Offering readers a snapshot of a moment in history that left no company unscathed, the book zooms in to show, in riveting detail, how one company struggled and recreated itself in the midst of it all. The fast paced narrative is driven by day-to-day tension as conflicts arise and lets readers into Schultz's psyche as he comes to terms with his limitations and evolving leadership style. Onward is a compelling, candid narrative documenting the maturing of a brand as well as a businessman.
Onward represents Schultz's central leadership philosophy: It's not just about winning, but the right way to win. Ultimately, he gives readers what he strives to deliver every day- a sense of hope that, no matter how tough times get, the future can be just as or more successful than the past, whatever one defines success to be.
"Through the lens of his personal leadership journey, with all of its dizzying ups and agonizing downs, Howard Schultz has written, with aching honesty and passion, the single most important book on leadership and change for our time and for every generation of leaders. This book is not just recommended reading, it's required."
Warren Bennis, Distinguished Professor of Business, University of Southern California, and author of the recently published Still Surprised: A Memoir of a Life in Leadership
"[This] sequel to the founding of Starbucks is grittier, more gripping, and dramatic, and [Schultz's] voice is winning and authentic. This is a must-read for anyone interested in leadership, management, or the quest to connect a brand with the consumer."
Publishers Weekly
The Starbucks Foundation and the CUP Fund
All of Howard Schultz's proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated to the Starbucks Foundation, founded in 1997 to support the company's commitment to community; and the CUP Fund, founded by partners (employees) to provide financial relief to partners facing emergency situations that have unexpectedly impacted their life.
Joanne Gordon is a former Forbes writer who has spent more than a decade profiling companies and business leaders for numerous publications. She has written five previous books.