The 48 Laws of Power
by Robert Greene
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Book Reviews of The 48 Laws of Power
Book Review: Not awful, but not great either
Summary: 3 Stars
This is one of those books you ought to check out from the library rather than buy. I love books, and I read books I love over and over, highlighting the parts I want to be sure and remember. This one I had high hopes for, but it just didn't measure up. The main problem I have with this book is the author contradicts himself constantly. On the one hand, he presents himself as the final authority on getting ahead using psychology and craftiness and all manner of clever wiles, but then he "covers" himself by including "Reversal" laws at the end of each chapter. He makes it seem like he's letting you in on closely guarded ancient secrets, making you privy to things only a special few know about, but in reality, most of it's pretty basic stuff dressed up in fancy language.
There were some interesting historical quotes, but in my opinion, about a third of these could have been edited out, or at least shortened, making the book less pompous and "blustery."
I agree with the reviewers before me; the book is inconsistent and the author is full of hot air. Save your money.
Book Review: Wait a minute!
Summary: 5 Stars
I have to write my own review here because I disagree with most of what I am reading in other reviews. Did you all really think that you were going to go home, read this book and become suddenly powerful?
This was not my approach with this book. Personally, I read it for entertainment and once I finished reading it, I felt satisfied. I thought it was well written, thought provoking and outrageously funny. The historical approach was very interesting too. My favourite law: Keep others in suspended terror, cultivate an air of unpredictability. I can't help but laugh when I try to picture someone actually trying to put this one in application!
Lighten up people, I don't think the author meant that everyone should follow these rules to the letter to get power, it is a mere provocation for the reader to reflect on the consequences of their actions.
Book Review: Guidelines for the Realists
Summary: 5 Stars
This book is a true guideline for the Realists or the Strategists.
Although the laws don't seem to follow each other, the sum is a compendium of solutions to stay competitive and gain an advantage if your mission is to be number one.
I strongly recommend it to individuals who have a need for "power & control".