This is a large, compelling biography of Beaverbrook, telling of his rise to riches in Canada before he reached the age of 30, his political career in the UK before World War One, his notoriety as a newspaper proprietor, and his role in Churchill's War Cabinet.

It is, however, no hagiography. After having read it, I couldn't help but feel that Beaverbrook was a deeply flawed and unlikeable character, notwithstanding his great wealth. Perhaps it is naive to look for or expect evidence of sainthood in people who have acquired vast amounts of money, of power or of both. Their very achievements might presuppose ruthlessness.

Both Beaverbrook and his social set come over as an unsavoury lot: Beaverbrook's treatment of his first wife was poor - he was an unrepentant and serial adulterer. But it seemed that in this behaviour he was not unusual among the rich of the time.

He used his wealth and control of newspapers shamelessly to influence events and politicians (some of whom seemed quite ready to be so influenced). Do times really change that much?

The author also examines Beaverbrook's role in the policy of appeasement towards Germany and Italy in the mid to late 1930s, particularly his cultivation of Von Ribbentrop. This was to cause Beaverbrook considerable emabarrassment in later years, tarnishing his wartime efforts (which are examined in detail in the book).

In all, a good read, but I came away with a feeling of relief that I am not among those who knew or worked for him.

G Rodgers

Success Stories by Michael B. Davie is an unusual gem of a book.
This is a hardcover book much like those community books you come across when visiting a city.
However, Success Stories avoids the touristy stuff to instead focus on the gripping, awe-inspiring stories of business people who overcame great odds to achieve success. Included in this excellent book is a profile on Ron Joyce, the co-founder of the Tim Hortons coffee-and-donuts chain. There's also a look at billionaire businessman Michael G. DeGroote. Well-written stories combined with outstanding photography make this a truly great book. Highly recommended.

This book is written by veteran journalist Michael Davie, and reflects his substantial experience with the English Language. If you're new to the Titanic story, and you've already read the books by Walter Lord and Don Lynch, then this book would be a welcome addition to your collection.