Alexander The Great: The Macedonian Who Conquered the World
Written by Sean Patrick
This book is not a biography or carefully researched book about military history. Rather it is a book with a very specific point of view on how to set out to achieve your goals. In fact, the first quarter of the book deals with the theory that the simplest way to defeat obstacles that stand in your way and to systematically accomplish the goals you set for yourself is to be as determined in your drive as Alexander the Great. Patrick’s theory states that if you do this, you will show your bravery and tenacity to your opponents, who will then lose the will to keep fighting you.
The middle section of this book retells the events of Alexander’s campaigns. Patrick consistently presents Alexander in a favorable light, largely discounting other reasons for success or failure. Finally the last third of the book explains what the author calls The Power of Purpose. All of us should learn from Alexander’s journey to greatness that to be successful the reader needs to do the following: strengthen her will by having a clear purpose, put that purpose into motion, and then follow through to reach the goal by never relenting or giving up on it.
This is an interesting theory, if you are looking for inspiration and motivation. On the other hand, if you are expecting to find a book based on meticulous historical research or an accurate portrait of Alexander’s life, this one will not fill your expectations. At approximately fifty pages, it is a short motivational read for young adults and adult readers.
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10 responses to “DRIVE AND DETERMINATION”
Forever Joyful
September 3rd, 2015 at 11:53
My husband loves reading classics and pieces from ancient history. I’ll have to share this with him!
Michele Morin
September 3rd, 2015 at 11:59
Wow, this is a great review. I love the way you teased out the positive contribution the book makes, while acknowledging its weaknesses.
bamauthor
September 3rd, 2015 at 12:29
Thanks, Michele. I hope that you will continue to follow my reviews.
bamauthor
September 3rd, 2015 at 12:47
It’s a fun, quick read….
Julie Anne Grasso
September 4th, 2015 at 20:04
What an interesting book, Barbara. Inspiration and motivation wrapped up in the tale of Alexander, very unique. Thanks for sharing it with us at the Kid Lit Blog Hop
bamauthor
September 5th, 2015 at 12:27
Certainly a different approach to motivation….If you enjoy history, it will appeal to you.
mommynificent
September 10th, 2015 at 12:14
Thanks for sharing about this book. It really helps to know the direction it is coming from! Thanks for sharing this at Booknificent Thursday!
Tina
bamauthor
September 10th, 2015 at 12:57
Yes, you can’t always tell a book by its cover!
Stacie Theis (@beachboundbooks)
September 11th, 2015 at 14:28
This sounds like a must read for my teen boys as they venture into adulthood to pursue their dreams. So happy you shared this. Definitely going to grab a copy.
bamauthor
September 11th, 2015 at 17:30
Happy to have been of service. Let me know what they think of it!