True Grit

by Theodore Pappas

How did the great men and women who changed the world actually do it?  Were they simply smarter and more talented than the rest of us?  What was their secret? The accomplishments of the great are widely known, but their many battles with adversity, frequent setbacks and defeats, and the personal and professional hardships they endured along the way and ultimately drew strength from the dark underside of achievement that is seldom illuminated. This book examines ten historic figures--from the world of sports and popular culture to literature, business, science, statecraft, and social outreach--and highlights how they left their legendary mark on the world. Their recipes for success were many and varied, but all had one key ingredient in that life-changing mix of passion and perseverance popularly known as grit.

143 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 15, 2018

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

The forward left me feeling a little nervous of the coming pages. In introducing the stories, to me, it felt that the suggestion of perseverance in the face of failure was an indicator of good character. Almost of morality.

I would have preferred just to have read the stories and make my own conclusions. Many of the stories are inspirational, almost to the point of providing some comfort for our own failures.

The Clara Barton, Madeleine Albright, Thomas Edison and Marie Curie chapters were particular stand outs. Joe Louis' story was the hardest read and disappointingly for a book published in 2018, the only person of colour featured in the book.

I question some of the inclusions. The Abraham Lincoln chapter spends a lot of time to his appearance, the suggestion being that even someone considered ugly could become president.

Including Ian Fleming is also a kick in the teeth as much of his success is likely due to his connections than tenacity or perseverance.

I prefer the concept more than the execution.

[Racheal Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read

Great read for inspiring and motivating in all varieties of life circumstances. Historically interesting throughout the book. Would be great required reading for high school students.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

1/2025 Amazing stories of people who overcame tremendous obstacles to recognize their dreams. The variety of people, fields, and times represented made for interesting stories. Good amount of information on each person with adequate descriptions of the culture of the times.