Kevin Eikenberry: Remarkable Leadership

You pick up a new book and begin to read.  What causes you to shelve it or continue on?

If it is written by a familiar author you'll likely read on.  If it is a topic that you enjoy you'll likely read on.  If it is written in such a way that its messages penetrate, causing you to think, you'll likely read on.

Kevin Eikenberry's new book, Remarkable Leadership hits me squarely on all three of the above reasons.   I have had a galley of  Remarkable Leadership for a couple of weeks.  It quickly made its way to the top of my to read list, even elbowing the highly popular Made to Stick out of the way -  because I know Kevin.

What actually caused me to come over here to my computer and write about Kevin's book before I finished it are two penetrating messages that appear before page seven.  Kevin uses an analogy of hall of fame hockey player Wayne Gretsky and the individual skills that made him the greatest hockey player of all time against the skills or core competencies that make an effective leader.  Next, Kevin uses a tree to enlighten us on strengthening strengths versus working on weaknesses. 

The ability of a person to relate a concept against other things that people already know, is the mark of a most excellent teacher.  Not only does Mr. Eikenberry do this, but he does it like Walter Payton, like Judy Garland, like Ozzie Smith, like Michael Jordan, like Tiger Woods...with ease and smoothness.

I had to double check the copyright date of Kevin's last book Vantagepoints on Learning and Life.  At first I thought it was written twenty years ago.  Because there's no way for someone to improve their writing that much in any less time.   But Kevin did.  The first thirty pages are very well written and it is enough for me to tell you that you must pick up a copy today!

Comments

[Ruth]

Hi Dave,

I'm very excited, but not surprised, to read your recommendation of Kevin's new book. Kevin's writing has been one of my favorite sources of inspiration for years. In fact, I discovered your blog through Kevin's.

I can't wait to get my hands on this book!

[dave]

Kevin's ability and talent to relate life's experiences to lessons in life is most rare.

Thanks for stopping over Ruth!

[dave]

btw Ruth, I noticed that you have a passion for learning. I'd like to formally invite you to our vibrant, learning community. Joyful Jubilant Learning. http://www.joyfuljubilantlearning.com/joyful_jubilant_learning/

[Ruth]

Thanks for the invitation, Dave! I do have a passion for learning, and I love sharing that passion with others. I am very excited to join the Joyful Jubilant Learning community!

[Kevin Eikenberry]

I am humbled by your words Dave. I hope the rest of the book lived up to the first 30 pages.

Thanks for the post.

Kevin :)