LOST SOMETHING?

No. reviewers 380K+
Rating 4.5 - 4.7
90%+ rated 4 or 5 stars 

Shoe Dog is the memoir of Phil Knight, the co-founder of Nike, Inc. In this fascinating and deeply personal account, Knight takes readers on a journey through the early years of Nike, from its humble beginnings as Blue Ribbon Sports to becoming one of the most iconic and successful brands in the world.

The book explores Knight’s entrepreneurial spirit, the challenges he faced, and the risks he took along the way, all while grappling with the personal and professional obstacles of growing a global company. Knight shares the highs and lows of his journey, including struggles with financial instability, competition, and the complex dynamics of business partnerships.

Written with candour and insight, Shoe Dog not only chronicles the rise of Nike but also offers a profound look at the relentless pursuit of a dream and the passion that drives successful entrepreneurs.

What reviewers loved

Honest and Candid Storytelling: Many readers appreciated Knight’s honesty in sharing the real struggles and setbacks behind Nike’s success. The memoir is seen as refreshingly candid, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the difficulties faced by entrepreneurs.

Inspiring Account of Entrepreneurship: Reviewers found Knight’s journey to be incredibly motivating. His determination, vision, and resilience in the face of adversity resonated with aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners alike.

Insight into Nike's Creation: Readers were fascinated by the detailed account of how Nike grew from a small, struggling business into a global powerhouse. The book provides valuable lessons on branding, marketing, and innovation.

Personal Reflections on Leadership: Knight’s reflections on leadership, trust, and teamwork were widely praised. Many readers appreciated the insights he shared on how to build and manage a company, as well as his emphasis on the importance of company culture.

Engaging and Well-Written: The book’s writing style was widely appreciated, with many readers finding it easy to read and engaging. Knight’s storytelling keeps the reader captivated, making it a compelling business memoir.

Focus on Passion and Perseverance: Reviewers admired the emphasis Knight places on passion and perseverance as key drivers of success. His determination to build Nike despite numerous challenges was particularly inspiring for many.

Emphasis on Relationships: The book highlights the importance of relationships and loyalty in business, particularly Knight’s bond with his early partners, employees, and mentors. Readers found these personal connections to be one of the most meaningful aspects of the memoir.
 
Lack of Focus on Nike's Social Impact: A few reviewers felt that the book could have done more to address Nike’s controversial social and environmental issues. While Knight focused on the company’s growth and success, some readers wanted a more balanced view of its impact on the world.

Overemphasis on the Personal Journey: While many appreciated the personal aspects of Knight’s story, some readers felt that the memoir occasionally dwelled too much on his individual experiences and less on the broader context of Nike’s influence on the sports industry and culture.

Perceived Privilege: Some readers felt that Knight’s privileged background, including his education and financial resources, meant that Nike didn’t start from scratch in the way other entrepreneurial ventures might. They argued that his access to opportunities and support networks made his journey seem less relatable for readers from more modest beginnings.