Rating: Summary: An intriguing look at the man and the mouse Review: I was drawn to this book after watching Eisner plug it on the Today show and, hoping for the best, bought it that very night. It was no mistake -- this was one of the most enjoyable non-fiction books I have read in ages. I literally could not put it down and finished it in two and a half days. Eisner does a wonderful job of telling Disney's history (as well as snippets of the history of Paramount and ABC), putting a human face on what in other similar tomes has resulted in a stream of dry business facts. (Granted, I am a corporate attorney, so I was also intrigued by the business details -- it may well be that others mind find it somewhat dry). In any event, as a reader you are treated for what is, or at least seems to be, a candid look behind the scenes of an American pop culture icon (Disney, not Eisner, although after finishing the book I want nothing more than to land a job working directly for the man.) It was refreshing to see that someone as successful as Eisner in corporate Americal also has a human side.
Rating: Summary: great insight to big business Review: I wish there were more books like this out there. It had interesting points about the company from the top man. The book was easy to read and understand, however it got to a point where it seemed liked he was dropping a lot of names
Rating: Summary: Great book to read for a Disney fan. Review: If you like Disney this is a must read. Even if your just like media in general and want to learn about one of the worlds most successful corporations. This book does drag a little, but all in all a very interesting book to read, and see what Michael Eisner went through to get the company to where it is today. I really enjoyed the parts in which some of Disney's ideas and plan didnt work quite as planned. Even Disney had some bad ideas, and some failed ideas but they learned and adjusted, and look where they are now.
Rating: Summary: Disney or How to do it right Review: If you read this book, you will understand that the life of CEO is made of hard work, commitment, great understanding of what is the essence of your business and luck. Even though you have all these qualities, life will bring challenges that you'll have to manage, such as the loss of a dear friend, who happened to be your right hand or health problems. But, if you are a good CEO, all these experiences are opportunities of learning and will bring you wisdom.Luck: Michael Eisner was at the point to be fired from Paramount just when Disney made him the offer to be the CEO. Commitment: When he is on vacation with his family, he is visiting the closest Disneystore or the attraction parcs, just to get some ideas. Hard Work: Everything is in the amount of work you put into your job. Vacations doesn't seem a word that Michael Eisner understands. Great understanding of the business: if you want to undertake a masterful strategy lesson, you have to read this book. He clearly understands what a brand means and how to take advantage of it by cross selling properties in attraction parks, movies, TV, animation etc.. The most important is to be in front of the consumer where ever he is inside the home or outside. One last great lesson is to not compromize your brand because a brand represents a community of users with common goals and values. Even though you do it right, everything will change if something unexpected happens. The death of Frank, his right hand, has destabilized Disney for a while but it was an opportunity to make the necessary changes, including asking Jeffrey Katzenberg to leave, that Disney needed to keep going.
Rating: Summary: A MAGIC KINGDOM OF A BOOK Review: It appears to me that Michael Eisner is one of the few people in America that has a perfect job for a perfect candidate. He discounts his expertise somewhat, but is truly the guiding light of a great corporation. 'Tis very interesting reading about the various meetings held among the very highest achievers of our country and the "deals" that can occur at those gatherings. Michael's autobiography is great in talking about his formative years and the influence and importance of a summer camp he attended through his younger years. I just hope the Disney Company does not gobble up the whole world, because I do think they are capable. A fine reading experience that shows an important CEO can screw up at times just like you and me.
Rating: Summary: Amazing behind the scenes look at powerful and rich men. Review: Just a great read for anyone who loves show biz. You will better understand what really takes place behind the scenes, and how they make movies for less without sacraficing quality. This book could be used to help yourself succeed more just by using Eisner's ideas! Treasure trove of strategies of how to get ahead and stay there. I bet the guys at Dream Works have read this one! Go Mickey Go !
Rating: Summary: the other side of the story Review: Michael Eisner is a true inovator at Disney. This book details the rise of Disney with an inside look at some of the strategic that were made decisions. Some of Michael Eisner's difficult personal relationships were glossed over (Katzenberg, Ovitz)and some were too lengthy (Wells) but overall a well informed book about Micheal Eisner and Disney.
Rating: Summary: Moused Review: Michael Eisner is a true inovator at Disney. This book details the rise of Disney with an inside look at some of the strategic that were made decisions. Some of Michael Eisner's difficult personal relationships were glossed over (Katzenberg, Ovitz)and some were too lengthy (Wells) but overall a well informed book about Micheal Eisner and Disney.
Rating: Summary: Chairman and CEO of the world... Review: Michael Eisner's autobiography "Work In Progress" was a remarkable book based on the life of a remarkable man. After reading it, I found myself looking at the ways that Disney does business and understanding why they do it that way. Being a Disney lover and an Imagineer hopeful, this book gave me insight as to what the Chairman and CEO of probably the most recognizable company in the world has gone through to get where he is. It is personal and touching, but also straight-forward and hard hitting. Well written and a very well told life story, "Work In Progress" is for anyone who loves Disney, loves business and loves to combine the two. For Michael Eisner, it's not a small world after all. It's his world and he keeps making it bigger and better for everyone to enjoy.
Rating: Summary: An insightful picture of Mr. Eisner's Magic Kingdom. Review: Michael Eisner, with Tony Schwartz (Art of the Deal), have given us a wonederful book describing just how the Disney Company has, does and will continue to dazzle us all. From Walt's dreams to Michael's hopes/plans for the future. If you are a fan of the Wonderful World of Disney (and aren't we all) this is a definate buy and read book for your library. So, you may be asking, if this book is so great why doesn't it get 4 stars? Just because there were no pictures! How could you write a story about Disney and have absolutely no pictures? Shame on you Michael! Perhaps a sequel -- this time with lots of pictures of places, people and things?
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