Out of the 20 businesses that the book profiles, I thought that on the most part 13 of them were just plain boring. I tried to read the book in one shot but found myself falling asleep as I trudged through the pages. A better way to read the book, I discovered, was to read it chapter by chapter, on different days and at different times.
You will gain insights into the different companies, which will enable you to appear insightful when participating in conversations, unfortunately your knowledge will be rather skin deep as the book does not probe very far beneath the surface.
The book enabled me to sort through the stories, pick the best ones, and now I will go out and buy other books which are about those companies or people that interested me, (such as David Ogilvy). I also found that the book made great use of language and I was always equipped with a pen, writing down and looking up numerous words.
From Robert Morris to Bill Gates; the books takes you on a promonade into their kingdoms. Explaining to the reader many valuable information about each "tycoon's" personality, enterprise, industry, and the general business environment in his particular era.
I personally enjoyed the chapters on David Ogilvy, Ray Croc, Sam Walton, Walt Disney, Joseph Wilson, Henry Ford and Harley Davidson.
The book portrays many successful personalities and companies that will be of interest to people in varying specializations within Business.
An enjoyable read and a good reference.
Also read "Lessons from the Top" and "Radical Marketing"
However, I thought the stories were lacking in detail to make it truly a great read. After reading the book, I felt that I was introduced to the great figures in business. But to know them better, I have to read another book.
For example, I knew something about Henry Ford before reading the book. In the story about Henry Ford, I found it superficial. However, in other stories that I was not familiar with the protagonist, like McGowan, I found the story illuminating. I never knew the telecommunications business could be so interesting.
As such, I recommend this book to people who wants to know some of the greatest people in business. But to those who want to find out about the secrets to their success, the answer will lie in other more detailed books.