The Eccentric Billionaire: John D. Macarthur - Empire Builder, Reluctant Philanthropist, Relentless Adversary

By Nancy Kriplen

He was hated, feared, and admired. The country's second-richest man at the time of his death, John D. MacArthur (1897-1978) also became one of its great benefactors. Every year, some two dozen... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0814408893
• ISBN13: 9780814408896
• Release Date: January 2008
• Publisher: Amacom Books
• Length: 224 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.3" x 1.3" x 6.3"
• Age Range: 17 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 12 and higher

Customer Reviews

Job Well Done!

When Nancy Kriplen puts pen to paper, something magic happens. In this case I refer to her new book "THE ECCENTRIC BILLIONAIR". This long overdue, well researched biography is the quintessential rags to riches story of one of this country's wealthiest, yet little known self made men. Kriplen paints with her well toned writing skills a never before seen picture of the good, bad and the ugly side of John Donald MacArthur. This book is a must read and a true treasure and will remain so for many years to come... Bob Sanford Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Nancy does it again!

How many times following a performance on PBS have you seen, "Produced through the generosity of The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation"? I never knew who they were or how he became a billionaire. Now I do, thanks to Nancy Kriplen and her well-written book! Follow MacArthur from Chicago to Palm Beach. Get to know this man, who was extremely frugal throughout his life, and whose legacy now enriches us all.

Another compelling biography by Nancy Kriplen

Nancy Kriplen, already proven to be an excellent biographer (buy her book on Dwight Davis - it's beautifully written), has done it again with her excellent book on John D. MacArthur. She has obviously done an incredible amount of research, yet she has the rare talent to be able to extract from her interviews and secondary research a summary of the best and most interesting information, giving us, as a result, a book of rich details. As a result, she both entertains and educates us about a fascinating, yet very unlikable -- and eccentric! - subject.

the eccentric billionaire

"Love this book. And the author's writing style matched MacArthur's quirkiness. I really think this is a winner." V. S. McKay Indianapolis IN

Excellent read!

Couldn't put it down! Very interesting look at the insurance business. Excellent detail and research.