The Turnaround Kid, by Steve Miller

Those of us who are old enough to remember the Chrysler layoffs will appreciate hearing the other side of the story, as told by Steve Miller, then CFO, who was an architect of the restructuring that enabled Chrysler to stay in business. Mr. Miller’s voice is that of an ethical and skilled executive, whose talents have saved several major companies from ruin. Because he interweaves his personal story with that of his corporate saves, the book is an interesting read even for those with no interest in business. In The Turnaround Kid, Steve Miller paints the portrait of a man who discovers that he was “blessed with some personal traits” (ability to work hard, not take things personally, and compartmentalize his personal and professional lives) that enabled him to rise to the challenges put before him. He also gives a glimpse into the indomitable spirit of his wife Maggie, his “mentor and tormentor”, who was his soulmate for 40 years. The Turnaround Kid is a well-written chronicle of an extraordinary person who accomplished extraordinary things, yet kept his moral character and love of family in the forefront. (This book review was submitted to Harper Collins as part of their First Look program.)