History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Has history been tampered with?.......2007-10-23

Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RAZQNMXM4M9CL Has history been tampered with? Yes, it has! Did events and eras such as the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the Roman Empire , the Dark Ages, and the Renaissance, actually occur within a very different chronology from what we've been told? Yes, they certainly did!

The history of humankind is both drastically shorter and dramatically different than generally presumed.

Why is it so? On one hand, it was usual custom to justify the claims to title and land by age and ancestry, and on the other the court historians knew only too well how to please their masters. The so called universal classic world history is a pack of intricate lies for all events prior to the 16th century. World history as we learn it today was entirely fabricated in the 16th-18th centuries. It's likely that nobody told you before, but

there is not a single piece of firm written evidence or artefact that is reliably and independently dated prior to the 11th century.

Naturally, after what you've learned in school and university, you will not easily believe that the classical history of ancient Rome, Greece, Asia, Egypt, China, Japan, India, etc., is manifestly false.

You will point accusing finger to the pyramids in Egypt, to the Coliseum in Rome and Great Wall of China etc., and claim, aren't they really ancient, thousands of years ancient? Well, there is no valid scientific proof that they are older than 1000 years!

The oldest original written document that can be reliably dated belongs to the 11th century!

New research asserts that Homo sapiens invented writing (including hieroglyphics) only 1000 years ago. Once invented, writing skills were immediately and irreversibly put to the use of ruling powers and science.

The consensual chronology we live with was essentially crafted in the 16th century by the Jesuits.

The world history was compiled from contradictory mix of innumerable copies of ancient Latin and Greek manuscripts and other irrefutable proofs delivered by late mediaeval astronomers that were cemented by the authority of writings of the Church Fathers.

Early in life, we learn about ancient history. Children love the magical lessons of history - they are like fairy tales. Teachers recite breathtaking stories; very soon We learn by heart the names and deeds of brave warriors, wise philosophers, fabulous pharaohs, cunning high priests and greedy scribes.

We learn of gigantic pyramids and sinister castles, kings and queens, dukes and barons, powerful heroes and beautiful ladies, emaciated saints and low-life traitors.

Ancient history is based documents, manuscripts, printed books, paintings, monuments and artefacts - called primary sources.

The problem is that neither these ancient documents, nor events described therein can be irrefutably dated, moreover they contradict each other for the most part.

When a school textbook tells us that Genghis Khan in year X or Alexander in year Y, have each conquered half of the world, it means only that it is so said in some of the written sources.

There are no answers to simple questions:

When were these primary sources written?

Where and by whom were these sources found?

It is wrongly presumed that ancient and medieval chronicles, written by Genghis Khan's or Alexander the Great contemporaries and eyewitnesses, are readily available. Actually, only sources written hundreds or even thousands of years after the events are there, compiled mostly in the 16th 18th centuries, or even later.

As a rule, these sources suffered considerable multiple manipulations, falsifications and distortions by editing. At the same time,

innumerable originals of ancient documents under various pretexts were destroyed in Europe under various pretexts.

The names of persons and geographical sites often changed meaning and location during the course of the centuries.

Geographical locations became clearly defined on maps only with the advent of printing.

This made possible the circulation of identical copies of the same map for purposes of the military, navigation, education and governance tasks.

Historians from Oxford say: "hey, everybody knows that Julius Caesar lived in the first century B.C.

`Julius Caesar' statement is only a point of view as

there is simply no irrefutable documentary proof that Julius Caesar or any other great name of antiquity ever existed.

Better than that - extremely rare sources that can be reliably dated back to the 10th-14th centuries A D, do not show the polished picture of classical history.

They show a picture both contradictory and confusing.

All methods of dating of ancient sources and artefacts are erroneous:

Radio-carbon C14 method produces dating with exactitude of plus minus 1500 years, therefore it is too crude for dating of events in historical timeframe!

The Almagest tractate, which lies as corner stone contemporary chronology, compiled in the 2nd century A D by Ptolemy, the founding father of astronomy, contains astronomical data of 9th to 16th century!

The Bronze Age,that has supposedly began 5000 years ago. Bronze is made of 90% copper and 10% tin, but the technology for tin extraction dates back to 14th century A D!.

All eclipses contained in manuscripts, like Thucydides one, relating 'ancient' events have exclusively medieval dating. All horoscopes cut in stone or painted in Egyptian temples, like Dendera have exclusively early medieval dating solutions.

Not quite what you have learned in school? Open your eyes, and, you will find sufficient proof to reach step by step the inevitable conclusion that the classical chronology is false and therefore, that the history of ancient and medieval world universally accepted today, is also false. Have a fresh outlook on everything said or printed about "ancient" and "enigmatic" Roman, Greek and Egyptian, medieval as well as all other "lost and found" civilizations.

Antiquity and Dark Ages are phantoms invented in the 16th 18th and polished in 19th 20thcenturies. Human civilization is in fact barely 1000 years old!

This book will change your perception of History forever!
What if Ancient Rome, Greece and Egypt were invented during Renaissance?
What if The Old Testament was a rendition of events of the Middle Ages?
What if Jesus Christ was born in 1053 and crucified in 1086 AD?
Sounds Unbelievable?
Not after you've read "History: Fiction or Science?" by Anatoly Fomenko, the genius mathematician.
Armed with astronomy and computers Anatoly Fomenko turns History into a rocket science.

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

My Personal Best : Life Lessons from an All-American Journey

Average customer rating:

Secrets of Life
Wooden's Personal Best
revealing, pleasant read
Good for coaches
Short, but Very Good

My Personal Best : Life Lessons from an All-American Journey
John Wooden , and Steve Jamison
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

General | Basketball | Sports | Subjects | Books

General | Sports | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0071437924

Book Description

NATIONAL BESTSELLER

For John Wooden's millions of fans--a heartfelt and revealing self-portrait about the people and events that shaped his life

Sports Illustrated declared: "There has never been a finer coach in American sports than John Wooden. Nor a finer man." ESPN selected him as the "Greatest Coach of the 20 ^th Century." From his birth on an Indiana tenant farm, to All-American honors at Purdue, to his historic record-setting UCLA dynasty, John Wooden is a towering figure in 20 ^th-century sports, and his experience and wisdom an American treasure. In My Personal Best, Coach Wooden tells how he did it and the lessons he learned on his remarkable journey.

Pairing never-before-seen photos from Coach Wooden's private collection with his personal stories and affirmations, this book encompasses the dramatic arc of Wooden's larger-than-life achievements and experiences. As he did in his perpetual bestseller Wooden, Coach offers a wealth of biographical details, personal reflections, and a lifetime of lessons. His millions of fans will cherish this definitive pictorial history of a living sports legend.

"John Wooden is a living legend because he practiced what he preached--the code of ethics which created America's strength."
--Phil Jackson, head coach, Los Angeles Lakers

"Most of what I know, what's made me a smart man, has come from John Wooden."
--Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer

"A man of John Wooden's accomplishments and integrity would stand out in any era, but now, almost three decades after he coached his last game, he is in some ways an even more striking figure."
--Bob Costas

Customer Reviews:

Secrets of Life.......2007-06-09

John Wooden has figured out some of the secrets of life. And he passes them on directly, in a way that can be transformational for a reader.

John Wooden is a hero of mine. His own heroes include Abraham Lincoln and Mother Theresa. Like them, he is a treasure for all of us because his life and lessons demonstrate what it means to live to "our personal best" in a way that is simple, profound and so clear.

This book should be required reading in "Human Being 101".

Wooden's Personal Best.......2007-03-22

We grow up hearing about the importance of developing " good character", not always knowing what it is, or just how to obtain it. All of Wooden's books give his personal guidelines for developing character and living a decent life, whether we are athletes, musicians, teachers, or anything else.
Wooden's teachings have stood the test of time. His life and those he has influenced are proof of that.
I use his wisdom for myself, and I pass it on to all my students. They all know who John Wooden is. His life blesses us all.

revealing, pleasant read.......2007-01-05

John Wooden is one of my heroes. When I was growing up, his teams were dominant, but more importantly, they made the game beautiful to watch. After he retired at the peak of his game, he quietly stepped off the stage. With the rush of books on leadership in the 1990's through the present, it was inevitable, and overdue, that folks take time to examine Coach Wooden's approach to leadership. This has led to a cottage industry in Wooden books.

This book is short, personal and focuses on life lessons learned from the narrative of Coach's life. It doesn't attempt to be weighty, just a good read, that imparts wisdom without hitting you over the head with it. It touches on each chapter of Coach Wooden's life, and particularly shows the infuence of his father, his high school and college coaches and his growth thru experience

This is a fun, easy read that leaves the reader wiser. Highly recommend

Good for coaches.......2007-01-04

This is a great book to help any coach of any sport get a good feel for the right way to coach young players. Teach them good life lessons and skills. It gives an insight into a great coach and even greater man.

Short, but Very Good.......2006-05-10

I loved the book, but I would have liked for it to be longer. It is a very quick read but is full of wisdom from one of the best coaches of all time.

Average customer rating:

Positive Books Crowd Out Negative Books
A Fabulous Character Ed Program!
A Teacher's Point of View
Tried and True Journey to Success
Wonderful, Inspirational Book that Every Child Should Have

Inch and Miles: The Journey to Success
John R. Wooden
Manufacturer: Perfection Learning
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0756914108

Book Description

Inch and Miles have one last assignment before summer vacation begins. Their wise teacher, Mr. Wooden, has asked them the meaning of success. Using a magic silver whistle, Inch and Miles set out on a journey to discover the blocks of the Pyramid of Success and learn how to try 100 percent to be their personal best.

Customer Reviews:

Positive Books Crowd Out Negative Books.......2006-08-26

At first I thought this book was too much for children to absorb. But after seeing the kids' reaction to it and the content of other books the children could be reading, I realized the title of this review.

A Fabulous Character Ed Program!.......2006-03-27

Inch and Miles are now the central characters in our schoolwide character ed program! This beautiful book with powerful lessons from Coach Wooden has been the perfect addition to our program, and it is not the same old charater ed stuff you see everywhere! Each classroom in our school has a copy of the book, and we focus on one or two traits of the Pyramid each month. Students are selected as Students of the Month based on the trait for that month. Every student in the school keeps an on-going journal of writing related to each trait, and students perform special skits, songs, poems, etc related to the traits in the book at our weekly assemblies. Whether you use it individually or schoolwide, this book is a must have for teachers and parents!

A Teacher's Point of View.......2005-10-02

I used this book to begin the school year. I had my students listen to the story to guess each part of the pyramid of success. After the story we built our own pyramid on a bulitan board and discussed all of the elements needed to be successfull. Now I refer to the bulitan board to remind the children of what they are to be doing. This has been a great tool to teach character to my students while keeping control of my class. Inch and Miles are my new class mascots!

Tried and True Journey to Success.......2005-05-07

As a Principal of an elementary school I gave this book to each of my teachers this Fall and we read the book together round-robin style. What an experience! Their enthusiasm has carried through the whole school as our students have all had discussions of the various blocks, the value of hard work and being a person of integrity whatever your path. We so appreciate that Coach Wooden put his successful system into a kid-friendly venue to reach even our kindergarteners. A must-have book for adults as well as children to assist in returning to the basic roots of a successful society. Yes, enthusiasm is important, but staying the course, inch by inch, with confidence and poise, hard work and determination will ensure great accomplishments. So, "hootie-toot-toot" to a rival Bruin we will always be indebted to! Fight on!

Wonderful, Inspirational Book that Every Child Should Have.......2005-04-14

What a wonderful book! The illustrations are colorful and filled with interesting characters. Each block in the "pyramid of success" describes a value in an animated and fun format. A great inspirational book that teaches everyone to to be their best! A terrifically well written that should be shared with everyone you love.

I bought a batch of "Inch and Miles" and gave the book away as presents to my family and friends. "Inch and Miles" is our favorite book in our home library. We recommend this book to parents, educators, and coaches.

Millionaire Women Next Door: The Many Journeys of Successful American Businesswomen

Average customer rating:

Role-Models for Would-Be Millionaires
Not Quite Stanley's Best, But Well Worth A Read, Nonetheless
Very Interesting Book
If you've got the Money, Honey---I got the Time.
Statistics for women

Millionaire Women Next Door: The Many Journeys of Successful American Businesswomen
Thomas J. Stanley
Manufacturer: Andrews McMeel Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Motivation & Self-Improvement | Business Life | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Women & Business | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0740745328
Release Date: 2004-05-24

Book Description

Eight years ago, Dr. Thomas J. Stanley swept aside the mythical magic curtain of wealth to reveal The Millionaire Next Door. America found out just who and how common the truly wealthy were in this country¿and we learned the characteristics and habits that made them so. Now the author of the follow-up The Millionaire Mind focuses on one of the least understood but increasingly rich demographics: Millionaire Women Next Door.¿Why write another book that profiles millionaires?¿ Stanley asks. ¿The vast majority of the millionaire respondents (92 percent) in The Millionaire Next Door were men. . . . I felt that it was indeed time for successful businesswomen of the self-made variety to be heard.¿ And heard they are in this book that is destined to become every bit as informative, quoted, and inspirational as the author¿s earlier works. Readers everywhere will be fascinated by Stanley¿s thoroughly researched findings and conclusions. More than a simple extension of his studies of male millionaires, Millionaire Women Next Door presents groundbreaking concepts involving the nature, lifestyle, and business choices of successful American women that reach far beyond the scope of the author¿s previous studies. The book examines the choice of businesses elected by self-employed women, ranking over 150 categories in terms of their profitability and probability of success. It also describes the women¿s background, highlighting the fact that most millionaire women were raised in nurturing family environments that were literally training grounds for success, instilling the values that make this group one of the most generous in American society as demonstrated by its level of giving to charities, family, and friends. While many characteristics such as frugality and simplicity of lifestyle are similar to those of their male counterparts, Stanley demonstrates that most millionaire women work harder and do better¿at school, in business, and in investment practices. Millionaire Women is sure to be one of the most read, reviewed, and discussed books to come out this year. Make your own wise investment for a wealth of solid sales.

Customer Reviews:

Role-Models for Would-Be Millionaires.......2007-08-09

Question: What's the one thing a woman can do for herself if she wants to be a successful businesswoman or a millionaiare?
Answer: Find a role-model, and emulate the things she does.

Thanks to Thomas Stanley, women don't have to network to find the mentor they need. They'll be able to find her right in the pages of this book.
With abundant statistics and case profiles, Stanley presents us with successful women from varied backgrounds, and shows us exactly how they did it.

The book is rich with details, and focuses on the "5-W's" (of good journalism):

WHO these women are.
WHAT they do and how they decided to do it.
WHEN they made the decisions that propelled them to success.
WHERE they live and work, and come from.
WHY they are so successful.

Recommended reference to keep in your "how to succeed" library.

Not Quite Stanley's Best, But Well Worth A Read, Nonetheless.......2007-05-20

I just finished reading this book after picking it up at a bookstore about five days ago. I read from it every chance I got, and though on the one hand, I have to agree with those readers who pointed out that the book was tough going at times, on the other hand, I also have to agree with other readers who had very good things to say about the book, as the favorable reviews are well deserved. First I will cite the bad about the book, and then I will cite the good.

First the bad. The book appears to rely heavily upon convenience sampling and voluntary response. The author seems to have shared mostly only those stories sent to him, or more plainly, that just fell into his lap. Second, like his two other millionaire books, the author uses the book as a platform to share with us the things he values, and appears only to look for that information or evidence which supports his values, never once addressing information that contradicts his position. Third, in keeping with the standard paradigm of women = victim and male = (opportunistic) victimizer, (which always plays well to the target demographic of the book), the author's attempt to make out this group of women as selfless, do-gooding heroines was a bit overdone. The millionaire women are seen as generous and charitable as a group, and the millionaire men are portrayed as heartless misers who penny-pinch at every turn. I felt especially incensed when Stanley went out of his way to make excuses for some millionaire womens' poor choices in mates- the so-called 'Marginal Bobs' (the book titled, Smart Women, Stupid Choices, comes readily to mind for some peculiar reason). By association, if some of the men made poor choices in terms of mates, would they too be given sympathy and generous excuses, or are we to believe that they deserve what they get?

And now the good. Aside from the obvious attempts to play to the book's target audience (middle class, educated wage-earning women) and attempts bordering on the egregious to trumpet the merits of personal financial planners of various stripes, the book did have quite a few good points about it. We learn that if we divide the millionaire women into two groups, those that give the most to charitable causes tend to have lower annual earned incomes and higher net worth. These women tend to give just for the joy of giving, and seek to make the world they live in a better place. Many people took issue with the inclusion of a chapter about a dyslexic man who did good; however, I think the point of the chapter was to show that even those with identifiable disabilities can become millionaires, be they male or female, so long as they play to their strengths, live below their means, save and invest, avoid a lifestyle centered around consumption, and most of all, have a source of thoughtful, intelligent mentoring available to them. Readers that read the book carefully will glean some powerful information from this book, such as the following: 1) you can not change the past, but you have considerable control over your future, 2) those who are professional, service-oriented and customer-focused will always beat the competition, 3) it pays to play to your native strengths, 4) great investors are not born, they are made through trial and error, so go ahead and make a few mistakes, and 5) most important, limit borrowing only to those things that generate a realizable (net) income- a lesson all of those would-be real estate moguls and Robert Kiyosaki mimics would do very, very well to keep in mind.

In passing, I did not think that it was appropriate for Stanley to profile two college professors in his chapter on wealthy educators, simply because in order to become a college professor, one has to spend, at last count, a minimum of at least seven years beyond the Bachelor's degree to receive a doctorate. These days, most places won't allow you to teach on the faculty without a PhD, and more than a few people on faculties do not get tenure. In my mind, it would have been better for him to profile a wealthy elementary or high school teacher, as this is a goal that is more attainable for most readers. Still, I got a good kick out of his story of the matronly professor who touched the lives of so many deserving students.

In sum, I found the book to be a very worthwhile read. Though many would dismiss the book's more important contents as common sense, it is hard to believe that many people still don't get it. Readers should keep in mind that it all comes down to the choices we make, and take special care not to equate one's net worth with one's self worth, a trap too many Stanley devotees tend to fall into. I still contend that ongoing investments in one's health and continuing education will lead to satisfying increases in one's wealth.

Very Interesting Book.......2006-12-31

When I read The Millionaire Next Door, I was intrigued. However, I was left yearning for similar information regarding women. Well, I found it in this book. It was very interesting to read statistical information about successful women.

If you've got the Money, Honey---I got the Time........2006-11-12

Or, "How I learned to LOVE pinching pennies & clipping coupons!"

Now there's a title to stir the very hottest of boiler-fires in this coldest of Bounders, oh yes: "Millionaire Women Next Door"! Yummy! The title conjures up visions of 90-something tottering dowagers, having crumb-cake brought to them on silver platters by decrepit butlers, toddling about the mahogany-panelled passages of O Altitudo, shepherded by manservants and maids from Library to Sunroom to Palatial Dining Hall to the Rolls-Royce (gassed-up & ready to rumble by the handy valet) for the Sunday drive in the country.

Think of it: a ninety-something bat with the ferocious desire to rut like a crazed Gambian Howler Monkey, a creature with a very weak ticker, a short life-span, millions of dividend-paying bluechips and tax-free muni bonds piled up in her hoard, and me---first in line in her will!

Or even a chummier prospect: the Millionaire Woman Next Door who primped, nipped, tucked, & aerobicycled her way to bodily perfection, all of 35, hooked up with some venerable drooling Texas Oil Tycoon-Geezer, waited for him to drop, and now is positively rolling in the Shekkels and ready to party!

Alas, those fragrant, lustrous visions are for another writer and another book: this is a Thomas Stanley tome, Stanley being the scholarly fellow who pulled back the frayed shower-curtain on America's eremite wealthy only to reveal that mysterious class wasn't comprised of Robber Barons pulling their 500-foot nuclear powered megayachts into Mediterranean Ports, oh nosirree: they were plain folk, Good Reader, just like you and me!

Only they saved, live frugal lives, clipped coupons, ate catfood from a tin, scrounged, skimped, pinched the pennies until the Little Coppery Abrahams screamed in pain, maybe even splurged every 3 months on a 1-course meal at Mickey D's for the entire clan!

And, of course, according to Stanley and his prodigious stack of statistical data that suggest---no, confirm---that the meet may not inherit the Earth, no sirree, but the skinflints sure as Hell will---they'll die loaded.

I'm not going to parse or quibble with Stanley's research: coming myself from degenerate, somewhat deranged Southern stock, I've seen, firsthand, accounts of miserliness, weal, and grasping avarice that would chill the blood.

I have an Aunt who would hook up with her (loaded) buddy, and the two biddies would have Thanksgiving Dinner at the local homeless shelter. Hey, it was a cheap meal, no doubt.

But is that any way to live? Is it worth it to you, to spend your fleeting hours scrimping and scrounging, fretting over every penny, so you can die loaded? And so, once you give up this mortal coil and your wizened soul speeds Valhalla-ward, your spoiled, nasty little nephew, the only creature left alive mentioned in your will, inherits all your booty, and proceeds to blow the entire stack on a civilian super-submarine---I mean, what's the point?

I was hoping with "Millionaire Women" Stanley would let his hair down, get all "Shaft" with us, maybe talk a little bit about Divorce, the single greatest gender-to-gender (ie, poor hapless dudes to merciless chicks) wealth transfer ever invented in the history of the world. The Big D, an easy con to pull off, and pulled off every day: Woman sinks her claws & pinions, parasite-like, into a Hapless Man, catapults out a few nasty brats so he's bound to her for Eternity, then Lawyers up and pirates his loot. Works like a charm.

But no such luck: we're spoiled even that much of a Dickensian romp.

So if you insist on looking here, know this: Stanley's 'blockbuster' first book, "The Millionaire Next Door", was all about America's truly wealthy: Stingy Dudes.

To cut to the chase, "Millionaire Women" is the same disc, spinning backwards, without even a few Satanic Verses---to wit: Stingy Chicks.

Unless you're looking for a real blue-light special, avoid.

JSG

Statistics for women.......2006-07-31

I thought this book was a great read, based on the power of the statistics alone. Lots of great information about profitable women- owned businesses, as well as hearing the stories from the women who made it themselves.

Journey to the Impossible: Designing an Extraordinary Life

Average customer rating:

Required reading for everyone
This book will get you moving!
Something for EVERYbody!

Journey to the Impossible: Designing an Extraordinary Life
Scott Jeffrey
Manufacturer: Creative Crayon Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Motivational | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Personal Transformation | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Success | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0971481504

Product Description

Journey to the Impossible: Designing an Extraordinary Life, a Benjamin Franklin Award finalist, will take you wherever you want to go-over, under, around, and through any obstacles, challenges, and barriers to reach a life of indescribable fulfillment.

* Learn how to achieve impossible results in every area of your life.
* Unlock five magic words to transform your life.
* Discover how to master your health with six pure energy principles.
* Unravel the ultimate secret behind innovation.
* Master the power of Playful Defiance.

Short, simple chapters make it easy to absorb the information at your convenience.

Customer Reviews:

Required reading for everyone.......2003-02-11

I review many, many books each year and each year I find two or three that are so powerful that I find myself taking notes. "Journey to the Impossible" is one of these books. Read it, reread it, highlight it, take notes, do whatever you need to do to keep this information at hand while you use it to transform your life.

A lot of things are impossible only because we perceive them to be impossible. And yet others who don't see them that way achieve those same goals. Scott Jeffrey takes us on a wonderful journey to achieving the impossible every day. With short, easy to read chapters the book lends itself to reading a chapter whenever you get a few minutes. This is easily one of the most practical life-changing books that I have ever read. Bravo, Scott Jeffrey, I could not recommend the book more highly.

This book will get you moving!.......2002-03-27

Got dreams you haven't begun to put wings on? Got goals you have not yet achieved? Got plans for the future? Well, Scott Jeffrey's book has been a genuine inspiration to me, and I believe it will help you too. He gives you short, easy tips to implement, fun ways to motivate yourself, and a whole toolbox of ideas that will help you put wings on those dreams and reach those goals.
I have 4-5 favorite chapters that offered advice that has become part of my daily life, and even if those chapters are not your own favorites, I know every reader will find something that will speak to him or her personally. This is easily the best motivational book I've read in several years.

Something for EVERYbody!.......2002-03-20

The title got me excited -- and the rest of the book changed me. 'Journey to the Impossible' is full of useful, easy and practical ways to change your life and create something extraordinary.

The chapters are broken into bite-sized pieces, some only 2-3 pages long. This technique allowed me to easily take Scott's recommendations and apply them - instantly. I didn't need to learn a philosophy to begin practicing what Scott preaches, as I was able to digest every chapter quickly and see the effects of the excercise, thought process, etc. right away. This is a powerful difference between 'Journey' and many other books on the market right now. With the busy lives we lead, we need something that we can take in and integrate quickly and effectively. Scott Jeffrey's 'Journey' accomplishes this admirably.

Read and recommend this book to all you care about. This book brings home a strong message for those who want to lead the best life they possibly can...it is amazing how the power of a few words can change so much.

Book Description

Beloved friend,

When this little book was first published many years ago, it became a beacon of light for many people who found themselves time and time again in one valley or another. Valleys are nothing new for any of us. Some of you may be in a valley right now, or, since you never know what's around the corner, you may be on the brink of tottering into yet another valley. Or maybe you've just survived a valley that you swear you'll never revisit -- but guess what? That's precisely the valley you'll probably see again. And again.

Being in a valley can be a lonely and bewildering experience. This book was written to help you feel less lonely by reminding you that you really aren't ever alone since God is always by your side, but more important, you are always by your own side. No matter how dire the situation may seem, no matter how dark and bleak the valley may be, you have all you need within you to survive the valley -- any valley. Even though you may not know how you got into the valley in the first place, you do know, deep inside yourself, how to get through and out and free. You just need a little faith in yourself and a little guidance to find that faith within yourself.

When you are at your wit's end, take this little book and let it guide you toward the ever-present but often elusive light at the end of the tunnel. Faith in the Valley is designed to help you find the light when you need it most -- when you're in that damn tunnel. When you're most confused and in the dark and clueless as to how you got there (again!) and when you're trying to figure out not just how to get out, but stay out. For good.

Faith in the Valley has helped so many through so much that we felt it only fitting to issue this lovely gift edition to acknowledge the special place it holds in many hearts. Please share it with a friend who has served as your beacon in the past, or offer it to yourself as a reminder of the strength and wisdom you possess and can offer to others.

Iyanla

Download Description

Beloved friend, When this little book was first published many years ago, it became a beacon of light for many people who found themselves time and time again in one valley or another. Valleys are nothing new for any of us. Some of you may be in a valley right now, or, since you never know what's around the corner, you may be on the brink of tottering into yet another valley. Or maybe you've just survived a valley that you swear you'll never revisit -- but guess what? That's precisely the valley you'll probably see again. And again. Being in a valley can be a lonely and bewildering experience. This book was written to help you feel less lonely by reminding you that you really aren't ever alone since God is always by your side, but more important, you are always by your own side. No matter how dire the situation may seem, no matter how dark and bleak the valley may be, you have all you need within you to survive the valley -- any valley. Even though you may not know how you got into the valley in the first place, you do know, deep inside yourself, how to get through and out and free. You just need a little faith in yourself and a little guidance to find that faith within yourself. When you are at your wit's end, take this little book and let it guide you toward the ever-present but often elusive light at the end of the tunnel. Faith in the Valley is designed to help you find the light when you need it most -- when you're in that damn tunnel. When you're most confused and in the dark and clueless as to how you got there (again!) and when you're trying to figure out not just how to get out, but stay out. For good. Faith in the Valley has helped so many through so much that we felt it only fitting to issue this lovely gift edition to acknowledge the special place it holds in many hearts.

Customer Reviews:

helps you get through what you're going through.......2007-06-08

this book has been so helpful at valuable to me so many tough times like i'm going through now. the messages are short but powerful. this book will certainly help you restore your peace. like another poster said mine is getting worn out.

GET THIS and GIVE THIS to your favorite women:).......2004-07-06

This is my FAVORITE book by Iyanla Vanzant because of: It's size(small enough for your tiny purse), its lack of preach-i-ness and how the index is organized by subject. I feel its a synopsis of all the subjects covered in her other books. I also feel the book is applicable to women of ALL cultures. You can use it as a daily guide or you can use the index to find a subject for which you could use guidance.

A great book for daily reflection.......2002-10-22

I can not express how insightful and helpful this book is! It really makes you look deep into the reason(s) why you thought you needed a book of affirmations in the first place. This book is perfect for those "why me" and "I really can't take any more" moments when you feel like life, and everything in it, needs to give you a break. If you're a woman experiencing a lot of change in your life and it seems like you just can't handle another crisis (or is it a crisis afterall?), this is the book for you. I carry it in my purse!

Touches a Point.......2002-07-30

Each time my spirt is down, or I'm going through a situation, I turn to this book. I hold the book in my right hand by its spine, fan the pages with my left hand to stop at randum. The passages I've read, I have felt its deep spirtual feeling and I understand its meaning. Then I reflect on my situation and the passage fits. It helps me to understanding whats going on. It uplifts my spirit to deal with my situation. It give me insight to view my problem from a different angle. It also assures me that what I am currently going through will end. I will get through it. In my view, its a powerfull book. I have read several other books by Iyanla, even watched her talk show (sorry that went off the air), but like the bible, I keep Faith In The Valley near by.

Inspirational.......2001-01-16

Faith In The valley by Iyanla Vanzant is truly a book to help us on our journey toward peace. Ms. Vanzant imparts words of wisdom and encouragement. She is reminding us of some of the day to day things we take for granted. We sometimes forget to be thankful for what we have; good health, a job and a place to live. You will not regret reading this book. As Ms. vanzant writes, "What a blessing! I am so thankful" that I read this book. Go get yourself a copy of "Faith in The valley".

The Journey from Success to Significance (Maxwell, John C.)

Average customer rating:

Humility
Good Gift Book

The Journey from Success to Significance (Maxwell, John C.)
John C. Maxwell
Manufacturer: Thomas Nelson
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Success | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 140410111X

Book Description

Best-selling author and nationally renowned motivational speaker John Maxwell looks beyond a worldly view of what matters to find a deeper call and a greater purpose in life. Stripping away the myths of success touted by our culture, he boldly and confidently asserts that true significance is only found by living in relationship with God and by using one's energy and influence to pass along God's love to others. Written in Maxwell's straightforward style punctuated with engaging stories and anecdotes, The Journey from Success to Significance is right on target for men's groups and business people as well as graduates.

Customer Reviews:

Humility .......2007-03-16

What a wonderful book. I've read through it at least a dozen times. Give this to everyone in your success lines (down lines). Each of us strives to leave this world better than we got it.
When you have reached financial success you realize that there is so much more out there that can be accomplished for others. Take this book and savor it. Read a page a night to your spouse, your child, your pet. I am a huge John Maxwell fan anyway, but wow, this is over the top. I will be eternally grateful for this reminder of how to serve others.

Good Gift Book.......2006-05-02

An interesting little book that will help you learn to focus on others. Like The Choice is Yours, this book is full of quotes and tidbits to help your life have more meaning and purpose. If you read it you will be challenged, and if you're willing to work you will experience growth in character and attitudes.

The Success Journey: The Process of Living Your Dreams

Average customer rating:

Follow the Roadmap and you are bound to succeed
John finishes his book with a ? "What did you like best?"
Flesh on the Bones
Best book I ever read
Great For any Age

The Success Journey: The Process of Living Your Dreams
John C. Maxwell
Manufacturer: Thomas Nelson
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Success | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0785274294

Book Description

Defining success is a difficult task. Most people equate it with wealth, power, and happiness. However, true success is not a thing you acquire or achieve. Rather, it is a journey you take your whole life long.

In a refreshingly straightforward style, John Maxwell shares unique insights into what it means to be successful. And he reveals a definition that puts genuine success within your reach yet motivates you to keep striving for your dreams.

I want to help you discover your personal road map for success, teach you what it means to be on the success journey, answer many of your questions, and equip you with what you'll need to change yourself and keep growing. - John C. Maxwell

Customer Reviews:

Follow the Roadmap and you are bound to succeed.......2005-08-08

The Roadmap to Success is by far the best motivational book I have ever read. It was the first book that I have read by Maxwell, and since then I have read four others. He teaches us a new way to think about success. Clearly stated success is: knowing your purpose, growing to reach your potential, and sowing seeds to help others. It is amazing how much better you perform and how much more you enjoy life when you view success through this framework. If you have been successful so far in your life, this book will help reinforce any doubts you have about your choices and reaffirm the actions you have taken. If you are committed to growth and development then this book is a great start to helping you put aside your fears to get the most out of your life. If you are closed minded, resistant to change and generally a pessimistic person this book is not for you. While those people that continue to make excuses for their failures or the way their life turned out will never succeed, those who have the right mindset and follow Maxwell's advise will surely go far in life and reap the beiefits and joys of success.

John finishes his book with a ? "What did you like best?" .......2005-05-06

The following is what I liked best:

The section on Goals
They MUST be activities that are: written, personal, specific, achievable, measurable, and time sensitive.

The Quotes:
"You can not make any progress when you are facing the wrong way." & the another one by Charles 'Tremendous' Jones who said "The only difference between the person you are today and who you will be in 5 years come from the books you read and the people you associate with."

The Benchmarking idea:
To attain success you should ONLY pick 3 to 5 areas to work on & grow in at one time.

The section on Choices:
In order to make progress it will involve 3 choices: to gain something, to lose something, or to trade something
and when you choose: pick the former rather than latter:
Achievement over affirmation
Excellence over acceptability
Personal growth over pleasure
Future potential over personal gain
Narrow focus over scattered interests
Significance over security

And finally the Laws on Developing others:
Take someone with you: "There is no success without a successor"

Rating: Strong Buy

Flesh on the Bones.......2004-06-27

I am definitely a John Maxwell fan. This man is truly gifted and knows how to communicate so all can understand and benefit.This book was great but even better if read as a sequel. Don't get me wrong this is a stand alone book by itself but I am glad that I first read The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership. The 21 Laws is much more dry and technical while this book is personal in its application. You will better understand the process by first knowing the driving principles.There are several excellent lists that are explained in detail but my favorite is entitled, "How to Take Others for a (Life Changing) Ride. #2 states to , "Limit Who You Take Along". This one explanation alone is worth the book. It should prevent burn out and minimize disappointments.Page 177 has a chart on communication styles and the results. He applies this not only to the business world but to the family unit as well.I particulary like the chapter, What Should I Pack in My Suitcase. This will help me redeem my "downtime" as I travel. This guy is a genius.

Best book I ever read.......2003-12-26

We all know this: the choice of our "favorite" book is a difficult one. Perhaps the "most influencial" one is easier, at least in my case it proved to be so. This book has shaped my way of thinking like no one, perhaps just "The power of positive thinking in business" by Scott Ventrella came close to it, but one step below.
As an IT consultant I use to read mostly technical books, which of course become outdated pretty soon and their value diminishes with time without discussion. The value that "Your road map to success" provides is enormous because has not timeframe, I can't see it outdated anytime and provides guidance which can be life-long followed and reintepreted.
I am finding myself to recommend this book to just aybody I care for. Chances are you'll do the same after you read it.
Absolutely recommended.

Great For any Age.......2003-09-11

I did this book for my college age sunday school and it was great. Very practical information and i loved the quotes. It was written in an easy to read format and easy to do lessons on. I know a lot of what he says is common sense knowledge but sometimes we forget how important stuff like attitude is. He reminds us with example and practical principals. Maxwell is great i did his leadership series at work and he really has a great insight into success.

Changing How the World Does Business: Fedex's Incredible Journey to Success - The Inside Story

Average customer rating:

Jerry R.
A fascinating story.
FedEx story delivers
Better than expected.
Soul of a New Business

Changing How the World Does Business: Fedex's Incredible Journey to Success - The Inside Story
Roger Frock
Manufacturer: Berrett-Koehler Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Workplace | Organizational Behavior | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | International | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 1576754138

Book Description

For a long time, it looked like FedEx would never get off the ground. The company’s early years were an unending series of legal, financial, and operational crises that continually threatened its ability to stay in business. Yet FedEx's leaders and employees were incredibly resourceful and resilient. Pilots used personal credit cards to gas up planes, paychecks weren’t cashed, and in one of the most famous episodes, founder Fred Smith literally gambled the company’s last remaining funds to keep the planes flying. Becuase Roger Frock was with the companies from the start, he is able to chronicle these real-life hardships and hard-fought triumphs as only an insider can. With humor and insight, he describes how FedEx overcame impossible odds to become one of the world's greatest success stories, a revolutionary company that truly changed the way the world does business.

Customer Reviews:

Jerry R........2007-10-14

This is a fun read... An instructive read....A great and understandable course in MBO, Team Building, and more, and a passinately written account of things in the early days of FedEx as Roger saw them.

Roger has presented his story of the birth of FedEx in a way that makes it difficult to put his book down, which is pretty unlikely for a book on the reading list of many Busines Admin classes. But I truly could not put the book down!

I loved the story of how Roger and his team worked for years to keep the company going. Once the Chairman took some company money, went to Vegas and brought back the winnings to keep FedEx in the air.

But there is so much more...there is a picture drawn of effective team building, management by objectives, and other business methods. The use of the business tools is not obvious as you read. However, upon examininating how Roger was able to build FedEx from zero, his techniques become obvious, also making it obvious why BusAd Profs are using his book. But ignoring the teaching aspect, you can simply sit back and enjoy a wonderful read, with some tense moments, even though we know the final outcome.

The other thing that comes through to me is the true goodness and honesty of Roger Frock. I saw it in him nearly 50 years ago, and I am pleased to see it reflected in his writings.

A fascinating story........2007-08-02

It is hard to imagine what our lives would be like without the reliable overnight delivery system pioneered by FedEx. It is equally difficult to imagine the obstacles that had to be overcome to make this a viable business.

Roger Frock possesses two valuable attributes in telling the FedEx story. First of all he is the ultimate insider who started working with Fred Smith, the founder, before the company was even formed. Secondly, he writes well. The result is a fascinating book that can keep you up late at night.

This is a story about people who were captured by a dream, who lived that dream. The made the dream come true despite times when the dream verged into a nightmare. Not only did the company have to face the problems of a then government regulated industry, but also the OPEC oil embargo, well-established competitors in the air transportation industry and the constant need for venture capital.

Mr. Frock clearly develops the main events through each phase of the company's growth, showing how a committed, talented group of people can work together to make the impossible happen. Along the way he also illustrates solid business principles that can help any company seeking to set and achieve its goals.

Michael Long,
President
Long Financial Services

FedEx story delivers.......2007-05-23

FedEx is more than a household word; it is a household verb replacing the word "delivery" as in, "No worries, we'll FedEx this so they'll have it tomorrow." The story of this colorful company's history and the personalities that brought it to fruition is captivating - filled as it is with cliffhangers, dodged disasters and near failure. In the early days of Federal Express, nothing was a sure thing. Founder Fred Smith and his management team had to elude financial ruin while inventing an entirely new industry. Author and former FedEx general manager Roger Frock fondly recounts the tumultuous early days of the company, although you may wish he had shared more of his insight into the personality of Smith, who remains an elusive unknown. We recommend this book to those who enjoy rags-to-riches corporate stories or to anyone who relies on FedEx to deliver goods that "absolutely, positively have to be there overnight."

Better than expected........2007-05-13

I am a business major and this book was required reading for one of my classes. The teacher said it was a very entertaining book, but seeing as his passion for life is 'management' I wasn't expecting much. But after an initial reading I actually began to get into the material, and was pleasantly suprised to find out that it was quite a good book. It was very interesting to see how the company went from nothing to what it is today, and how peoples lifes were affected by these changes. If you have the slightest interest in business or the transportation industry, I would recommend this item.

Soul of a New Business.......2007-04-30

With apologies to Tracy Kidder!

Mr. Frock's saga, and it can be described only as that, chronicles the birth, development and maturity of FedEX, one of the most successful businesses in US business history. Fred Smith and the team he assembled to develop a really unique idea -- overnight small package delivery to anywhere in the United States -- demonstrated how vision, teamwork, integrity, and creativity CAN overcome daunting challenges. We almost take FedEx for granted now, but Mr. Frock, one of the original senior management team, tells how this was achieved. And the book is one of those page turners, unique really, because we all know how the story ends. But I literally could not put it down.

Some impressions: Mr. Frock tells the story well, making even some of the techical stuff understandable. I really enjoyed his sense of wonder and amazement he expresses at the challenges the company met and overcame. He places people and their personal achivements right where they belong in a story like this -- right in the middle. Mike Collins, the astronaut who orbited the moon while Armstrong and Aldrin landed, once expressed his feelings as the mission went forward: I think we are actually going to pull this off. It is easy to see Roger reaching some tough goal in the business saying that...

Another is the characterization of the formiable FedEx founder, Fred Smith. As Mr. Frock notes when most of senior management team was set to resign when it appeared Mr. Smith himself would be forced to resign in Board dispute: Was our decision to resign the right one? Absolutely! We felt great allegiance to our leader... But even Fred slipped once...but you need to read the bood to find out why. (And why he bet the FedEx checking account in a visit to Vegas...)

Finally, the last section of the book is FedEx's view of the people part of any successful business: an open door policy, security, fair treatment, and employees evaluating management. There are more, but as the story is told, one realizes these principles were actively applied to the the people who made (and make up) the organization.

A great story, well told. Highest marks.

Leading at the Speed of Growth: Journey from Entrepreneur to CEO (Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership)

Average customer rating:

Excellent resource
Knowledge is Success
Roadmap to Success for Entrepreneurs
Required reading for several audiences.
A Superb Look at the Changing Demands on the CEO

Leading at the Speed of Growth: Journey from Entrepreneur to CEO (Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership)
Katherine Catlin , and Jana Matthews
Manufacturer: Wiley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Leadership | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Management | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Entrepreneurship | Small Business & Entrepreneurship | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

All Amazon Upgrade | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

Business & Investing | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books
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ASIN: 0764553666

Book Description

Learn how to take your company to the next level of growth through the stories of over 500 successful entrepreneurs. Developed by the Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, this flagship book introduces a new series on managing growth. The authors expertly guide you through the three stages of entrepreneurial growth: initial growth, rapid growth, and continuous growth. Personal stories told by successful entrepreneurs reveal the hows and whys of evolving as a leader at each stage, identifying red flags, vital signs, and secrets of sustained growth. Become a dynamic leader by using this book as your roadmap to entrepreneurial success.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent resource.......2006-05-21

What a great book. When I first rec'd it, I was a bit disappointed about how thin it was (I guess I didn't see how many pages it was when I ordered it), but it makes up for it by being packed full of tremendously useful stories and strategies.

This is one of the best books focused on entrepreneurship/growth I've read outside of Jim Collins' works. I can't wait to get the 2nd in the series. Unfortunately, it appears they stopped at 2.

Knowledge is Success.......2002-05-13

Actually, When you are working in the E-commerce and Internet Age; we are needing to know more about " Yourself, Your Role, Yor Future and Your Potential ".
Knowledge Your Worker and Your People are the major concerns when your company is during rapid growth !

This Book is good for every CEO and entrepeneur reengineering !

Roadmap to Success for Entrepreneurs.......2001-10-14

I found this book to be very insightful and refreshing. I have been reading about 2-3 books on leadership/marketing/business for the past 3 months as I have considered going the entrepreneurial route. If you are an entrepreneur or thinking about becoming one I highly recommend you read this book. Why?

This book clearly illustrates to the entrepreneur the different skill sets he/she will have to adopt over the long-term if your company is on a high-growth trajectory. Have you ever noticed that most CEOs aren't the person that founded the company? I have seen many founders resign, step aside to bring in more seasoned managers, etc. The United States is such a successful country because of our capital formation and entrepreneurial spirit. Entrepreneurs create a huge number of jobs as capital and people are always seeking out companies they believe can change the way a certain business is done.

Lets say you have money, you have growth, and you have employees. What do you do to manage these different constituencies and grow the company so you will still be around to see the company prosper? This book clearly provides the roadmap (almost like a blueprint for the fast-growing CEO to adhere to.)

Required reading for several audiences........2001-08-05

Commentary, August, 2001. This is an important book for several audiences. First, it should help entrepreneurs understand the skills and experience that are required to move from start up, or as the authors put it, from "initial growth," through "rapid growth," and finally into "continuous growth" phases. Thoughtful entrepreneurs will ask of themselves: "Do I have those shills - if not, what must I do to gain them? And, do I have what it takes to do so?" If they are truly honest with themselves, a good number will realize that it will take different individuals with different skills and experience to lead their creation through these phases, and act accordingly.

The second group range from board directors, especially if venture capitalists are among them, and trusted personal advisors, especially if the entrepreneur does not have a true board comprised of some seasoned executives or consultants with requisite experience. These are the individuals who are in the best position to make these kind of judgments.

Many years ago, I was in the office of the head of one of the more successful venture capital firms in Boston...let's call him Mr. D. The purpose of our meeting was to discuss a possible collaboration with one of his ventures. As the discussion unfolded, it was clear that his attention was elsewhere, so I asked him if this was the case. He seemed relieved, and emotionally stated that he had just concluded a phone conversation with the outside directors of a promising venture in which he was the lead investor. The venture, with annual revenues over $20 million, was pioneering a new, important technological field. The outside directors were aware of the leadership problems, and were not surprised that Mr. D. was recommending the removal of the founder and his replacement an individual Mr. D. believed had the skills, experience, and desire to lead the company well into the rapid growth phase profitably. This was in spite of Mr. D's several frank one-on-one discussions with the firm's founder that revolved around his bringing in a new CEO, thereby permitting the founder to concentrate on the R&D efforts that were so essential for success. The founder refused to relinquish total control of his baby.

The founder's loss represented a serious setback for the investors, but one if not taken put the venture at extreme risk. It took several years before the company got back on its rapid growth phase while retaining its leadership position in its markets.

Would the entrepreneur have acted differently if he had read Catlin & Matthews' book with its real life examples? I can't tell, but he might have accepted his new role...after all, it would have been in his own self-interest - he owned about 30% of the stock.

Another example. I was on the board of a company facing the same kind of problem. The company had grown from $800,000 in revenues to somewhat over $5 million in 15 months. The CEO confided in me that the joy of building his creation was being displaced by too many operating details. First he brought in a solid COO, but soon thereafter asked us the board to find his replacement. He gave us enough time to do this as we worked out ways we could collaborate with him in the near future.

Similar stories repeated time and time again. Catlin & Matthews offer constructive advise to help entrepreneurs make it through their growth phases - or to counsel them to face reality. Bravo, Katherine and Jana; may your book gain widespread use.

Catlin & Matthews at least spell out for entrepreneurs the nature of the game they are in. To ignore their advice seems, to me, to be foolhardy.

A Superb Look at the Changing Demands on the CEO.......2001-06-28

Summary: Almost everyone has an idea at some point in their lives for a great new company. Of those who go forward with those ideas, few actually get to stick around to enjoy all of the benefits of the eventual success. The reason is that many such founder CEOs remain stuck in the roles and habits that were essential to getting off to a good start. Those habits in turn become the limitations that keep the enterprise from growing. This book is an invaluable resource for CEOs who want to understand how they need to grow with the job. The book would have been greatly improved by including a focus on how the top management team needs to change its roles and focus as well. Without that detailed level of perspective, CEOs will still stumble with this information.

Review: "But the sad reality is that relatively few members of this wave of entrepreneurs will still be in charge when the companies they founded break through to super success." "The mission of Learning at the Speed of Growth is to enable many more entrepreneurs to be great leaders of growth companies."

The book's title is an outstanding one for its subject. The CEO's ability to learn is a key key limit to a company's success. When an improved product or service ignites rapid growth, it is typical for the growth to exceed that of the CEO's ability to learn. The board eventually finds a replacement who already has those lessons under her or his belt.

While no book can teach you everything you need to know, you can use this book as a road map to tell you where you need to go next.

"The irony of entrepreneurial ledership is that the very behaviors and habit patterns that lead to success at one stage of growth contribute to failure in the next stage." Keep that lesson in mind. It's the important take-away from this book.

In the start-up phase, the CEO is both a doer and a decision-maker. In the initial growth phase, the CEO's best roles are as delegator and direction setter. If the CEO tries to keep doing all the key roles, the CEO becomes a stall who delays everything. In the rapid growth phase, the CEO's best roles are as team builder, coach, planner, and communicator. That's the stage where many CEO's don't have the experience to leap the talent chasm within themselves. Think of Chuck Scwab as a good role model here. In the continuous growth phase, the CEO should be a change catalyst, organization builder, promoter of innovation, and chief of culture. Think of Herb Kelleher of Southwest Airlines in that last role.

The book also addresses what the company's focus should be. During start-up, it's developing new products and services. During initial growth, it's driving sales forward. In rapid growth, it is leading the market. And in continuous growth it is dominating the industry. Those who have followed Geoffrey Moore's work will recognize a similarity to the stages he describes in Crossing the Chasm and Inside the Tornado.

The material in the book is greatly improved by sections called "red flags" where warning signs of the need to change are identified.

I found the book to be limited in not providing enough guidance about the roles of the rest of the top management team during these transitions. The work of Adizes on that subject is a good complement to the material in this fine book.

CEOs would do well to find coaches to help them with these transitions if the shifts call for roles for which they have no experience. Those who wish to be CEOs of start-ups would be helped by organizing their careers to get these experiences before becoming a CEO.

A take-away from this book is to think about all of the roles in which you have to change in your life. For example, as a parent, you are initially a loving adult and caregiver for babies. But when you children are 25, they need something different. You need to make those transitions along the way, or you lose the connection to their most urgent emotional, psychological, and physical needs.

Learn the art of improvisation . . . so that you can play any role on a moment's notice!

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