I’ve read more than a few books for managers. Most have been quite good at addressing the manager’s need for both expertise and passion (a two-legged stool, if you will).

Thorpe’s book is written on a stool of three legs: expertise, passion, and faith. To be more accurate, Doug launches from a base of faith that enables him to write about expertise and passion in a compelling manner. When you read Chapter 47 (Building Quality Relationships), you can rest assured the author spends time in his local church putting into practice his call to form deep friendships. While I cannot personally attest as to his relationship-building practices outside my congregation, it’s a good bet that Doug lives likewise with those outside his community of faith.

In short, this is a book that can be read by anyone in any managerial setting. And while unapologetically Christian in his faith, Doug’s approach will appeal to managers of any religious tribe. Get it. Read it. Read it again.

I’ve read several books on management and/or leadership techniques and methods but what made this book an enjoyable read was first the content and secondly the style of how the book was written. The whole time I felt like I was having a conversation with a mentor/friend, sharing details of past experiences that are similar to some of my own triumphs and hardships, and collecting helpful advice.

This guide has taught me not only new management/leadership techniques but also made me think of ways I could readjust my leadership style to achieve better results professionally and with my family.

I know God works in mysterious ways, and I really feel like the content in chapter 6 helped me realign myself with what is most important in life.