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Easy to read. Great examples. A "No Holds Barred" approach. Simple checklists. It's all there. After reading his book, you'll have the ability to see where the potential problems lie within your organization that will be an obstacle to implementing a leadership program.
Not sure about the last 1/3 of the book. He presents his methodolgy which is a bit complex and confusing. But that's okay, what I got out of the first 2/3rd's was well worth the purchase.
This book is not for the 'weak of heart' senior management folks who only wish to 'talk' about leadership.
One theme which Davis develops throughout his book is the increasingly important need not only to to preserve life but to "find new ways to nurture the quality of life." He affirms the value of various benefits created by "the speeding enterprises of the information world" even as we must do everything humanly possible to preserve the planet by pioneering the common good with convergent leadership. We must regain control (in common purpose) of the human "agenda", indeed to "rescue it from the clutches of the selfish few and their paid politicians." Another important theme (previously but only briefly indicated in this review) is what is generally referred to as "enlightened self-interest." That is to say, the most effective organizations, the "pioneering organizations" featured in Davis' book (including the four discussed in the appendices), illustrate a profitable and sustainable convergence of principled individualism with divergent priorities. The latter could well include "increased global understanding, mutual respect [between and among nations], and perhaps eventually world peace."
Who will derive the greatest value from this book? Primarily, I think, decision-makers in organizations within which there is a compelling, on-going need to combine the synergy of the team with the conviction of the individual. I agree with Davis that "the interdependent balancing of the interests of the individual with those of the group and community may have been the secret of pioneer America's economic success." That is even more true now than ever before. An individual with vision and determination in combination with effective teamwork can create a "dynamic tension which explains the energy and industry" of all pioneering cultures throughout the world. That may well be the "key" to both prosperity and peace. In that event, credit the pioneering organizations and their leaders.
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Enter The Complete Guide to Vegetarian Convenience Foods. Except for the foods marked with symbols to tell you they contain casein or honey, every item listed is vegan. They are grouped by food type (soy milk, soups, burgers, etc.) and brand. My copy is completely marked up with notes of different foods I want to try. Of course, not all these brands will be found in my local area, but the great thing about this book is that I have the exact information to give my store manager when I request that they carry a particular item from a certain company.
All the foods in this book were taste tested, and if they didn't measure up, they didn't make the printing! So you can feel assured that the foods listed are at least worth a try. In fact, Gail Davis, the author, includes a symbols for Author's Favorite and Kids Pick. There is also a symbol noting the fat free items. But I have to say that I am most appreciative of the fact that no items containing hydrogenated oils (trans fatty acids, known to be quite dangerous to your health) are included in this book. I personally thanked the author for that. She has saved me loads of time!
Also included is a section on pets, a list of resources, and a list of suppliers complete with addresses and phone numbers. It's obvious that a tremendous amount of work went into compiling this useful tool, and every vegan family should have one. I wholly believe (pardon the pun) in a diet consisting mainly of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, seeds and legumes. But who doesn't enjoy a veggie burger or packaged cookie once in a while? People always ask me about how much time it takes me to read labels on every packaged food I buy. I tell them that although I do spend a lot of time researching my purchases, when I find a brand I like, I just stick with it. I don't have to read labels every single time I go shopping. And with this book, now I hardly have to read them at all!