Rating: 
Summary: Another great American success story!
Review: A remarkable story of a remarkable man. The book provides honest insight into Reg as a businessman and a clear glimpse into his private life. I especially appreciated how the book does not sugarcoat his sometimes explosive personality. The results of his extreme drive and his unwillingness to accept defeat are an inspiration to all. Although he was no saint and maybe someone you wouldn't want as a boss, his focus on his goals was unwavering. He showed that there really is no limit to what can be achieved through very hard work.When I finished the book, it left me saying "Anything is indeed possible". Truly an inspirational story.
Rating:
Summary: VISIONARY!
Review: After reading this book, you can't help but agree that Reginald Lewis was a visionary. After years of hearing others say "You've gotta read the book," I finally did, and there was no regret. While reading, I could relate to quite a few hurdles that Lewis had to jump; and despite the opposition to all that he had in mind, he remained focused on his ultimate goal. Its obvious that he wasn't trying to impress anyone, or prove that an African-American could do it. He was proving to the world that African-Americans are just as human as anyone else; therefore, we should be judged based upon our character, and work. This book of Lewis' life and work was an inspiration, and I would recommend that anyone of color, or anyone who feels the pressure of the world telling them "to slow down and be like the rest of us," should READ THIS BOOK!
Rating:
Summary: VISIONARY!
Review: After reading this book, you can't help but agree that Reginald Lewis was a visionary. After years of hearing others say "You've gotta read the book," I finally did, and there was no regret. While reading, I could relate to quite a few hurdles that Lewis had to jump; and despite the opposition to all that he had in mind, he remained focused on his ultimate goal. Its obvious that he wasn't trying to impress anyone, or prove that an African-American could do it. He was proving to the world that African-Americans are just as human as anyone else; therefore, we should be judged based upon our character, and work. This book of Lewis' life and work was an inspiration, and I would recommend that anyone of color, or anyone who feels the pressure of the world telling them "to slow down and be like the rest of us," should READ THIS BOOK!
Rating: 
Summary: POWERFUL BLACK MEN
Review: I AM A SENIOR IN HIGH SCHOOL AND I RECENTLY HAD TO READ THE BOOK FOR MY UNITED STATES HISTORY. I THOUGHT THE BOOK WOULD BE BORING, BUT IT TAUGHT ME A LOT ABOUT SOCIETY. I REALLY ENJOYED READING THIS BOOK.
Rating:
Summary: The sub-title would have been a better title. Oh well.
Review: I came across this book through the recommendation of an acquaintance. I was initially put off by the title, it seemed arrogant, but my philosophy of learning from everyone helped me get over it. At the end of the day this is a great book. The format is confusing because Mr.Lewis passed away while still in the process of completing it. Mr.Walker does his best to keep Mr.Lewis's voice, but he fails in many ways. As for the content, it is riveting. To see the humble beginnings of a man that decided that "No" was not good enough is tremendous. The lesson that I learned from him is that "acquisition" is just as good, if not better than organic growth. He pursued McCall Patterns with a tenacity that was both admirable and envious. Who else could see the potential? No one apparently, and is coup landed him a 70x's return on his money in under five years. Then to move into the food industry with the same energy was impressive. It is unfortunate that he passed away so suddenly, his value investing was very much right out of Benjamin Grahams school of thinking, and Mr.Lewis definitely had the potential to become the next Mr.Buffett. Great book, it really set the tone for how I will grow my own business.
Rating:
Summary: The Title Speaks for Itself
Review: I really enjoyed reading this book about an extraordinary african american businessman.What drove me to want to read about him was the fact that black history month has just passed in February and there was very little discussion about him.I read the book in 2 days and was totally fascinated at what he accomplished.Reg Lewis mastered the financial skills that enabled him to become a major Wall Street player among the likes of Mike Milken,Carl Icahn,and KKR.He is an inspiration to all young,smart, and ambituos african americans who aspire to succeed in corporate america.Reg Lewis is my hero.
Rating:
Summary: A insightful guide to success
Review: Reading this book has given a whole new meaning to the term of success. The only regret is not being able to see Reginald Lewis in action today. From the onset of the book he describes what it is like to chase success down and conquer it. This book provides a blueprint for breaking the color barriers in the world of finance, mergers and acqusitions and lbo's. For any aspiring character of color who considers entering the world of movers and shakers, trust me this is the book you MUST read.
Rating:
Summary: Unfortunately there are only 5 stars to give to this book...
Review: Reginald F. Lewis offers to us a guidebook on perseverance, not understanding limitation and humanity that is certainly a must read. He teaches us through his life that the many self-imposed limitations are the greatest obstacle to success. To see a man dedicate himself to his familiy, business and community in a manner that should be considered enviable for ALL races, is truly inspirational. A consumate "player" Reg sought to understand "the game" and all of its nuances then to play it to perfection. He recognized the role that race played but would not allow it to be a limiting factor in his personal or business lives. His life serves as a testament to the triumph of the human condition over a hand that many would say should have dealt him out of the game. I consider this book my inspiration and guide as I navigate the waters of business and investment. The title may put off many but it speaks volumes to Mr. Lewis' philosophy. If readers of all races step back and consider what this title represented to him they will understand the motivations underguirding its meaning and the actually "color blind" nature of this work which should be considered a text as well as an autobiography of a great man.
Rating:
Summary: A Model For Black Enterprise
Review: Reginald F. Lewis was in the process of jotting down the details of his remarkable rise to power and influence when his beautiful mind finally lost its struggle against brain cancer. Neither his iron will or his indomitable spirit, which had conquered Wall Street and the streets of East Baltimore, could overcome the ominous growth inside his brain. Although Lewis died at the age of 50, he truly experienced several lifetimes of happiness and achievements. Blair S. Walker does a wonderful job of takin Lewis' unfinished memoir and combining it with interviews of Lewis' family and friends in order to tell the story of a black man who was a loving husband, father, son, brother, philanthropist and civil rights activist. In addition to his love for his family and his people, Lewis loved learning and mastering the art of the deal. This passion lead to him becoming a successful lawyer and one of the wealthiest black entrepreneurs in history. Walker does not sugarcoat Lewis' explosive personality and temper. Rather, Walker tries to make his reader understand that Lewis' legendary explosions propelled a young man who was determined not to be a financial burden upon anyone. Such a determination resulted in Lewis developing an incredible work ethic and the lofty goal of becoming a millionaire. Lewis would constantly critique his work performance and demand better from himself. Anyone working with or for Lewis who gave less than maximum effort would be rebuked by Lewis and informed that such lack of effort is "not acceptable." Lewis was driven and seemingly indefatigable. By the time of his death in 1993, Lewis had amassed a personal fortune that Forbes magazine estimated to be in excess of $400 million dollars. Reginald Lewis' accomplishments are truly remarkable and inspirational. After reading the book the first time, I developed a strategic plan and timeline for achieving certain goals. My second read of the book has caused me to revise my plan. Lewis forced me to ask myself the question: "Why should white guys have all the fun?" This book is a must read for young black men who dare to dream of one day becoming rich.
Rating:
Summary: A Model For Black Enterprise
Review: Reginald F. Lewis was in the process of jotting down the details of his remarkable rise to power and influence when his beautiful mind finally lost its struggle against brain cancer. Neither his iron will or his indomitable spirit, which had conquered Wall Street and the streets of East Baltimore, could overcome the ominous growth inside his brain. Although Lewis died at the age of 50, he truly experienced several lifetimes of happiness and achievements. Blair S. Walker does a wonderful job of takin Lewis' unfinished memoir and combining it with interviews of Lewis' family and friends in order to tell the story of a black man who was a loving husband, father, son, brother, philanthropist and civil rights activist. In addition to his love for his family and his people, Lewis loved learning and mastering the art of the deal. This passion lead to him becoming a successful lawyer and one of the wealthiest black entrepreneurs in history. Walker does not sugarcoat Lewis' explosive personality and temper. Rather, Walker tries to make his reader understand that Lewis' legendary explosions propelled a young man who was determined not to be a financial burden upon anyone. Such a determination resulted in Lewis developing an incredible work ethic and the lofty goal of becoming a millionaire. Lewis would constantly critique his work performance and demand better from himself. Anyone working with or for Lewis who gave less than maximum effort would be rebuked by Lewis and informed that such lack of effort is "not acceptable." Lewis was driven and seemingly indefatigable. By the time of his death in 1993, Lewis had amassed a personal fortune that Forbes magazine estimated to be in excess of $400 million dollars. Reginald Lewis' accomplishments are truly remarkable and inspirational. After reading the book the first time, I developed a strategic plan and timeline for achieving certain goals. My second read of the book has caused me to revise my plan. Lewis forced me to ask myself the question: "Why should white guys have all the fun?" This book is a must read for young black men who dare to dream of one day becoming rich.
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