Spies, Inc.: Business Innovation from Israel's Masters of Espionage

Rating:
Summary: A Remarkable Tale
Review: How is it that the State of Israel, a tiny nation of a few million, surrounded -- and infiltrated -- by declared enemies, does not just survive, but thrive? How does she stay safe in such a vaporous region?

This book uniquely answers these perplexing questions with a fascinating exploration of Unit 8200, an elite, secret Israeli espionage team that operates more like a university think tank, than a crew of James Bonds. These are the thinking man's spies, and it is remarkable to read Stacy Perman's account of their inventiveness.

Don't be fooled by the marketing. This is a not a self-help book per se -- although there is much to learn from Israeli ingenuity. Spies Inc. is a great work of long-form journalism on a tough topic. Not just that, but it's a great read -- like a good spy book.

In fairness, I most note that Ms. Perman is a friend of this reviewer. But that does not diminish her accomplishment. Spies Inc. deserves commendation, and reading it helped shape my newfound appreciation of Israel and why we, as Americans, should be inordinately proud to count the nation among our global allies.

Rating:
Summary: Demystifying espionage
Review: Stacy Perman is one of a rare breed: a great writer, but even better, a great storyteller. She makes the world of Israeli espionage interesting, engaging and relevant, even to this would-be cynic. The jacket says this is her first book, but I can't quite believe that. She has the investigative instincts of a seasoned entrepreneurial journalist coupled with an easy-to-understand writing style that makes this somewhat esoteric subject matter understandable. Can't wait for the second book!

Rating:
Summary: thriller meets the business world - in Israel
Review: Veteran business reporter Stacy Perman tells the story of how top-secret members of the Israeli intelligence agency go on to use their expertise at some of Israel's most interesting high-tech start-ups.

The stories read more like a literary spy novel than a business case study - something that helps readers new to the subject keep turning the pages. With the Mid East playing such a crucial role in contemporary international relations, Perman's book sheds light on an important aspect of the Israeli military and its offshoots.

I recommend this for anyone interested in gaining a better understanding of international affairs in the Mid East or of business and innovation. 5 stars!!