War Front to Store Front

While I was initially skeptical of yet another businessman entering into the political quagmire of Washington, and emerging with insights and a book deal, [a:Paul Brinkley 5876604 Paul Brinkley https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/u_50x66-ccc56e79bcc2db9e6cdcd450a4940d46.png] pleasantly surprised me.For the first quarter to third of the book, I wasn't entirely sold on the concept of the book, nor was I sure that I even liked the author. Was he another businessman telling the government they can't do anything right? Is he trying to privatize the Department of Defense? As the story unfolded, though, I grew to respect and even like the author. (I know, not a required part of any book, but important when the author is the protagonist) Brinkley's nuanced approach to situations separates him from normal political operators. His humanity, willingness to place himself and his team in harms way to improve the lives of the citizens he's working with, and his extraordinary business background make him an excellent guide to economic redevelopment.Overall, I found the book dense and difficult to read at some points - thankfully, I have taken some business and entrepreneurship classes, exposing me to basic economic and business jargon - but nonetheless thoroughly enjoyable and worthwhile.Most importantly, his recommendations for improving US foreign aid and economic development are phenomenal - among the best I've seen so far, and surprising to boot!