Book Summaries
This page is host to summaries for reading that I have done for leadership research, personal faith development, organizational culture, history, athletics, biographies and more. I am continually adding to this list. These books are listed in alphabetical order by author last name (not in any ranking order) and cover a wide range of genres.
For a more directed study on leadership reading take a look at the Stay The Course Leaders Reading Challenge. Be sure to take a peak at my full summaries of highlights, notes and takeaways for each book, as well as multiple avenues to purchase the book if you so desire.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Brief Summary: An instant classic read. James Clear brings us loads of research and information on habits, how to break bad habits, how to develop habits, and how it can revolutionize your life, leadership, and organization.
The Making of a Leader by Dr. J. Robert Clinton
Brief Summary: Dr. Robert Clinton brings us a sensational read on the development process that takes place in the life of a leader. This book will encourage you as you see traces of development in your own journey. This will also be a great resource as you mentor younger leaders.
How to Win at the Sport of Business by Mark Cuban
Brief Summary: Charismatic business leader and owner of the Dallas Mavericks, Mark Cuban does an amazing job sharing his story along with personal wisdom from his journey. Cuban takes readers from life as a recent college grad through the launch of his first business.
Getting To Us by Seth Davis
Brief Summary: Davis weaves his common theme of each leader’s "PEAK Profile” through the stories of some of the best coaches and leaders in the world. Davis provides some incredible inside access to some of the biggest leaders in sports.
You Win In The Locker Room First by Jon Gordon & Mike Smith
Brief Summary: Best selling author Jon Gordon teams up with former Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith to deliver a must read on leadership and organizational culture. Gordon & Smith break down seven key characteristics to building winning teams.
Relentless by Tim Grover
Brief Summary: A view inside the mind of one of the world’s best physical and mental trainers. Tim Grover was the personal trainer for Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and many other hall of fame basketball players. Read his firsthand thoughts on the pursuit greatness.
The Keeper by Tim Howard
Brief Summary: A great look into an elite athlete and mind. Tim Howard shares his personal story in this read with tremendous vulnerability. This read is full of great insights into the making of elite teams, elite athletes and even a look into the personal price that is paid on the way to the top.
Leading By Design: The IKEA Story by Ingvar Kamprad & Bertil Torekull
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Brief Summary: An incredible look into the humble beginnings of Ingvar Kamprad and his slow creation of one of the biggest brands in the world. A great up close look at the life of Ingvar Kamprad.
Running For My Life by Lopez Lomong
Brief Summary: An incredible story about a world class runner and his journey from being kidnapped by rebel soldiers in war-torn Sudan to becoming an Olympian for the United States of America.
Scary Close by Donald Miller
Brief Summary: A phenomenal read on relationships and intimacy. Not just for romance, but for friendships, business partnerships as well. A vulnerable, relatable read that has direct connections to leading and cultivating a culture of trust.
The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
Brief Summary: A challenging read a times. Step into the mind of a world renowned author. Steven Pressfield maps out the difference between an amateur and a professional. He also discusses the common resistance to creative work whether it is writing, music, website code, or painting.
Homegrown by Alex Speier
Brief Summary: A peak behind the curtain on how one of the greatest teams in the history of baseball was assembled. The 2018 Boston Red Sox was made up of many home grown prospects and a few high profile stars. Read about how the clubhouse culture made for a historic season.
A Glorious Dark by A.J. Swoboda
Brief Summary: A raw, honest, and truthful read on authentic faith. A.J. Swoboda doesn’t pull punches on the reality of faith and life. If you haver ever wrestled with how your faith interacts with the harsh realities of life - you will enjoy this read.
The Winner’s Manual by Jim Tressel
Brief Summary: Hall of fame coach Jim Tressel breaks down the manual he used for years as a national championship coach and developer of men. Tressel goes through his sensational formula for building winners for life.
The Score Takes Care of Itself by Bill Walsh
Brief Summary: Memoirs and leadership philosophies from one of the greatest coaches who ever lived. Incredible stories and practical advice from “the professor"
Character Carved in Stone by Pat Williams
Brief Summary: Pat Williams takes us to the prestigious United States Military Academy in West Point, New York to discuss the twelve virtues of one of the most prestigious academies and leadership hotbeds in the world.
Leadership Strategy & Tactics by Jocko Willink
Brief Summary: Written in the form of a field manual, this book by Jocko Willink is full of leadership practices. Former Navy Seal, Jocko Willink provides an amazing resource for leaders that is not a one time read but a manual to be referenced for situational leadership tactics and strategies.