What Makes the Great Great: Strategies for Extraordinary Achievement

by Dennis Kimbro and Joseph Fielding Smith

Book Overview

Part vocational pep rally, part how-to book, in What Makes the Great Great, bestselling author Dennis Kimbro explores the strategies and thought processes of successful African-Americans.

What Makes the Great Great elaborates on the inspiring message Dennis Kimbro put forth in his first book Think and Grow Rich--A Black Choice. Through dozens of interviews and the inspirational stories of people like John H. Johnson,...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0385483961
• ISBN13: 9780385483964
• Release Date: January 1998
• Publisher: Crown Publishing Group
• Length: 336 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.5" x 8.2"

Customer Reviews

Not just another change your thoughts/change your life book!

I love books like this! This book is not only inspiring, but it gives the reader clear examples and instructions on how to achieve your own greatness. When I first picked this up, I wasn't sure how this book would stand out among all the others I've read that are along the same lines as this. I've read numerous books by Napoleon Hill, Og Mandino, Dale Carnegie, Neville, etc. So, I was wondering if this was just another off-shoot of those, and I was wondering if my time might be better spent re-reading the classics that I mentioned above. I was pleasantly surprised when I started reading and discovered that not only is this book a reinforcement of the above mentioned favorites of mine, but the style is highly appealing to me. This is not just another 'change your thoughts, change your life' type book. This is not a book of quotes, but there are a plethora of really good statements/examples of acheivement and quotes throughout, that I believe can be extrememly beneficial. I love quotes that inspire, motivate and resonate with me. There are many, many really good things to write down and review often from this book. I was impressed when I read the part about the author meeting with Clement Stone personally and how Mr. Kimbro accepted the project challenge even though Mr. stone decided against offering any financial inducement. -Because Mr. Stone felt it was important for Dennis to experience the very thing he was trying to convey to the audience. That made me realize that this man can truly write about this stuff. He didn't just get a bunch of books/materials together and come up with his own translation -he experienced the journey himself. "Success in any area of life isn't something you do; rather it's something to see. Success is an understanding, not an activity." -from the book. Great book. I hope you will read it, love it, and use it in your own life!

Great for anyone

Dr. Kimbro relates stories of Black Americans for this book, but the message holds true for everyone! Just look past color and recognize that the messages here will work for all. Dr. Kimbro uses stories to support his concepts and he does a nice job of it. I got it from the library, but enjoyed it so much and wanted to reference it that I bought it! Good writing, well layed out, good message. To simplify so that you can get the main points you might want to summarize and condense the "meat". The stories are great, but the main points can really help anyone be successful if they chose. Read it!

TEACH...Kimbro...TEACH!!!!

"You learn how to be successful by watching other successful people. This books does a wonderful job of tracking these successful people. Dr. Kimbro shares his experiences with success. It is a great resource!"

A mentor for building interpersonal characteristics.

"What Makes the Great Great" is a mentor for building interpersonal characteristics for extraordinary achievement. "What Makes the Great Great" is a superb book and the best book I have ever read. I found the book to be very captivating, in that whenever I discuss it with someone they become very interested. Two colleagues have actually purchased their own copies. It is a tremendous book to read in regards to building up your character, personality, and state of mind to achieve success. Dennis Kimbro speaks of many, many African Americans who have strived to achieve their goals and dreams. He has done an enormous amount research to provide situations in which individuals were challenged, but most importantly uses them to illustrate key points. A fantastic context that gives fine points about preparing and maintaining one's self for extraordinary achievement. Dr. Kimbro discusses nine strategies for extraordinary achievement, fear, pray, learning from failure, choosing the correct vocation, and many other key factors. A reader will find interesting data about African Americans, which they will not resist giving second thoughts or sharing with a friend or relative. "What Makes the Great Great" will help and inspirer one to leave the shore so that they can see new waters. I have read other interesting and informative books about great African American achievers to find out how they became great and another motivational book, but Dr. Kimbros' book really explains the various aspects to becoming great and successful. It has been an influence to me pursing a M.B.A. and applying many of the details he mentions.

outstanding book, extremely powerful and moving

I have read everyone N. Hill, A.Robbins, B.Tracy, W.Clemente Stone, D.Waitley, J.Rohn and some other motivational writers but Dennis Kimbro uses a pen as an artist with paper as his canvas. I must say his information is the same as all these great men I have mentioned, but what sets Dennis Kimbro apart is how he presents this book. Once you pick it up you can't put it down until your done. Kimbro is defintely an accomplished author. I feel this book is in step with Think and Grow Rich (the timeless classic). A MUST without question for everyone to read about how people turn poverty into fortune with hard work. This book offers no get rich quick scheme or live off the work of others, its a roll up your sleeves type of blue collar book, full of inspiration and heart. Thank You Dennis and all who helped Mr. Kimbro in this masterpiece.