Review by Sydney Nyamasoka -- Leadership

[Sydney Nyamasoka]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Leadership" by Craig B. Whelden.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Leadership is vital in all spheres of life to varying degrees depending on the number of followers being led and the mission at hand. Being a leader is challenging. This is mainly because of the ultimate accountability and responsibility that the leader bears. The basics of leadership are universal and you can learn from Major General Craig B. Whelden U.S. Army (Retired). He authored an excellent book titled, ‘Leadership: The Art of Inspiring People to Be Their Best.’ The author dedicates this book to his dad, the 1st Lieutenant, George T. Whelden Jr. He says that it is his dad who inspired him at an early age to climb his own mountain and to be his best.

The book is available in both print and e-book format. It is a quick yet practical and deeply insightful read with 24 concise chapters and the must-read, 'Whelden Philosophy of Command' at the end, all spread over 158 pages. The practicality of the leadership principles in the book is reflective of the author’s superb achievements in his military career. The author spent 30 years in the U.S. Army, followed by 7 in the private sector, and another 9 as a member of the Senior Executive Service (S.E.S) with the U.S. Marine Corps.

I appreciated and liked that the chapters are neatly structured and concise yet meaningful. Each chapter begins with a thought-provoking quote meant to engage the reader’s mind. The English is clear and simple yet delivering meaning and emphasis on lessons and advice. Overall, the editing is excellent because I only noticed two minor errors.

The first chapter is about character. Character is said to be leadership’s basic building block.
The author states that a critical and foundational element of excellent leaders is character. Character is built on qualities like ambition, perseverance, self-awareness, empathy, humility, integrity, and seriousness in the leadership role assumed. Even if you don’t consider yourself a natural leader, effective training and experience can make you a great leader if your attitude is right. Leadership can be taught if the aspiring leader has the basic building blocks in his or her character.

I found the inclusion of photos visually interesting because I could closely connect with the author’s experiences and appreciate the lessons, advice, and moments of achievement.

I recommend this book to aspiring army officials, generals, and patriotic soldiers, all being USA citizens with interest in the dynamics of military leadership, ideals, possible dangers, and moving up the ranks. As for leaders in non-military organizations, there are some vital universal points and principles to learn. Learning from this book can also push the bar of excellence upward. However, do not expect detailed business-oriented aspects of leadership. I have said this in light of the detailed accounts of, and frequent references to, the author’s career in the army and marines. If you are looking for a book with purely business leadership principles, look elsewhere.

I rate this book with 4 out of 4 stars because it is professionally edited, simply excellent, instructive, and easy to read.

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Leadership
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[Chipochashe]

Thanks for the informative review Sydney. It certainly piques my interest. I am sure the lessons from the author's military career can be applied elsewhere with some imagination. Thanks again!

[Sydney Nyamasoka]

Thanks for the informative review Sydney. It certainly piques my interest. I am sure the lessons from the author's military career can be applied elsewhere with some imagination. Thanks again!

You're welcome Chipochashe. Indeed, you're right. Thanks for your comment.