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The Little Red Book of Wisdom
The search for wisdom invariably leads us back to the places we've overlooked. The Little Red Book of Wisdom takes the reader on a journey so often sidestepped in favor of the newer, quicker, easier. If you're seeking simplicity in a complicated world, Mark DeMoss's insights will illuminate your path to a wiser and more deliberate way of living. By illuminating the notions of integrity, humility, and self-restraint, DeMoss demonstrates what is possible when we value listening and thinking over talking and doing. Step out of the incessant business of your daily life, and spend a few moments learning timeless and foolproof truths that you can apply right away. Wisdom is not just for past generations; it calls to us today. We need only respond.
194 pages, Hardcover
First published March 13, 2007
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456 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
December 1, 2025
I am astonished at the number of positive reviews this book has. Buckle up girls, this will be a long one.
I received this book as a graduation present (many years ago lmao). This year has brought some major life changes and stressors, so I was excited to finally crack this book open and garner some inspiration from it. What I discovered was mainly a handful of pieces of good advice overpowered by self-aggrandizing stories from the author's career (as the CEO of a Christian PR company) and facts and anecdotes about how the author's favorite billionaires live.
I did not find myself connecting to this book, and I assume it is partially because I do not fit in the book's target demographic (I am not a business-oriented Christian man lmao). It might be debatable if this is the responsibility of the author at all, but Demoss did not make an attempt to make his advice relatable to the general public. In fact, it did not feel like this book was written for half of the earth's population- Demoss rarely mentions women at all in this book (I would be thrilled to be wrong, but I kept track, and I do not think he ever referenced a woman as someone whose accomplishments and life were to be emulated). In the notable times he does mention women, it is usually to elevate his own character- his commitment to family life and to treating his employees (remember, CEO) well.
I was feeling mostly indifferent about this book until Chapter 19: The Best Defense... Is A Good Defense (Why I Won't Ride Alone with Another Woman). The central piece of advice Demoss provides here is, at its core- don't put yourself in situations where you can be accused of wrongdoing. Besides the obvious issues with this idea (no focus on simply being a better, less misogynistic person; all focus on avoiding being caught), the example he uses is that of his personal friend, Millard Fullner, former president of Habitat for Humanity. In this book, Demoss tells the story of how Fullner was accused of inappropriate conduct by a female staff member, strongly implying this was due to him being alone in a car with her one day on the way to the airport. He then states that he believes Fullner was wrongly accused, and goes on to sing his praises for several pages. This section ends with Demoss stating "If I am ever so accused, I want to have operated in such a way that a host of friends and colleagues would rush to center stage to say, 'She's lying! He would never work alone with a woman behind closed doors. I've never seen it happen-- not once.' ".
What Demoss fails to mention (not even after re-publishing) is that this was not an isolated incident- this "special friend of (his)" was accused of sexual harassment and misconduct by multiple staff members. Through this omission, and through the way this "advice" is delivered, Demoss demonstrates a blatant dismissal and disrespect for the victims in this case. I cannot imagine what possessed him to publish this- and to not even remove it after it was re-published in 2011. This chapter turned my feelings of indifference and amusement towards this book to those of anger and disgust. I cannot recommend this book to anyone in good conscience.
(Read for November 2025 24-hour read-a-thon)
I received this book as a graduation present (many years ago lmao). This year has brought some major life changes and stressors, so I was excited to finally crack this book open and garner some inspiration from it. What I discovered was mainly a handful of pieces of good advice overpowered by self-aggrandizing stories from the author's career (as the CEO of a Christian PR company) and facts and anecdotes about how the author's favorite billionaires live.
I did not find myself connecting to this book, and I assume it is partially because I do not fit in the book's target demographic (I am not a business-oriented Christian man lmao). It might be debatable if this is the responsibility of the author at all, but Demoss did not make an attempt to make his advice relatable to the general public. In fact, it did not feel like this book was written for half of the earth's population- Demoss rarely mentions women at all in this book (I would be thrilled to be wrong, but I kept track, and I do not think he ever referenced a woman as someone whose accomplishments and life were to be emulated). In the notable times he does mention women, it is usually to elevate his own character- his commitment to family life and to treating his employees (remember, CEO) well.
I was feeling mostly indifferent about this book until Chapter 19: The Best Defense... Is A Good Defense (Why I Won't Ride Alone with Another Woman). The central piece of advice Demoss provides here is, at its core- don't put yourself in situations where you can be accused of wrongdoing. Besides the obvious issues with this idea (no focus on simply being a better, less misogynistic person; all focus on avoiding being caught), the example he uses is that of his personal friend, Millard Fullner, former president of Habitat for Humanity. In this book, Demoss tells the story of how Fullner was accused of inappropriate conduct by a female staff member, strongly implying this was due to him being alone in a car with her one day on the way to the airport. He then states that he believes Fullner was wrongly accused, and goes on to sing his praises for several pages. This section ends with Demoss stating "If I am ever so accused, I want to have operated in such a way that a host of friends and colleagues would rush to center stage to say, 'She's lying! He would never work alone with a woman behind closed doors. I've never seen it happen-- not once.' ".
What Demoss fails to mention (not even after re-publishing) is that this was not an isolated incident- this "special friend of (his)" was accused of sexual harassment and misconduct by multiple staff members. Through this omission, and through the way this "advice" is delivered, Demoss demonstrates a blatant dismissal and disrespect for the victims in this case. I cannot imagine what possessed him to publish this- and to not even remove it after it was re-published in 2011. This chapter turned my feelings of indifference and amusement towards this book to those of anger and disgust. I cannot recommend this book to anyone in good conscience.
(Read for November 2025 24-hour read-a-thon)
December 14, 2021
This book was gifted from my mom, so of course I was compelled to read it all the way through. I have learned to love the act of reading, even if I don’t enjoy the writing in front of me. It was this love that propelled my reading of this book more than the content itself. While I appreciate the ideas in this book, and dont doubt Demoss’s expertise and success, this collection amounted to little more than helpful and insightful platitudes.
September 9, 2025
Lots of leadership info and stories, along with a good mix of personal values. I knew most of them, but others that may not know these basics would yield more wisdom than I did.
January 5, 2010
Demoss got it wrong. It should have been called "The Red Book of Little Wisdom." His words contain a few valid, well thought points, and I tried my best to focus on those insights. The rest of the text is filled with name dropping, tee-totaling, self congratulatory, money flaunting, blind-sighted, ignoramic babble.
Admittedly, DeMoss was well intentioned and I feel a majority of the aforementioned flaws stem from a lack of self awareness rather than an egomaniacal view point. But that doesn't stop me from shaking my head and murmuring, "You just don't get it, do you?"
Admittedly, DeMoss was well intentioned and I feel a majority of the aforementioned flaws stem from a lack of self awareness rather than an egomaniacal view point. But that doesn't stop me from shaking my head and murmuring, "You just don't get it, do you?"
October 31, 2011
This is an excellent book to learn practical wisdom from a Godly man. The book is written from a Biblical Worldview. I highly recommend this book.
July 13, 2013
Lots of good Christian tips here. Nothing brand new but good reminders.
October 6, 2025
Excellent book. 4.9 stars.
It’s definitely one of those books every young person should read.
I found of the wisdom in this book so sound and timeless, with pointers for success and righteousness in the workplace, home life, and even the wisdom of accepting the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is good if you are new to biblical wisdom and good if you are not; I found it very convicting and helpful.
I had a few theological disagreements with DeMoss, mostly about a source he quoted and his stance on drinking alcohol in the Bible. He seems to hold that the Bible itself does not completely condemn drinking. He did, however, condemn drinking alcohol from a practical standpoint, and centered his argument against alcohol purely based on science and anecdotal data. Which, of course, I totally agree with.
But other than that, I totally can recommend this book.
It’s definitely one of those books every young person should read.
I found of the wisdom in this book so sound and timeless, with pointers for success and righteousness in the workplace, home life, and even the wisdom of accepting the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is good if you are new to biblical wisdom and good if you are not; I found it very convicting and helpful.
I had a few theological disagreements with DeMoss, mostly about a source he quoted and his stance on drinking alcohol in the Bible. He seems to hold that the Bible itself does not completely condemn drinking. He did, however, condemn drinking alcohol from a practical standpoint, and centered his argument against alcohol purely based on science and anecdotal data. Which, of course, I totally agree with.
But other than that, I totally can recommend this book.
August 11, 2017
I truly enjoyed this book. Books with advice are not always my thing. Authors can be pushy and make you feel like an idiot. The opposite was the case with this book. I thought it was well laid out, the author used his own opinions and the words and wisdom of many other people to back his advice. I liked that he spoke about God but didn't shove Him down your throat. I felt like anyone who picked this book up would be comfortable with the way it read.
January 5, 2020
This was a great little book. It is divided into 2 parts. The first 1/2 of the book is wisdom related to the business world. The chapter about staying under your umbrella is great. I will leave it to you to figure out what that means. I don't want to add any spoiler alerts here. The 2nd 1/2 of the book has to do with personal wisdom. A very practical book about day to day life. Easy read. Very enjoyable.
May 18, 2018
I WILL READ IT AGAIN
I love the topic of wisdom because as the Bible states there is nothing more valuable. I come away with the sense that I have gained a certain level of wisdom and now have the desire to pursue it even more. Practical advice that a person can relate too. Would love to have my grown children read this book.
I love the topic of wisdom because as the Bible states there is nothing more valuable. I come away with the sense that I have gained a certain level of wisdom and now have the desire to pursue it even more. Practical advice that a person can relate too. Would love to have my grown children read this book.
July 15, 2025
Has a lot of points in here but I personally felt it was surface-level. I also felt there was way too much religious elements. Had to put it down and was not able to mustard the courage to finish. Giving it 2 stars because I believe this could sit well with some people who are more connected to religion.
June 10, 2017
Insightful and provocative
Mark DeMoss gives practical advice with personal reflection on living a life of integrity and character. This is truly a personal story of heartbreak, business protocol for success, and faith.
Mark DeMoss gives practical advice with personal reflection on living a life of integrity and character. This is truly a personal story of heartbreak, business protocol for success, and faith.
June 24, 2017
Enjoyed taking my time reading this book and seeing the author draw connections back to the Bible, specifically proverbs.
There are some great life lessons in this book that I have already begun to implement in my life.
I recommend you read this.
There are some great life lessons in this book that I have already begun to implement in my life.
I recommend you read this.
September 1, 2018
Too little wisdom coming from a wisdom book
I consider there should have been more insights from different subjects and less simple common life examples. Furthermore, at some point i felt that the book is contains too many quotes and has too few ideas.
I consider there should have been more insights from different subjects and less simple common life examples. Furthermore, at some point i felt that the book is contains too many quotes and has too few ideas.
April 7, 2020
Unimpressed with the book overall. Disagree with the author on several key points. The other very good points he makes are better illustrated elsewhere. Used to own a copy of this, getting rid of it..
August 12, 2020
Thank you
Thank you Mark for reminding me through this Little Red Book the principles God outlined in His word are true even today and there's no price that could ever buy integrity or peace of mind no matter how wealthy you are.
Thank you Mark for reminding me through this Little Red Book the principles God outlined in His word are true even today and there's no price that could ever buy integrity or peace of mind no matter how wealthy you are.
January 30, 2022
A BOOK THAT I SHOULD MAKE IT A POINT TO READ EVERY SO OFTEN. REMINDS ME OF THE PRINCIPLES THAT I SHOULD LIVE MY LIFE BY THAT MANY TIMES GETS LOST IN THE SHUFFLE OF DOING LIFE AND FAMILY. A GOOD AND POSITIVE CHRISTIAN BOOK.
October 10, 2023
I very much enjoyed this book and I am hoping my son will read the copy I sent him. Well presented advice with good stories and examples. Great gift for a new high school or college graduate or a new parent. This is one to read a chapter a day to absorb and think through each chapter’s message.
September 17, 2017
A little gem of a book. Great reading. I will reflect in the wisdom. First thing I do is to start reading the Proverb every day.
November 17, 2017
Excellent-will be reading over and over so that the words sink into my soul.
October 17, 2020
Good story teller. Covers a variety of good advice!
May 8, 2021
I think everyone needs to read this book at least once! I plan on purchasing several and giving them as gifts. Well done!!
July 8, 2021
Succinct book of advice that is packed with nuggets of wisdom without being dense
April 16, 2023
Great little book with solid principles you probably heard from a parent or grandparent but need to hear again every once in a while.
June 7, 2023
One of the best books I have read this year. Easy reading, simple wisdom with underlying biblical truths woven through it.
June 18, 2024
Bits of wisdom, small chapter by chapter. Read again
December 15, 2025
Read your Jacob at breakfast before he went to work or school. Great insights. I rated 5* Jacob rated 3*...krb 12/15/25
March 2, 2017
Great information, reminders, and examples from authors life! Has some good points about standing up for your beliefs in your business.
January 25, 2013
I have mixed feelings about suggesting this book to others. Mark DeMoss did a great job telling his story. Some of his stories seemed dry to me and didn't drive me to read more. There are other chapters that I read that fit perfect into what was happening in my life and I would definitely share that info with others.
"The Little Red Book of Wisdom offers time-tested principles for professional and personal fulfillment.
Mark DeMoss gathers insights for living wisely from history, Scripture, and a lifetime of listening. The result is a handy, accessible book that gives readers a new way to enjoy lasting success in the work world and beyond. Topics include finding and keeping your focus in life, building a winning corporate culture, and setting aside time for good thinking."
Seeing this as the book jacket information sparked my curiosity.
There were some really good nuggets throughout the book. It wasn't the most inspiring or motivating book that I had ever read. It was a little dry for my tastes.
I did grab some nuggets to share and if these spark you, please read the book and enjoy.
"Focus is the discipline to say no to anything off mission - and that is true freedom."
"...the American pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps myth, which in my estimation is a realistic as a turtle on a fence claiming to be self-perched."
"Nothing ever becomes real until it is experienced. Even a proverb is no proverb to you till your life has illustrated it."
"...a mind and character cannot be left to chance."
Enjoy reading. I am off to find my next book.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
"The Little Red Book of Wisdom offers time-tested principles for professional and personal fulfillment.
Mark DeMoss gathers insights for living wisely from history, Scripture, and a lifetime of listening. The result is a handy, accessible book that gives readers a new way to enjoy lasting success in the work world and beyond. Topics include finding and keeping your focus in life, building a winning corporate culture, and setting aside time for good thinking."
Seeing this as the book jacket information sparked my curiosity.
There were some really good nuggets throughout the book. It wasn't the most inspiring or motivating book that I had ever read. It was a little dry for my tastes.
I did grab some nuggets to share and if these spark you, please read the book and enjoy.
"Focus is the discipline to say no to anything off mission - and that is true freedom."
"...the American pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps myth, which in my estimation is a realistic as a turtle on a fence claiming to be self-perched."
"Nothing ever becomes real until it is experienced. Even a proverb is no proverb to you till your life has illustrated it."
"...a mind and character cannot be left to chance."
Enjoy reading. I am off to find my next book.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
September 3, 2011
Everything about the book, The Little Red Book of Wisdom, drew me in ... the size, the feel, the binding, the font on the cover, and the title itself. Once I opened it, and began reading, it was hard to put it down.
Mark DeMoss wrote this book to thank his father for teaching him so much wisdom and to pass on to his children the wisdom gained from his father, from life experience and from the Bible. You might wonder, "Who is he and what qualifies him to write about wisdom?" DeMoss himself addresses that question, and his answer is a humble one.
The Hebrew word for wisdom means "skill for living." DeMoss divides his book into two areas (professional life and personal life), sharing wisdom in 11-12 topics in each area, covering such topics as understanding the brevity of life, finding focus, showing appreciation, learning from those who are ahead of us in life, and more.
The book is quick moving, but deep, and illustrated with interesting stories. Best of all, DeMoss inspires the reader that anyone can seek wisdom, by starting with a small step.
"Knowledge has right answers; wisdom has right questions." Do you have the right questions about life? This book is a good place to start learning some of those questions. I think this would make a great gift for a teenager or college student in your life!
I received this book for free from BookSneeze in exchange for my honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews