guys are over. The leaders who are driving todays sustainable turnarounds understand that the answers to a distressed company's problems lie almost always within the firm itself ,usually at middle manager level and below. The secret is cooperation. Drawing on interviews with top company doctors and advisers, as well as on the authors own experience, Leading Corporate Turnarounds explores seven key leadership and management skills required for successful turnaround, and shows why quickly gaining the buy-in and trust of all stakeholders is the key to ultimate success. Written by the founding directors of the Society of Turnaround Professionals (STP), with a proposed Foreword by the Society's Patron Sir John Harvey-Jones Considers the different drivers of turnaround, the alternatives to it, and the restructuring processes required to move beyond crisis stabilization to sustainable change Features international case studies from leading companies including BT, Virgin Express, Arthur Andersen, Parmalat, GE, Lee Cooper, New Look and IBM
Customer Reviews:
Turnaround tips for companies in crisis.......2007-04-12
Managing a successful turnaround is tough, and it requires tough actions by "company doctors" who gallop in to rescue companies from the brink of financial death. Although most management projects require subtlety and tact, turnarounds need quick, blunt actions, such as firing top managers or selling unprofitable divisions. Stuart Slatter, David Lovett and Laura Barlow present a blueprint for people engaged in turnarounds. Using interviews with 80 turnaround specialists in the United Kingdom, the authors make their point - often more than once. The most interesting and useful parts of this volume are the short, boxed case studies in each chapter. We recommend this informative book on a little-known business topic to creditors, attorneys, accountants, venture capitalists and curious managers, as well as to specialized consultants who may become involved in turnarounds.
Book Description
The ultimate guide on crisis management of corporations that are foundering or failing.
Customer Reviews:
this is my bible.......2006-09-17
Despite having other books, I find that I refer to this book all whenever I need to refresh my memory about something. Very logically structured and with sufficient detail for you to get on with the job.
Great for all managers, not just turnarounds.......2001-11-13
This book contains sound advice for all managers, not just managers of distressed businesses. Knowing and understanding the danger signs of distress can help a manager stay out of trouble. Although this book was written over 20 years ago, the material is totally relevant today, especially in light of the recent IPO meltdown. It would be great reading for a CEO who must now live entirely within his own means.
Right on Target.......2001-04-09
I just reordered two more copies of Corporate Turnaround by Donald Bibeault.
I am an investment banker who, on occasion, has a client that gets into financial trouble. I find the book very helpful in both organizing a turnaround plan for the client as well as in coaching the client in taking corrective action.
When I first read Dr. Bibeault's book, I immediately recognized that this author knew exactly what happens to a troubled company and has mastered the tools of recovery from practical experience and not from some academic research. Bibeault's turnaround steps are simple and realistic and therefore can be applied in a variety of circumstances.
Each time that I encounter a turnaround situation, I offer my client a copy of Corporate Turnaround with relevant passages highlighted. As a first step, I always turn to Chapter 19 - "The Emergency Stage", and put emphasis on the section that covers Cash Flow Analysis and Control. Building a chart similar to the one showing a cash flow plan is an especially useful way to get started in the right direction.
I am delighted to see that this book is back in print because it's the best in its field. And in my case, its teachings have helped to save a number of companies from almost certain bankruptcy.
Jim Herrmann
Definitely a primer for turnarounds.......2000-04-24
For those who need an introduction to corporate turnarounds, look here! Tells you what they are about, and what are the keys to a good turnaround. However for those looking to turn around a failing company, you would still best be served looking for a professional consultant granted every case is unique.
Average customer rating:
- Double romance
- This One is to Savor
- Love at Second Sight
- Kinda Bummed
- Why do I read Karin Kallmaker?
|
Just Like That
Karin Kallmaker
Manufacturer: Bella Books
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Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 1594930252 |
Book Description
Syrah Ardani tried independence - but the call of the Napa Valley hills and rolling vineyards of her family's winery have brought her home again. She is content with her ordered world until she learns that her father's feckless management has put Ardani Vineyards into receivership.
Corporate turnaround specialist Toni Blanchard's arrival is preceded by tales of her slash-and-burn techniques. Determined to meet this soulless corporate raider head on, Syrah proudly prepares to do battle for her home and family business.
Toni has reason to retreat from a high-pressure Manhattan lifestyle, not the least of which is a bitter break up. She's been told that Syrah Ardani is attractive and single, but Toni never mixes business and pleasure.
Toni's father wants her to save his old friend from bankruptcy. The court has appointed her to safeguard the creditors. The creditors clamor for a quick sale and payment. The beautiful—and hostile—Syrah wants Toni off her land and out of her life.
Their clashes smolder with distrust and resentment, but also threaten to light a completely different kind of fire. Most dangerous of all is the one thing Toni can't control—the way her heart reacts when Syrah looks at her… just like that.
Customer Reviews:
Double romance.......2006-07-28
Ohhhh...Kallmaker does it again. A 5 star awesome novel.
In this novel, we find Syrah (named after the wine) trying to assist her father from losing their vineyard and business. Since his business' credit has been maxed, the creditors are sending in someone to assist her father in making good solid judgements with his business.
Syrah doesn't want the axe man to come, but he cometh in the form of Toni Blanchard. Toni's beautiful, competent, smart and also happens to be the daughter of Syrah's father's college roommate.
As Syrah and Toni do battle over business and bookkeeping, Syrah's friend Jane (tough butchie looking for love in all the wrong places) also gets hooked by the love bug.
Pick it up and you won't be able to put it down.
This One is to Savor.......2006-07-06
This the 17th outing for Kallmaker, and she brings us something new. This is the story of Syrah, born with grapes in her DNA. And Toni, a businesswoman who works for stockholders and courts and essentially tells companies how to restructure their businesses and then walks away. When Toni is asked to look at Syrah's family vineyard, she discovers that while she likes Syrah's father, he is a poor businessman. What will Toni find when she goes through the books?
Kallmaker slowly builds the attraction between Syrah and Toni as she explains the business of winemaking to the reader. Each character is well-written as are the minor characters - Jane, Syrah's best friend; Missy, Toni's best friend; Mira, Toni's ex and the woman you love to hate; and Caroline, the avaricious sister of Missy.
This is a traditional lesbian romance, and is to today's romances as cozies are to mysteries. It is well worth the read if for no other reason than the reader will learn something about making wine while enjoying a romance.
Love at Second Sight.......2006-01-02
A thoughtful friend gave me this latest Karin Kallmaker novel for Christmas - signed no less! - and it was a true delight to read. Pride & Prejudice is one of those books I know I *ought* to have read, but I haven't. Since it's apparently the birthplace of the romance novel - and the blueprint from which Just Like That was developed - I think I have to read it.
There were plenty of twists and turns in the story. I knew all along that somehow Toni would save the day, but exactly how was a surprise. I knew that Toni would declare herself in love with Syrah but sat there with my mouth hanging open when Syrah threw every word back in Toni's face. Syrah and Toni struggle to understand each other, and both of them are more than willing to let their pride and their misconceptions flourish.
Meanwhile, Jane and Missy, in beautiful contrast, take one look and fall madly in love. Everything goes easily - well, until well-meaning friends get in the way. At one point Syrah says that looking at their happiness felt like it was breaking her heart, since her own eluded her.
The prose of this tale is easy and rich. Others have of course compared it to wine, which is natural, so I won't. Even though it's the perfect comparison. The story comes to the reader without a lot of effort, but thoughtful consideration of the intricacies of the emotions involved, as well as the structured metaphors of nature, only deepened the pleasure for me.
I think my favorite scene was when Toni accidentally catches Syrah and Jane skinnydipping - the layers to all of that exchange are wonderful with Syrah angry for the dust settling on the grapes from Toni's thoughtless driving and Toni hardly listening as she contemplates Syrah's half-covered bum. And the visual of the Sophia-Lorenesque Syrah in nothing but a wet T-shirt...pure eye candy. Be still my libido!
I can't wait for Karin's next book - every single one is a different iteration of the lesbian romance novel, each a gem in its own right, often for different reasons. It wasn't that long ago I thought romance novels had nothing to offer a sophisticated reader. I was wrong. I admit it. This is pure romance and I think I'll read Pride & Prejudice very soon.
Kinda Bummed.......2006-01-01
I went into this book knowing how it was going to end because as with all of her books you know going into it how it is going to end (a perk indeed when it comes to me and "trashy lesbian romance novels"). The premise was amazingly good...it caught and kept my attention. I just found that with this particular book it lagged a bit more than in books past. I understand that suspending disbelief is one of the HUGE attractions of a great romance book...(believe me...I get and appreciate that..just ask my girlfriend or my bookcase stuffed with books) I just after getting to the declaration of love found myself rolling my eyes a bit and wondering...how is this at ALL possible when you have less time together than it could even take someone to fall into complete lust?? The girls in the movie "Better than Chocolate" spent more time together before their declaration (ok..perhaps its a close tie)
This book does have some great moments like the entire party scene and the stargazing scene and I by no means wish to stray people away from this book completely. Karin is a great writer and in the romance department I can't write a novel even a quarter as great. I would just say that she has a great collection of books, and if you are looking for a big bang introduction this is not the one I would wade into first.
Why do I read Karin Kallmaker?.......2005-12-17
Friends ask why I prefer her work over most of the other lesbian fiction writers out there, and by the time I'm done explaining they're not listening any more. I read a variety of writers, too, and there are many good ones out there, to be sure. But Kallmaker is easily my favorite, and here in Just Like That is the perfect example of why.
When Syrah and Toni leave dinner together, after what neither of them will admit is a date, we know they are probably headed for a sexual encounter. Many writers can competently get the two women into bed, the sex will happen and on goes the story. Kallmaker, however, layers the scene between Syrah and Toni with other elements an attentive reader can appreciate, elements that deepen the conflict and shed light on the nature of the two women and what they would bring to the eventual relationship we hope they will forge.
To open the possibility of privacy, on the drive home, Syrah suggests taking the back roads. On the surface, that's a simple writer's choice to deepen the intimacy. But the back roads lead through the vineyards of Syrah's family, the land that she labors in and loves. To enter, Syrah herself gets out and opens the gate. Metaphorically, she actively invites Toni into her private world, one full of green and life and perhaps even magic starlight that a jaded New Yorker can feel.
While the subtlety of the place might escape Toni, the pull of sensual nature - and Syrah's marked sensuality when in her fields - is powerful. It's the always-in-control Toni who is overwhelmed and Syrah who gives, eagerly and naturally, the pleasure. She's in her element and has let Toni in - for the moment.
When Toni tries to return the pleasure, however, Syrah is spooked. Could it be because Toni is offering only her body and not her inner self? Could it be that Syrah senses that there is no place - yet - that touches Toni's soul the way the vineyards touch Syrah's? These questions and insecurities are embedded into the sexual exchange, not tacked on after - that's the magic Kallmaker creates. Toni, so rich and eligible, abruptly finds herself the one who is bankrupt in the things that Syrah values.
Many readers will fly through this scene because it's hot - they are after all doing it on the hood of a car under a starlit sky. Kallmaker knows how to turn up the steam in a love scene but she never stops there.
Certainly, the deeper levels in the scene are not essential to understanding the plot or being wholly satisfied by the ending, but for the people who ask me why Karin Kallmaker is my favorite - and in my opinion one of the best lesbian fiction writers out there - that's why.
Her work is as deep or as simple as the reader wants to make it. I read her for depth and have never been disappointed at the skillful and insightful way she writes about women, lesbians and the nature of trust and love.
Book Description
"If you're the CEO of a struggling business, let's hope we never meet. I'm Gary Sutton, a turnaround guy. When I arrive you leave. Results usually get better and fast."-from the Introduction to The Six-Month Fix
Lessons on how to save a sick company from a top turnaround CEO
One of the business world's most sought-after "trauma specialists," Gary Sutton has salvaged nearly a dozen failing businesses, including everything from printing, garbage hauling, and burglar alarm companies to aerospace, satellite communications, and software firms. In The Six-Month Fix, Sutton takes readers behind the PR curtain to give them an intimate look at the situations he faced coming into several sick companies and how he fixed what ailed them. Writing in his trademark frank, funny, no-holds-barred style, he shares his war stories and the lessons he learned about what it takes to save a faltering business. Not for the faint of heart, The Six-Month Fix offers honest, straight-from-the-hip advice for managers in training for the business fight of their lives.
Gary Sutton (La Jolla, CA) sits on several private boards, is a Director of WebSense (WSBN-Nasdaq), and is the author of several books.
Customer Reviews:
A book that shares life experience.......2007-07-13
The kind of book that shares life experience. I also work with turnarounds and it is interesting to find similar experiences occuring in different business environments. I am giving 4 stars, and not 5 stars, because I missed objective analysis methods. Anyone that want to work in a company turnaround should read this book.
A very good checklist for the restructuring professional.......2007-01-10
I am an insolvency practitioner and found the book easy to read and very instructive. It has been very useful to me as a "how to" handbook for addressing informal restructuring assignments.
Common Sense in Print.......2006-07-11
Most of the ideas in this book seem like common sense once you read them. The catch is that most people don't think this way until they read it. I found the book an enjoyable read and gave some clear step by step ways to improve a business that's in trouble. I would recommend it to any and all even those of us who are "Recovering MBA's" can be reminded of a thing or two.
Fascinating and Distinctive.......2006-01-15
This is a fascinating book and a distinctive one. To begin with, the author does not claim to have a magic formula for success and instead focuses on the many conceptually simple but difficult tasks required to make a success of a failing business. Some of the suggested strategies make me uncomfortable because of the implications for employees, but never do the strategies seem mean-spirited -- they just seem necessary.
The book was given to me as a gift, and after I started reading it, I couldn't stop. It ended up reading it in less than a full weekend, but parts of it have always stuck with me. I can't summarize it any better than the front flap: "Direct, funny, and brutally honest".
Lousiest book on turnarounds.......2005-01-17
Ive read a lot of business books but this one ranks at the bottom. It wasnt written: it was most probably taped during the authors spare time i.e. commuting in traffic, traveling etc. The book has advice like "attack drugs and alcohol at work...".
Some chapters, like the last, ramble on with no real objective. Ive never returned a book to Amazon but there always a first
Book Description
The definitive guide to successful corporate transformation
?The framework Bob Miles illustrates in his new book has been the key tool Symantec has used to start the shift from being a technology-driven to a customer-driven company. Business leaders facing a variety of corporate transformation challenges will benefit from this important executive briefing.? -- Gordon E. Eubanks, Jr., chief executive officer, Symantec Corporation
The distillation of a stellar twenty-year career, Leading Corporate Transformation is consultant Robert Miles's reply to executives who want to be able to rise to the most pervasive challenge facing them today: how to achieve fundamental transformation without exposing the organization to unacceptable risk. Here, in the form of an executive briefing, are the expert guidance and tools you need to meet a variety of corporate transformation challenges, whether you are trying to reposition a successful company, revitalize a failing one, merge different businesses and cultures, or manage a leadership succession process. These insights are relevant not only for senior executives, but also for managers at all levels of an organization undergoing fundamental transformation. If you are a leader who must effect organizational change, you will want to keep this book close at hand.
Customer Reviews:
"The Corporate Transformation Framework.".......2000-05-18
"Corporate transformation challenges come in many forms and confront executive leaders with an array of vexing questions: How can I help my company, which is at the top of its competitive game, sidestep complacency and energize people to redirect their efforts and reposition their organization? How can I lead my company, which has lost its way and greatly depleted its resources, to revitalize itself for competitive excellence? How can our recently merged companies or functions overcome business and cultural differences? Or, more simply, now that I am in a position to do so, how can I effectively take charge of my organization and help people develop a new agenda to lead us through the next phase of its development? These questions, and more, have found successful resolution through the framework for leading corporate transformation described in this book (R. H. Miles)."
In this context, in the first part of this book, Robert H. Miles offers a framework for leading corporate transformation. This framework, as stated by Miles, identifies the major/required tasks that a leader-indeed, that leaders at all leves in the organization-must perform to achieve successful transformation without exposing the corporation to unacceptable risk :
I. Generate Energy for Transformation
* Confront reality
* Create and reallocate resources
* Raise the bar
* Model desired behaviors
II. Develop a Vision and Business Success Model
* Develop a strategic vision
* Model business success
* Analyze the total system: current vs. vision states
* Identify the gaps
* Focus on a few transformation initiatives
III. Align the Organization
* Restructure
* Implement infrastructure
* Reshape the culture
* Build core competencies
IV. Create a Transformation Process Architecture
* Educate and involve
* Create coordination and feedback mechanisms
* Communicate progress
* Fill transformation skill gaps
According to R. H. Miles these elements of the framework provide not only a platform for launching a corporate transformation, but also for managing transitions from one phase of transformation to the next en route to the vision state.
I highly recommend.
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Books Index
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