This week, Kathleen McKeon posted a review of my book that I wanted to share with you all. She says Creative Capital is a great read about an inspirational Frenchman that is good for “economy shapers, history buffs, and those needing a little inspiration through the power of perseverance.”
5.0 out of 5 stars
Venture Capital started on the East Coast, July 16, 2009
By kathleen mckeon
Creative Capital develops the frame of mind that was necessary to ultimately launch the venture capital world in the US. That VC was encumbered by political and corporate realities is entirely the point. As you hear those outside of the money world (journalists, academics, regular folk) talk of VC, you may wonder if it really is so free wheeling. No, it is not and Creative Capital makes that abundantly clear.
The historical context of Georges’ life and even his father’s was helpful and instructive. What was most powerful was the discussion of later years when Georges’ firm struggled to retain talent and to place investments. An argument is made that essentially tax code crippled the firm – my over simplification for review purposes. For students of politics and how politics shapes economies, this is an excellent resource.
At no point is any character in the book beatified. This is not a sing-songy congratulatory book. It is a solid look at the conditions that led to early VC on the East Coast and eventual dominance by VC on the West Coast . . . it wasn’t the trees, running trails and views that pulled people West. You will get a much better feel for the forces that pushed VC out of the East as well as the forces that drew VC West.
It is a great read about an inspirational Frenchman who was thoroughly American. American spirit at its best.
1 part history, 1 part politics, 2 parts economics, 3 parts clever
Good for: Economy shapers, history buffs, and those needing a little inspiration through the power of perseverance.
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