You Can't Predict a Hero: From War to Wall Street, Leading in Times of Crisis

by Joseph J. Grano, Mark Levine

Many things set Joe Grano apart from the typical corporate leader: his decorated military career, his humble origins, his lack of a formal college education, his meteoric rise. But perhaps the most unique aspect of Grano’s life and career is his ability to deal with crisis. When things are at their worst, Grano is at his best. From Vietnam to 9/11, from the market crash of ’87 to today’s financial crisis, Wall Street legend Joe Grano has been at the front lines of the most defining American crises of the last forty years. Whether leading draftees through combat as a Green Beret in Vietnam, regrouping a team of brokers during the market crash of 1987, or working tirelessly to reopen Wall Street after the attacks on 9/11, Joe has served at the forefront, leading and even inspiring others when things seem at their darkest. Structured around six specific crises he faced in his life and career, You Can’t Predict a Hero tells the unique story of how Grano was able to triumph over challenges both personal and professional.

Audio CD

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Steve Scott · Rating 3 out of 5]

I disagree strongly with the reviewer that claimed this wasn’t a book on leadership. It has some outstanding leadership principles that can be applied at every level of society. I strongly recommend it for that reason.

I also agree with the review that said this was a tribute to a deservedly big ego. It is that. That dropped it a star.

Where I got bogged down was Grano’s financial and investment jargon, which left my head spinning. This is a problem I’ve had with nearly every financial planner and investment counselor I’ve ever met. They assume you know what they’re talking about. That dropped it another star.

A three star review from me doesn’t mean one shouldn’t read a book...but it might be advisable to get it at the library or used and at a lesser price.

[George Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read with some great messages

[Scott Cutaneo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

[Patricia · Rating 1 out of 5]

Read it b/c it was recommended to me as a good book about Leadership. I was disappointed that it was basically an autobiography and offered comment on the "current" times (2009)and what to do about the economic crisis. Sadly I found little to take away from this book to apply to my own life. The only good thing was it was a very quick read so now I can get on to another book.

[Theodore Kinni · Rating 3 out of 5]

A guy with a deservedly large ego offers some good leadership advice.