Keep Chopping Wood: A Preacher's Son Who Had It All, Lost It All, and Then Regained True Wealth

by Mike Hardwick, Dava Guerin

Keep Chopping Wood is an engaging and inspirational book that tells the colorful life story of Lawson H. (Mike) Hardwick, III, one of the most well-known businessmen and philanthropists in Nashville, Tennessee and around the country. He tells his story with passion and heart, from growing up as the son of a pastor, who founded a church in Nashville that grew to roughly 8,000 members during his tenure of over sixty years, to building many successful businesses, surviving depression and creating a corporate culture dedicated to serving others. His compelling story is also filled with life lessons on how to achieve a better and happier life which he shares in a lively and interesting manner. Readers from all walks of life will enjoy and learn from his many experiences and reflections as well as his captivating storytelling.

Genres: Nonfiction, Biography

270 pages, Hardcover

Published August 9, 2016

Reviews

[Gerjen Slim · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too religious.

[Christopher Sweet · Rating 3 out of 5]

There are good leadership principles in Mike’s book. There are inspirational examples and quotes as well: good principles to live by. I was reminded to value people more and tasks less.

The more we’re two main problems I had with “Keep Chopping Wood”. The first, is that some of the “testimonials” come across, as presented, as a bit boastful. Mike seems to be sharing the stories of others rather than allowing them to tell them. The second issue that I have is that with his amazing platform and his spiritual upbringing, he seems to only reference God as a convenient resource rather than the source of salvation. God sounds like a good business partner rather than the only way to eternal life.

[Patrick Joseph · Rating 2 out of 5]

The writer has had many different accomplishments, but he is not a writer. This is plainly evident throughout his book which reads like Andy giving Opie a lesson that doesn't seem to end. The use of quotations takes away from the believability in his writing, and it would have flowed better if he stated things plainly.
The strong point in his writing was when he would reflect on others' lives and connect them to his topic.

[Mark Bunch · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for entrepreneurs. Hardwick does a great job laying out the mindset of the self-made man. i enjoyed his discussion of his mentor Dick freeman, his career at First American, his years in condo conversion. I just learned a lot and enjoyed this book greatly. Mike is on the Board of Directors at THDA. Tennessee Housing development agency. I encourage anyone to read his life story.

[Jodi Uplinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good book. So many encouraging practices about how to run a business and just care for people.