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Nelson Mandela: Portrait of an Extraordinary Man
Previously published as Mandela's Way
Written by the co-author of international bestseller Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela: Portrait of an Extraordinary Man presents fifteen powerful lessons on life and leadership based on the life and work of Nelson Mandela (1918 - 2013), whose fight against apartheid in South Africa has become an enduring example of resistance against injustice and oppression. A recipient of the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize, Mandela is a man who truly changed the course of world history and is arguably the most inspirational figure of the past century.
Stengel spent almost three years with Mandela working on his bestselling autobiography Long Walk to Freedom, and through that process became a close friend. Written with the blessing of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, to which the author will donate a percentage of his royalties, Nelson Mandela: Portrait of an Extraordinary Man is an inspirational book of wisdom that will encourage people of all ages to look within themselves to improve their lives, to reconsider the things they take for granted, and to think about the legacy they leave behind.
Written by the co-author of international bestseller Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela: Portrait of an Extraordinary Man presents fifteen powerful lessons on life and leadership based on the life and work of Nelson Mandela (1918 - 2013), whose fight against apartheid in South Africa has become an enduring example of resistance against injustice and oppression. A recipient of the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize, Mandela is a man who truly changed the course of world history and is arguably the most inspirational figure of the past century.
Stengel spent almost three years with Mandela working on his bestselling autobiography Long Walk to Freedom, and through that process became a close friend. Written with the blessing of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, to which the author will donate a percentage of his royalties, Nelson Mandela: Portrait of an Extraordinary Man is an inspirational book of wisdom that will encourage people of all ages to look within themselves to improve their lives, to reconsider the things they take for granted, and to think about the legacy they leave behind.
239 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
268 people are currently reading
3017 people want to read
About the author
Richard Stengel
28 books53 followersRichard Stengel is the former editor of TIME. He collaborated with Nelson Mandela on his bestselling 1993 autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, and later served as coproducer of the 1996 Oscar-nominated documentary Mandela. He is also the author of January Sun: One Day, Three Lives, a South African Town. Stengel is married to Mary Pfaff and they have two sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 341 reviews
May 26, 2010
I have great regard for Nelson Mandela and his enormous courage in prison, his lack of rancour towards his tormentors even after 27 years in prison, his great efforts towards reconciliation in South Africa and his pragmatism in embracing market economics even though he was a socialist when he went to the prison. But this book is a big disappointment and is a poor effort. It is just a rehash of some truisms which are inconsistent with the title of the book. It amazes me that accomplished people like Bill Clinton, Greg Mortensen and Deepak Chopra have paid tributes to this book. I wonder if they really read it or if they are just pandering support to the author whom they probably know.
Most of the fifteen lessons are nothing new and in fact, most of us have probably arrived at them by our own experience in life. Some examples are : 'Courage is not the absence of Fear', 'Lead from the front', 'See Good in others' and so on.
But some others are silly as well. For example, 'Look the Part' is one of those lessons. It is about the importance of appearances and managing them - something in which sportspeople and film stars excel much more than Mr. Mandela. In fact, it is an insult to Nelson Mandela to include this as a lesson because his life was all about courage, forgiveness, reconciliation and pragmatism and not such minor things.
One of the lessons - 'Have a core principle' - surprised me because the author says during the discussion of this lesson that Mandela believed in non-violence only as a tactic (when useful) and not as a core principle. Apparently, many others in the ANC believed strongly in non-violence and so Mandela agreed to it as a tactic as otherwise he feared that it could split the ANC. But, underneath, he didn't believe that non-violence can defeat apartheid. This is something I learnt from the book.
Overall, this book is not worth spending time on.
Most of the fifteen lessons are nothing new and in fact, most of us have probably arrived at them by our own experience in life. Some examples are : 'Courage is not the absence of Fear', 'Lead from the front', 'See Good in others' and so on.
But some others are silly as well. For example, 'Look the Part' is one of those lessons. It is about the importance of appearances and managing them - something in which sportspeople and film stars excel much more than Mr. Mandela. In fact, it is an insult to Nelson Mandela to include this as a lesson because his life was all about courage, forgiveness, reconciliation and pragmatism and not such minor things.
One of the lessons - 'Have a core principle' - surprised me because the author says during the discussion of this lesson that Mandela believed in non-violence only as a tactic (when useful) and not as a core principle. Apparently, many others in the ANC believed strongly in non-violence and so Mandela agreed to it as a tactic as otherwise he feared that it could split the ANC. But, underneath, he didn't believe that non-violence can defeat apartheid. This is something I learnt from the book.
Overall, this book is not worth spending time on.
December 6, 2013
I loved this inside look at Mr. Mandela. Mr. Stengel had great access and his book conveys many sides of Mr. Mandela. I recommend this book to every person whom wants to know about him.
February 19, 2015
Interesting and inspiring book whose main characteristic is the fact that the Author had access to Mandela along several years in all sorts of daily situations, so he could get to know the President from a more intimate point of view than is usually depicted. The Author tried to turn what he learned from Mandela into 15 lessons which he considers "Mandela Legacy". The book is well written, varied and hints at the immense human wisdom that Mandela imparted on those who were close enough to him. Each chapter treats a certain subject, for instance, the first is about courage - and we discover that Mandela openly admitted to have been afraid of certain things or situations. He believed that courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the capacity to overcome due to our sheer discipline. Self control, self knowledge and discipline come out as the pillars of this incredible human being, who in spite of his small faults managed to inspire such change and transformation.
Maria Carmo,
Lisbon, 19 February 2015.
Maria Carmo,
Lisbon, 19 February 2015.
October 16, 2010
An inspiring read. The book presents a much more complex man than we might imagine when we see his glowing countenance in photos and on newsreels. He has worked hard to become the person he is, and has used his life experiences to learn from each encounter and challenge. I walked away from the book feeling like Mandela is a pristine mix of the Dalai Lama and Malcolm X - he believes in progress through peaceful means, but he knows that for change to occur, at times one must be boldly assertive.
These fifteen lessons aren't revolutionary - "Courage is not the absence of fear...", "Lead from the Back", etc. - but to have them applied to specific experiences in one man's life - the life of a man who has endured much and come out the other side with such grace - well, it made me admire Mandela all the more, and certainly, his approach to life is one worthy of following in our day to day opportunities.
Richard Stengel spent many months with Mr. Mandela, and that allows him to give us a look a typical outsider wouldn't have had. The stories he shares aren't just of Mandela's prison stint or his leadership in South Africa, they are also about how he interacts with his own children, with those who live nearby, and what he is thinking in his day to day life. Those are the moments that a typical biographer/armchair philosopher could not have captured.
This is not a biography, but a series of glimpses at a man and his personal philosophy on how to make the world a better place, and live a life that matters. I'll take that over a biography any day.
These fifteen lessons aren't revolutionary - "Courage is not the absence of fear...", "Lead from the Back", etc. - but to have them applied to specific experiences in one man's life - the life of a man who has endured much and come out the other side with such grace - well, it made me admire Mandela all the more, and certainly, his approach to life is one worthy of following in our day to day opportunities.
Richard Stengel spent many months with Mr. Mandela, and that allows him to give us a look a typical outsider wouldn't have had. The stories he shares aren't just of Mandela's prison stint or his leadership in South Africa, they are also about how he interacts with his own children, with those who live nearby, and what he is thinking in his day to day life. Those are the moments that a typical biographer/armchair philosopher could not have captured.
This is not a biography, but a series of glimpses at a man and his personal philosophy on how to make the world a better place, and live a life that matters. I'll take that over a biography any day.
February 15, 2017
An interesting, personal and readable portrait of Mandela and his outlook on life. Having the book organised into "15 life lessons" made it very accessible and freed the author to pick out particularly salient points from Mandela's life. (If you're looking for a traditional, chronological biography of Mandela, I would recommend looking for a different book).
March 5, 2015
Marvelous book, amazing personality yet HUMAN not a superman nor any other form of fiction!He is real....
This book talks maily about leadership, self and others leadership, a disciplined leader, focused, a full human being after many years of prison, inside prison and out,...yea he learned it in the hard way , or maybe we are learning in the hard way (those struggling with daily challenges and self boundaries, self prisoners!) Or maybe everyone has his own type of suffering and difficulties but what's important is that we LEARN, otherwise it will all be for nothing...
Does being in control of yourself mean you have no emotions or you are not sensitive?dead inside? Or it just means that you are now in control of those youthful impulses, not that he was no longer stung or hurt or angry...its just maturity and its more of a protective shell one day we will all posss...maybe!
Absolutely one of the best books you will ever read about leadership, he BECAME a leader while life happened to him! I learned so many lessons without so many philisophical talk about leadership and its principles( a live example!) His actions talks to you and then you figure it out, simple, period!
In the book Richard says Nelson was happy, well I don't think so cause he missed one of the most essential things one could posses...FAITH in God! I don't even imagine how those great minds could miss something that great! How can anybody NOT believe in the hereafter?? Do they really see themselves that nothing to just get vanished just ANY MINUTE?! Well that is an other story, but, the most important story mankind should ever know about!
So many lessons I learned from this unhappy, immolated, discplined man that I can not write all down. But truely lessons on life, love and courage. This is a man that you would really want to read about.
This book talks maily about leadership, self and others leadership, a disciplined leader, focused, a full human being after many years of prison, inside prison and out,...yea he learned it in the hard way , or maybe we are learning in the hard way (those struggling with daily challenges and self boundaries, self prisoners!) Or maybe everyone has his own type of suffering and difficulties but what's important is that we LEARN, otherwise it will all be for nothing...
Does being in control of yourself mean you have no emotions or you are not sensitive?dead inside? Or it just means that you are now in control of those youthful impulses, not that he was no longer stung or hurt or angry...its just maturity and its more of a protective shell one day we will all posss...maybe!
Absolutely one of the best books you will ever read about leadership, he BECAME a leader while life happened to him! I learned so many lessons without so many philisophical talk about leadership and its principles( a live example!) His actions talks to you and then you figure it out, simple, period!
In the book Richard says Nelson was happy, well I don't think so cause he missed one of the most essential things one could posses...FAITH in God! I don't even imagine how those great minds could miss something that great! How can anybody NOT believe in the hereafter?? Do they really see themselves that nothing to just get vanished just ANY MINUTE?! Well that is an other story, but, the most important story mankind should ever know about!
So many lessons I learned from this unhappy, immolated, discplined man that I can not write all down. But truely lessons on life, love and courage. This is a man that you would really want to read about.
December 16, 2014
A very interesting and simple read. My only regret is that it reads like a leadership book more than general lessons on life. But it gives a great image of the imperfect but fantastic leader.
It is divided into 15 lessons with examples from personal moments in Mandela's life.
I enjoyed it
It is divided into 15 lessons with examples from personal moments in Mandela's life.
I enjoyed it
May 30, 2020
Insightful look at Mandela as a man and a leader.
April 16, 2025
I really enjoyed this book and it was an easy read. I loved the insight that the author gives in regard to his own personal life and how Nelson Mandela influenced it.
Perhaps some of the lessons were a bit basic (for example, most of us understand that acting too rashly can have negative consequences) but I feel that it’s easy, as we grow older and are swept up in life, to forget some of the key things we’re taught as children.
So in my opinion this is an excellent book.
Here are some of my favourite quotes that I collected.
1. Courage is not the absence of fear, he taught me. It’s learning to overcome it. Fearlessness is stupidity. Courage is not letting the fear defeat you.
One had to put up a front. Sometimes it is only through putting up a brave front that you discover true courage. Sometimes the front is your courage.
2. We think of temperament as something we’re born with. But in Mandela’s case, it was something he formed. Most of the mistakes he has made in life came from acting too hastily rather than too slowly. Don't hurry, he would say; think, analyze, then act.
3. No one is born prejudiced or racist. No man, he suggests, is evil at heart. Evil is something instilled in or taught to men by circumstances, their environment, or their upbringing. It is not innate.
Perhaps some of the lessons were a bit basic (for example, most of us understand that acting too rashly can have negative consequences) but I feel that it’s easy, as we grow older and are swept up in life, to forget some of the key things we’re taught as children.
So in my opinion this is an excellent book.
Here are some of my favourite quotes that I collected.
1. Courage is not the absence of fear, he taught me. It’s learning to overcome it. Fearlessness is stupidity. Courage is not letting the fear defeat you.
One had to put up a front. Sometimes it is only through putting up a brave front that you discover true courage. Sometimes the front is your courage.
2. We think of temperament as something we’re born with. But in Mandela’s case, it was something he formed. Most of the mistakes he has made in life came from acting too hastily rather than too slowly. Don't hurry, he would say; think, analyze, then act.
3. No one is born prejudiced or racist. No man, he suggests, is evil at heart. Evil is something instilled in or taught to men by circumstances, their environment, or their upbringing. It is not innate.
November 25, 2021
A slim book of observed wisdom gleaned from Nelson Mandela, written by biographer and friend Richard Stengel. The book presents some beautiful lessons while sharing snippets and stories from Mandela’s fascinating and varied life experiences.
September 23, 2025
Mandela's advice: 5
The writing: 3
The writing: 3
July 9, 2018
I enjoyed leaning more about this admirable leader, but the way it was told could have been a little better. Overall, a worthwhile read.
April 16, 2017
Nelson Mandela is quite obviously an extraordinary role model and there is much to learn from his life. This book, however, read a bit like a dry college thesis and contained so many "lessons" that even one day after reading it, I'm already forgetting its content.
July 4, 2014
Richard Stengel seems to suggest that being a hypocrite is being worse than a being a contradict - which is what Mandela seems to be in his eyes, for at least being a contradict is human, and being a hypocrite stoops you a level lower because you are perfectly aware of your contradictory actions. For the sake of simplicity I'll write down the 'lessons' that appealed most.
Time and time again we see this value, perhaps told in a different fashion and in a different light; courage. And in the book it is iterated that courage is not the absence of fear but putting up a front of valour even though you're (rhetorically) wetting your pants. Also along this vein, Mandela who is conscious about first impressions, is very particular when it comes to 'looking the part'. Trying to reconcile with the sentiments of a leader, it would be shallow to judge someone on first impression, but the harsh reality is that everyone does it, and that first few seconds imprints the image of the man in one's mind and last almost indefinitely. With that in mind, Mandela justifies splurging on fancy clothes and putting up a courageous front when meeting with important people.
I also found that while Mandela endorses 'Seeing the Good in Others' and is like a personal mantra to enrich one's view in life, realistically, it only gets yourself hurt when you're too trusting in someone else that you do not see their hidden agenda. Mandela also admits to have been betrayed but never ceasing to see the good in others.
As the old saying goes, 'Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer'. Mandela adheres to this almost strictly, except with a slight tweak - he keeps enemies close (one example is when he placed a member of the opposition in the cabinet so he can have close tabs on him) but at the cost of unwaveringly distancing himself from friends and family (due to the course of his work, he would justify). It would also seem that Mandela is down with using others as tools to reach his goal (while the goal of a better nation is noble, the means where he admits using others to reach the goal begs the question of morality), namely using people like de Clerk and speaking Afrikaans to gain the support from the other side.
I found the chapters of 'Lead from the Front' and 'Lead from the Back' almost identical, save for slight change in wordings - essentially advocating to know when to be at the front to lead and knowing when to step back and watch seeds of leadership come to fruition.
Mandela was a fan of gray areas - for a yes-or-no question, more often than not, he'll reply with a 'maybe', 'it's both' or something to that effect. Mandela appreciates that the two extremes are certain, but at times can be too harsh, and prefers to accept that for most problems, there is always a bit of both.
The final lesson is called 'Find Your Own Garden', and to Mandela, it was taken quite literally. While imprisoned, after months of protocol, he finally managed to have a plot of land by his cell to plant vegetables (mainly to supplement his and the diet of other prisoners with veggies together with the cornmeal and occasional slab of meat they would have). Tending to his garden while in prison also gave him a lot of time to think and strategize where he claims to have found peace. While not all of us have spare soil for gardening, he urges people to find things they really love most and indulge in it, at least for a moment in a day to escape from the harsh reality of the world. One may argue that this move is no different than running away from one's problems but who's to judge?
All-in-all a mediocre book which gave insights to what Mandela is like from the perspective of Richard Stengel while dipping one's toes into the realm of African politics.
Time and time again we see this value, perhaps told in a different fashion and in a different light; courage. And in the book it is iterated that courage is not the absence of fear but putting up a front of valour even though you're (rhetorically) wetting your pants. Also along this vein, Mandela who is conscious about first impressions, is very particular when it comes to 'looking the part'. Trying to reconcile with the sentiments of a leader, it would be shallow to judge someone on first impression, but the harsh reality is that everyone does it, and that first few seconds imprints the image of the man in one's mind and last almost indefinitely. With that in mind, Mandela justifies splurging on fancy clothes and putting up a courageous front when meeting with important people.
I also found that while Mandela endorses 'Seeing the Good in Others' and is like a personal mantra to enrich one's view in life, realistically, it only gets yourself hurt when you're too trusting in someone else that you do not see their hidden agenda. Mandela also admits to have been betrayed but never ceasing to see the good in others.
As the old saying goes, 'Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer'. Mandela adheres to this almost strictly, except with a slight tweak - he keeps enemies close (one example is when he placed a member of the opposition in the cabinet so he can have close tabs on him) but at the cost of unwaveringly distancing himself from friends and family (due to the course of his work, he would justify). It would also seem that Mandela is down with using others as tools to reach his goal (while the goal of a better nation is noble, the means where he admits using others to reach the goal begs the question of morality), namely using people like de Clerk and speaking Afrikaans to gain the support from the other side.
I found the chapters of 'Lead from the Front' and 'Lead from the Back' almost identical, save for slight change in wordings - essentially advocating to know when to be at the front to lead and knowing when to step back and watch seeds of leadership come to fruition.
Mandela was a fan of gray areas - for a yes-or-no question, more often than not, he'll reply with a 'maybe', 'it's both' or something to that effect. Mandela appreciates that the two extremes are certain, but at times can be too harsh, and prefers to accept that for most problems, there is always a bit of both.
The final lesson is called 'Find Your Own Garden', and to Mandela, it was taken quite literally. While imprisoned, after months of protocol, he finally managed to have a plot of land by his cell to plant vegetables (mainly to supplement his and the diet of other prisoners with veggies together with the cornmeal and occasional slab of meat they would have). Tending to his garden while in prison also gave him a lot of time to think and strategize where he claims to have found peace. While not all of us have spare soil for gardening, he urges people to find things they really love most and indulge in it, at least for a moment in a day to escape from the harsh reality of the world. One may argue that this move is no different than running away from one's problems but who's to judge?
All-in-all a mediocre book which gave insights to what Mandela is like from the perspective of Richard Stengel while dipping one's toes into the realm of African politics.
May 4, 2014
It seems like in general many people really like this book, or they like the content but not the writing. Personally I felt the writer did a fine job presenting his view of life lessons that we can learn from Mandela through interpretations of several scenes of Mandela’s life, and other narrations by Mandela himself. Apparently Richard Branson, Bill Clinton, and many others thought Stengel did a good job as well.
I appreciated learning more about Mandela and from the perspective of someone who spent so many intimate hours with him. Stengel didn’t just help Mandela write his autobiography, but he became such a close personal friend that Mandela even became Stengels’ son’s godfather.
I loved the anecdotal stories and the glimpses of the man that were presented. The principles discussed aren’t really new or anything, but rather than seeing this as a book that redefines our idea of greatness, or anything like that, I consider it a good book on the shelf that contributes to the large body of work that direct us towards how to be a good man under pressure, and how to bring about change for good wherever and in whatever our circumstances we are in. We need more people like Mandela in the world willing to forgive and to use love and kindness to bring about needed change!
I appreciated learning more about Mandela and from the perspective of someone who spent so many intimate hours with him. Stengel didn’t just help Mandela write his autobiography, but he became such a close personal friend that Mandela even became Stengels’ son’s godfather.
I loved the anecdotal stories and the glimpses of the man that were presented. The principles discussed aren’t really new or anything, but rather than seeing this as a book that redefines our idea of greatness, or anything like that, I consider it a good book on the shelf that contributes to the large body of work that direct us towards how to be a good man under pressure, and how to bring about change for good wherever and in whatever our circumstances we are in. We need more people like Mandela in the world willing to forgive and to use love and kindness to bring about needed change!
March 31, 2014
What a great book. Seriously I just got swept up in this book. I was really impressed by this book, I guess more importantly I was enlightened by Mandela. I mean I knew bits & pieces of his life but reading about it in detail just made me admire him even more. The amount of struggles & hurdles he overcame is simply amazing. Not only that but how he approached everything w/ such a non-hateful demeanor. For someone who spent so much time in prison he still had this unbelievable compassion about him & his outlook of others. I can't imagine what it was like being in his presence & experiencing things the way he did. I think there is so much more he could've contributed to the world not just his country of South Africa, but he still fought for what he believed in for decades which is totally commendable. who knows what the state of South Africa would be had he not been such a huge influence.
September 24, 2013
In this book, there are 15 lessons on life, love, and courage, Mandela’s way. Each chapter is a lesson in itself captivating the reader, through practical illustrations. As a prominent figure worldwide, many authors have written about his life. As his health deteriorates, however, he continues to be a very influential man in South Africa and is admired around the world.
Author Richard Stengel personally interviewed and observed Mandela for a period of time prior to writing this book. From his interviews and observations, he portrays a very powerful yet simple man.
The lessons I’ve learned from Mandela’s life have definitely influenced me. Not only will they help me succeed in life, but become a better leader.
I would recommend this book to leaders and those who enjoy reading biographies.
Author Richard Stengel personally interviewed and observed Mandela for a period of time prior to writing this book. From his interviews and observations, he portrays a very powerful yet simple man.
The lessons I’ve learned from Mandela’s life have definitely influenced me. Not only will they help me succeed in life, but become a better leader.
I would recommend this book to leaders and those who enjoy reading biographies.
March 17, 2016
E prima carte de gen biografic pe care o citesc si am pareri controvesate in privinta acestui tip de literatura. E o bogata sursa de informatii istorice si poate fi utila, mai ales celor care nu prefera istoria ca materie, cum sunt si eu :) Dar poti afla date importante, evenimente marcante anume prin actiunile unor oameni, precum si faptele savarsite de Mandela.
Eroul cartii trezeste emotii opuse: admiratie, respingere, aprobare, intrebari despre anumite trasaturi si decizii, dar din lectiile de viata a lui Mandela, cu singuranta sunt idei de preluat sau de confirmat, daca le detineati pana la lectura.
Plus la toate, imi pare ca trebuie sa-ti trezeasca un interes enorm sau sa-ti placa mult personajul dintr-o astfel de lectura. Pentru mine a fost un experiment, dar nu cred ca-l repet pana nu dau de cineva mai interesant pentru mine.
Eroul cartii trezeste emotii opuse: admiratie, respingere, aprobare, intrebari despre anumite trasaturi si decizii, dar din lectiile de viata a lui Mandela, cu singuranta sunt idei de preluat sau de confirmat, daca le detineati pana la lectura.
Plus la toate, imi pare ca trebuie sa-ti trezeasca un interes enorm sau sa-ti placa mult personajul dintr-o astfel de lectura. Pentru mine a fost un experiment, dar nu cred ca-l repet pana nu dau de cineva mai interesant pentru mine.
January 31, 2015
Richard Stengel's Mandelas's Way is a love sonnet to Nelson Mandela, filled with praise and uncanny insight. It is written in a style that is light but highly expressive. Part of me wishes that Stengel was more distant to his subject so that a more "clearer" image of Mandela could be seen. It is a great book but I sense that it's author is so blinded by love that he can barely see fault with Nelson. I feel moved by the advice and wisdom peppered throughout the books pages, it inspires it's reader to extend their mind, their outlook, I however look forward to reading more on the subject of Mandela and gaining a more balanced understanding of his legacy and personality.
July 28, 2023
بیشتر از اینکه "زندگی نامه" ماندلا باشه، کتابی در باب ستایش ماندلا بود. سبک تاریخی و خشک و تا حدودی بی طرف جالب تره! ولی چقده من سیاهپوست هارو دوست می دارم 🖤.
+ ماندلا رهبر موفقی بود، خیلی آروم با سخنرانی های کسالت آور. هیتلر رهبر موفقی بود، یک سخنران حرفه ای ک مردم کاملا به تهییج میومدن. پس باید فلان ویژگی را داشته باشی تا به فلان جایگاه برسی، مهمل عه!
+ "او متوجه شد که همه نمی توانند نلسون ماندلا باشند؛ زندان او را آبدیده کرد اما خیلی های دیگر را از بین برد. او هرگز کسی را به خاطر این موضوع ملامت نکرد. تسلیم شدن، عملی کاملا انسانی بود."
+ ماندلا رهبر موفقی بود، خیلی آروم با سخنرانی های کسالت آور. هیتلر رهبر موفقی بود، یک سخنران حرفه ای ک مردم کاملا به تهییج میومدن. پس باید فلان ویژگی را داشته باشی تا به فلان جایگاه برسی، مهمل عه!
+ "او متوجه شد که همه نمی توانند نلسون ماندلا باشند؛ زندان او را آبدیده کرد اما خیلی های دیگر را از بین برد. او هرگز کسی را به خاطر این موضوع ملامت نکرد. تسلیم شدن، عملی کاملا انسانی بود."
August 26, 2013
Closest thing to a living saint. I turned 44 earlier this month, and it is heartening to think that is the same age that Nelson Mandela went into prison, not to emerge until he was 71. I listened to is on my commute and I like the blending of philosophy and story-telling. Short audio, worth the time.
January 20, 2016
An inspirational synthesis of Nelson Mandela's amazing approach to life.
May 30, 2015
I did not love it I did not hate it. It was interesting to read about Mandela's life and the lessons he wanted to share, though.
March 19, 2019
Nelson Mandela told the author: "You must find your own garden." Of the life the lessons Mandela left us, I think this one statement--if read metaphorically--personifies how Mandela came to be the great and dependable leader he was. Finding his own way made Mandela courageous but also allowed him to achieve the role of leader in the ANC and later the democratic republic of South Afrika.
I have always been fascinated by a number of aspects of Mandela's life--his youth learning tribal ways of the Xhosa, his days boxing and playing rugby, his career as a lawyer, his leadership of the ANC's military wing which was not a showpiece but an armed force prepared to war over the civil rights of South Afrika's black population. But what really has stuck with me was the nearly 3 decades he spent on Robbens Island where he learned Afrikkans because he understood that through language one comes to see to the heart of the culture--its politics, its historic heritage, its business ways, even its sports culture.
Mandela has been lionized in many ways but never enough, I think, for his willingness to overlook the personal transgressions heaped upon him over the years before he became President of S.A. and to actively promote a unified South Africa, a white and black South Africa which required him to defy his colleagues and supporters in the ANC. Even the act of giving public and prolonged support for the Springboks in the World Cup drew blistering criticism from S.A.'s black leaders who considered Mandela a deserter of the cause. In his heart, though, Mandela knew that there are different leaders for different purposes which requires a deep understanding of oneself and one's environment in order to transform into that leader required for the success of the moment.
Reading this brief but instructive book about Mandela's character and its traits, I am struck by the similarities between Mandela and Barack Obama, who almost to a tee seems to have adopted Mandela's persona in so many ways. Both were the first for their nations, leading a people through the gates. Both left office under criticism but with great respect--especially in light of what came after in both countries--but with so much left undone.
I have always been fascinated by a number of aspects of Mandela's life--his youth learning tribal ways of the Xhosa, his days boxing and playing rugby, his career as a lawyer, his leadership of the ANC's military wing which was not a showpiece but an armed force prepared to war over the civil rights of South Afrika's black population. But what really has stuck with me was the nearly 3 decades he spent on Robbens Island where he learned Afrikkans because he understood that through language one comes to see to the heart of the culture--its politics, its historic heritage, its business ways, even its sports culture.
Mandela has been lionized in many ways but never enough, I think, for his willingness to overlook the personal transgressions heaped upon him over the years before he became President of S.A. and to actively promote a unified South Africa, a white and black South Africa which required him to defy his colleagues and supporters in the ANC. Even the act of giving public and prolonged support for the Springboks in the World Cup drew blistering criticism from S.A.'s black leaders who considered Mandela a deserter of the cause. In his heart, though, Mandela knew that there are different leaders for different purposes which requires a deep understanding of oneself and one's environment in order to transform into that leader required for the success of the moment.
Reading this brief but instructive book about Mandela's character and its traits, I am struck by the similarities between Mandela and Barack Obama, who almost to a tee seems to have adopted Mandela's persona in so many ways. Both were the first for their nations, leading a people through the gates. Both left office under criticism but with great respect--especially in light of what came after in both countries--but with so much left undone.
August 24, 2019
I had the impulse of buying this book, especially because of the movie ”Invictus”, that successfully created for me an image of a very wise leader, Nelson Mandela. The book is way better than the movie, was a valid conclusion in this case too.
More than a biography, which I expected it to be anyway, more than the direct experience of the author with this man, I was surprised to find here an impressive collection of leadership, management and lifestyle lessons. His story is both sad and full of hope and it is impossible not to be impressed by it. The story that moved me most was the one in which he remembered the prison wardens, the way in which he found the right approach in communicating with them and how, as Dalai Lama did with the Chinese governors, he forgave them.
On the other hand, this book is the first one that truly made me reflect on the way I look at things: black or white, good or bad, nothing in between. At least untill now, my life has been like a fairy tale, with these notions clearly established and easily determined. I was lucky.
Mandela himself evolved from this harsh vision he had in his youth, to an understanding, in time, of all the gray nuances. It is this understanding that allowed him to forgive, it changed his behaviour, it brought him an internal peace and also empowered him to get over his pride in his fight for the ideals he believed in. He succeeded in something only a true leader can: seeing humans, not nations, imperfect human beings, not enemies and lack of empathy, not bad intentions.
Another thing that delighted me was the manner in which it was really obvious the impression Mandela had left upon the author. In every phrase you can feel the admiration, honor and respect that he felt writing the book. All of it makes you feel… a little more humble. It shows how little you know about life yet.
More than a biography, which I expected it to be anyway, more than the direct experience of the author with this man, I was surprised to find here an impressive collection of leadership, management and lifestyle lessons. His story is both sad and full of hope and it is impossible not to be impressed by it. The story that moved me most was the one in which he remembered the prison wardens, the way in which he found the right approach in communicating with them and how, as Dalai Lama did with the Chinese governors, he forgave them.
On the other hand, this book is the first one that truly made me reflect on the way I look at things: black or white, good or bad, nothing in between. At least untill now, my life has been like a fairy tale, with these notions clearly established and easily determined. I was lucky.
Mandela himself evolved from this harsh vision he had in his youth, to an understanding, in time, of all the gray nuances. It is this understanding that allowed him to forgive, it changed his behaviour, it brought him an internal peace and also empowered him to get over his pride in his fight for the ideals he believed in. He succeeded in something only a true leader can: seeing humans, not nations, imperfect human beings, not enemies and lack of empathy, not bad intentions.
Another thing that delighted me was the manner in which it was really obvious the impression Mandela had left upon the author. In every phrase you can feel the admiration, honor and respect that he felt writing the book. All of it makes you feel… a little more humble. It shows how little you know about life yet.
January 22, 2023
Impressive, honest and deeply moving!
Nelson Mandela fascinated me since I perceived him the first time. At first sight maybe unremarkable his great aura and the wisdom in his eyes made a deep imression on me and he got a sustainable place in my heart and my soul. I was looking for an portrait of this man which is as honest as credible and found this one. Richard Stengel has spent a lot of time to Nelson Mandela, in confindential conversations within nearly three years he was able to get an deep insight in this modern hero. In this book he presents 15 essential life lessons.
„He moves us because he is the modern-day example of the archetypal hero, the man who is plucked out of nowhere, takes on an monumentous challenge, suffers great trials and tragedy and almost fails, and then is ressurected and achieves harmony.“
Mandela‘s deep insight that life takes place between two poles – nothing and nobody is only good or only bad - and you have to overlook and overthink whole correlations to judge something or somebody and to take a decision. Without being naive he believed in the good side of humans, even in people who treated him badly. In every character or situation he found positive details which have deeply established. For example: One of his prisons he liked so much he aksed for a floor plan and built a house for himself in the same way.
Mandela never lost his sensivity, he protected it under a shell. In acting like he wanted to be and what is primarily important to the community „he became who he wanted to be“. Everything and everybody is linked: the individual with the community and one situation with many others.
„He almost always saw both sides of every issue, and his default position was to find some course between, some way of reconciling both sides.“
CONCLUSION: This is a book for a special place to reread extracts as often as possible!
Nelson Mandela fascinated me since I perceived him the first time. At first sight maybe unremarkable his great aura and the wisdom in his eyes made a deep imression on me and he got a sustainable place in my heart and my soul. I was looking for an portrait of this man which is as honest as credible and found this one. Richard Stengel has spent a lot of time to Nelson Mandela, in confindential conversations within nearly three years he was able to get an deep insight in this modern hero. In this book he presents 15 essential life lessons.
„He moves us because he is the modern-day example of the archetypal hero, the man who is plucked out of nowhere, takes on an monumentous challenge, suffers great trials and tragedy and almost fails, and then is ressurected and achieves harmony.“
Mandela‘s deep insight that life takes place between two poles – nothing and nobody is only good or only bad - and you have to overlook and overthink whole correlations to judge something or somebody and to take a decision. Without being naive he believed in the good side of humans, even in people who treated him badly. In every character or situation he found positive details which have deeply established. For example: One of his prisons he liked so much he aksed for a floor plan and built a house for himself in the same way.
Mandela never lost his sensivity, he protected it under a shell. In acting like he wanted to be and what is primarily important to the community „he became who he wanted to be“. Everything and everybody is linked: the individual with the community and one situation with many others.
„He almost always saw both sides of every issue, and his default position was to find some course between, some way of reconciling both sides.“
CONCLUSION: This is a book for a special place to reread extracts as often as possible!
June 16, 2024
We got a copy soon after this was first published. I read it, then put it on a shelf. I found it the other day. All I could remember of it was that Nelson Mandela had a garden when he was in prison. That was it.
This is not exactly a book that sticks with you.
So, I reread it. I can't get to the library any more because gas is so expensive. I'm glad I'm doing a review now, more than ten years after this was published. It helps to put some perspective on it.
Stengal was in love with Mandela. That's pretty obvious. The praise gets embarrassing at times, such as when he compares Mandela to Moses, Buddha, Mohammed and Jesus. However, he does describe some of Mandela's mistakes and flaws. Mandela was a lousey tipper, for example.
Since the time since this written, the public's love of Mandela has lessened considerably. He was ultimately ineffectual as a leader. Then newly-elected President Barack Obama is described as being similar to Mandela. This turned out true, since Obama wound up being an impotent president. South Africa is a mess. Many South Africans, black and white, can't stand Mandela.
The fifteen life lessons are impractical for the average person to apply to his or her life. For example, one lesson is "lead from the back." Mandela herded cattle as a child. You have to go behind cattle to drive them. So, this lesson is great for moving livestock, but not much else.
Where the book shines is describing not only Mandela's life, but the life of the author. Stengal can certainly string words together nicely. I have not read his full biography of Mandela's life, so I do not know how much the books overlap.
The preface by Mandela is a very short paragraph. The recommendation by Deepak Chopra is embarrassing on hindsight, considering what a jerk Chopra would turn out to be.
This is not exactly a book that sticks with you.
So, I reread it. I can't get to the library any more because gas is so expensive. I'm glad I'm doing a review now, more than ten years after this was published. It helps to put some perspective on it.
Stengal was in love with Mandela. That's pretty obvious. The praise gets embarrassing at times, such as when he compares Mandela to Moses, Buddha, Mohammed and Jesus. However, he does describe some of Mandela's mistakes and flaws. Mandela was a lousey tipper, for example.
Since the time since this written, the public's love of Mandela has lessened considerably. He was ultimately ineffectual as a leader. Then newly-elected President Barack Obama is described as being similar to Mandela. This turned out true, since Obama wound up being an impotent president. South Africa is a mess. Many South Africans, black and white, can't stand Mandela.
The fifteen life lessons are impractical for the average person to apply to his or her life. For example, one lesson is "lead from the back." Mandela herded cattle as a child. You have to go behind cattle to drive them. So, this lesson is great for moving livestock, but not much else.
Where the book shines is describing not only Mandela's life, but the life of the author. Stengal can certainly string words together nicely. I have not read his full biography of Mandela's life, so I do not know how much the books overlap.
The preface by Mandela is a very short paragraph. The recommendation by Deepak Chopra is embarrassing on hindsight, considering what a jerk Chopra would turn out to be.
December 7, 2021
I grabbed Mandela's Way right after finishing a (very short) introductory biography of this great leader. The biography touched on some of Mandela's leadership along the way and left me wanting to know more. So, Mandela's Way promised to provide more of Mandela's leadership and life philosophies. And, Mandela's Way delivered on that promise.
Richard Stengel spent a lot of time with Mandela after he was released from prison. The goal - help Mandela write his autobiography. So, Stengel travelled with Mandela for a while. During their time together, Stengel interviewed his many times about many subjects. But, he also got to know Mandela personally. Mandela's Way was born out of that relationship.
The book covers many aspects of Mandela's life and clearly shows why he was one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century. It is not strictly a chronological biography. In order to touch on many subjects related to life, leadership, and personal relationships, the book jumps around a bit. So, I'm glad I read it after reading that (very short) introduction to Mandela's life.
Probably one of the greatest take-aways from the book is Mandela's belief in the dignity and value of all human life. Mandela despised injustice and especially racism. I found it interesting that Mandela not only believed that black Africans were the victims of colonialism, but that white Africans, the Afrikaners, were also victims of colonialism - they were just victims in a different way. The book explains Mandela's view better than I can, so I hope you'll grab a copy.
Mandela's way is a great book that has many lessons for everyone today. Those interested in learning how Mandela led will find many lessons herein. Grab and copy of Mandela's Way and enjoy!
Richard Stengel spent a lot of time with Mandela after he was released from prison. The goal - help Mandela write his autobiography. So, Stengel travelled with Mandela for a while. During their time together, Stengel interviewed his many times about many subjects. But, he also got to know Mandela personally. Mandela's Way was born out of that relationship.
The book covers many aspects of Mandela's life and clearly shows why he was one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century. It is not strictly a chronological biography. In order to touch on many subjects related to life, leadership, and personal relationships, the book jumps around a bit. So, I'm glad I read it after reading that (very short) introduction to Mandela's life.
Probably one of the greatest take-aways from the book is Mandela's belief in the dignity and value of all human life. Mandela despised injustice and especially racism. I found it interesting that Mandela not only believed that black Africans were the victims of colonialism, but that white Africans, the Afrikaners, were also victims of colonialism - they were just victims in a different way. The book explains Mandela's view better than I can, so I hope you'll grab a copy.
Mandela's way is a great book that has many lessons for everyone today. Those interested in learning how Mandela led will find many lessons herein. Grab and copy of Mandela's Way and enjoy!
April 9, 2020
Courage is not fearlessness. Courage is learning to cope with fear.
Look strong
Pretend to be brave
Appear courageous
Courage is a choice
Hide your fear
No matter what, stick to your core principles. Everything is negotiable.
Lead from the front: take the initiative, take risks and make sure you’re seen to be leading.
But leadership does not mean entitlement to special treatment. Leaders must also show humility, a willingness to stoop down to hard tasks instead of just delegating them to others.
Great leaders don’t just lead from the front; they also guide from the back.
Being up front and spearheading a movement certainly allows you to enjoy the limelight. But the limelight also has to be shared. Sometimes leaders have to move to the rear and empower others to lead.
Appearances matter: leadership is about looking the part.
Appearances are not deceptions; they present ideals that eventually become reality. Mandela would decide who he ideally wanted to be and would then put on the appearance of such a person, until, eventually, he internalized those ideals and became that person. But this also took immense discipline; he had to hide the faults and emotions that would prevent him from looking and becoming a great leader.
Because life is a long game, always take a long-term perspective.
Always seeing the good in others is not naive; it is the best way to bring out their good side.
Life brings you into many confrontations, so get to know your opponents well.
Saying no can be very difficult, but if it has to be done, say it clearly and firmly.
Look strong
Pretend to be brave
Appear courageous
Courage is a choice
Hide your fear
No matter what, stick to your core principles. Everything is negotiable.
Lead from the front: take the initiative, take risks and make sure you’re seen to be leading.
But leadership does not mean entitlement to special treatment. Leaders must also show humility, a willingness to stoop down to hard tasks instead of just delegating them to others.
Great leaders don’t just lead from the front; they also guide from the back.
Being up front and spearheading a movement certainly allows you to enjoy the limelight. But the limelight also has to be shared. Sometimes leaders have to move to the rear and empower others to lead.
Appearances matter: leadership is about looking the part.
Appearances are not deceptions; they present ideals that eventually become reality. Mandela would decide who he ideally wanted to be and would then put on the appearance of such a person, until, eventually, he internalized those ideals and became that person. But this also took immense discipline; he had to hide the faults and emotions that would prevent him from looking and becoming a great leader.
Because life is a long game, always take a long-term perspective.
Always seeing the good in others is not naive; it is the best way to bring out their good side.
Life brings you into many confrontations, so get to know your opponents well.
Saying no can be very difficult, but if it has to be done, say it clearly and firmly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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