Ronald

Great Book! Great Narration!

Revisado: 08-11-15

David McCullough's narration took me a few minutes to get used to. His style is very folksy and I thought, at first, a bit boring. But just like his subjects, the Wright Brothers, the initial impression is deceiving. His style is wholly appropriate to time when respect and professionalism ruled. Mr. McCullough sticks to the facts, like good historian should, but somehow arranges the facts in such a way that with a subtle choice of wording and a slight twist of the voice he had me on the edge of my seat throughout most of the book. At many time I felt tears welling in my eyes at the witness of so many historic events. A great book and a great read. Thank you. Please consider writing a book on the early days of aviation post Wright Brothers.

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Disjointed and Backward Looking

Revisado: 10-13-13

What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you?

If the book would have given some insights into how good decisions are made. Instead, the author writes a list of critiques on various decisions made in the past. The list should at least be organized into general themes. Instead the author rambles on from one critique with the next and I am left wondering: "What is the point?" This is the ultimate Monday Morning Quarterback book of decision making.

What could Helga Drummond have done to make this a more enjoyable book for you?

Organize. Organize your thoughts and make some coherent points. Use historical examples to illustrate main ideas and then move on to give the reader something positive; something actionable for their decision making process.

How did the narrator detract from the book?

The narrator sounded angry and often spoke with contempt for the illustrated decision makers, some of whom were great leaders and successful decision makers in general. The tone of disrespect and derision simply magnified the poor writing of the author.

If you could play editor, what scene or scenes would you have cut from Guide to Decision Making?

As editor I would have never allowed this book to go to print.

Any additional comments?

I don't normally write reviews. I have always found value in in any event, play, book, or essay I have ever read or listened to. Some are better and some are worse but I always respect the author for their art and effort. This book is different. Although the author is clearly intelligent as can be seen in her word craft, the book is incoherent and absolutely painful. I have never listened to anything so painful. It is a list of contemptuous criticisms of poor decisions that some very good people have made. The book is aloof and elitist. Worse yet, it offers no method or suggestions as to how to make good decisions. Don't waste your time or money on this book.

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