The 2008 800-CEO-READ Business Book Awards - Biographies & Memoirs

Inside Drucker's Brain
by Jeffrey Krames (Portfolio, November 2008)

Jeffrey Krames relates Drucker's stories like the talented writer he is, plopping the reader down in Drucker's life, practically sitting in his living room or the Italian restaurant where they went to lunch. This is the best way to learn, by hearing stories, which Peter Drucker told all his life.

The Thief at the End of the World: Rubber Power, and the Seeds of Empire
by Joe Jackson (Viking, March 2008)

The fascinating story of Henry Wickham, who went to the jungle to find the seeds to the most valuable rubber--and pull off one of the greatest heists of all time--is told here with excitement, intrigue and homage to the wonders of science and industry. Through Wickham's story, Joe Jackson reveals the importance of rubber during the Industrial Revolution and explains how advancements like vulcanization, which makes rubber harder and more usable, sparked worldwide demand and a renewed entrepreneurial spirit.

Water Cooler Diaries: Women Across America Share Their Day at Work
edited by Joni B. Cole & B. K. Rakhra (Da Capo Lifelong Books, March 2008)

March 27, 2007, hundreds of women across America created a diary entry of their workday. This book contains thirty-five of those full-day diary entries and many more highlights or excerpts. Bloggers, a school custodian, a rancher, and an orthopedic trauma surgeon are among the heartfelt and real people talking about their lives.

Inside Steve's Brain
by Leander Kahney (Portfolio, May 2008)

Steve Jobs has done some amazing things in his life. He and his company have created brilliant products. He is also somewhat of an oddball. Blogger, author and Wired news editor Leander Kahney shows us all sides of this complicated man, including his famous temper, his obsessions, his anti-materialism and above all his exceptional leadership.