Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun?: How Reginald Lewis Created a Billion-Dollar Business Empire Paperback – October 13, 2005

I absolutely love this book!! I will give my honest review on this book. The Author does a good job on exposing the reader to the important aspects to the life of the great Reginald F. Lewis. Before reading this book, I have never heard of him and after reading this I wonder why I didn't read this book in High School.As a black businessman, I can relate to all of the racial struggles Mr. Lewis had face. As black entrepreneurs, we have to do more than necessary to exceed expectations. I love how he did not let race adversity stop him and he continued on. Its almost like his life is a strong resemblance of a poem written by Langston Hughes called Mother to Son. Life for us have been no crystal stare.This book should be in high school curriculums across the U.S. because it allows for black men and women that someone like you have accomplish extraordinary wealth and success and you can too. You just need to believe in yourself and if Reginald Lewis can do it? So can I.Key takeaways:Pros:The book had some excerpts from Reginald Lewis explaining from his point of view of the important aspects of his life.The author did a fine job allowing the reader to see how hard Reginald work and how determined he was through his High School days, through Harvard Law and even through Corporate Law. This skill allowed him to be ultra successful in being a financier.The most important pro is hearing Reginald Lewis point of view towards charity and entrepreneurship. His points allowed me to look at business from another lens.First, he led the charge for Harvard to focus their agenda on International business because he saw that business is going to be on a global scale and students must be prepared for global challenges. In my opinion this stemmed from his managing and owning Beatrice Foods International.Second; We need to consider Corporate Takeovers rather than starting a business from scratch. I 100% agree with this. There is so much success that goes with buying businesses rather than starting from scratch: the brand, track record and in some caes easy access to private capital. The problem that I see today is that most people want to start a business from scratch when most businesses failed in the first five years. To me it makes logical sense to buy businesses that are already performing. Add value and sale to other buyers at a later date. That was Reginald Lewis's business strategy. Buy a business, add value and extract that value by selling. It is a value add approach. Which allowed me to see why the book is titled: "Why White Guys Have All the Fun". His legal clients were doing just what he did.Cons:As I mentioned, I want to give an honest review so here are some cons I think could have benefit the reader.1. When exactly did Reginald Lewis wanted to get in the world of Corporate Takeovers and how did he prepare for this change. The book mentioned briefly that he started thinking about corporate takeovers and reading prospectus. However I believe that he must have had someone advise him on how to structure these deals as well as present them to investors.This brings me to my 2nd con.I wish the author could have broke down the specifics of the deal from a math prospective. What were the projected return for investors and how did he learned the sew (McCall Company) and food business.Overall Excellent Book!!!!!

This book was pretty good, not what I was looking for with regard to starting a company but did give wonderful insight on this steadfast and remarkable man, from childhood he seemed to know that he wanted greatness and because of his mom and stepfather honestly his small circle of family and friends he achieved a level of success that was unprecedented for AA at his time and despite the racism he encountered he never let it define him and always saw these obstacles as flaws in his approach instead of his complexion. I always say intelligence is the best defense against racism and he surely showed them how intelligent he was. Bravo!

This book is incredible. Tapping into the life of Reginald Lewis shows us that anything is possible with an opportunity & unwavering focus to succeed. This book covers his upbringing in Baltimore, family ties & foundation, His incredible work ethic through high school all while being a student athlete.The no nonsense stories about his journey & his mercurial attitude, makes for an interesting story. The way he persevered through business deals gone good & bad, it shows how motivated Reginald was to show he deserved a seat at the table.I recommend this book to any one with goals & aspirations to follow the journey of someone who set goals, had extreme focus & conquered despite odds being stacked against them.

Mr.Lewis was a remarkable man who wasn’t bound by color nor an impoverished community. The book breaks down the stages of a mind that is driven by success, challenges, & the betterment of society. He gives out jewels that can be used by anyone no matter what color, class, or creed. Definitely a recommendation on the reading list.

I had never heard much if anything about Reginald Lewis but happened to learn of him on social media. This book is very well written and includes a detailed account of Mr. Lewis’ financial successes as well as an intimate look into his private life. I had to use a glossary for a few definitions of words which is great, as this is good reading for any intellectual who likes to expand their knowledge of any kind. Gave it 4 stars and not 5 simply becuz I felt there was a bit too much detail about the financial transactions which would’ve probably been more easily understood by someone in the financial field rather than a layman like myself. Nonetheless, great book.

I just got started reading and instantly I am loving this new read. So intriguing.

One of the greatest businessmen to ever live. This book will motivate you to achieve. The great Reginald Lewis was a paragon of excellence. His story delivers hope. You will enjoy learning about his life and legacy. His meteoric rise as well as the human frailty that eventually impacts everyone. What a great American story of triumph that is as relevant now as ever. Amazing.

The item was in great shape.