Mastery

By: Robert Greene

Narrated by: Fred Sanders

Length: 16 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

The eagerly anticipated new book from the author of the best-selling The 48 Laws of Power

What did Charles Darwin, middling schoolboy and underachieving second son, do to become one of the earliest and greatest naturalists the world has known? What were the similar choices made by Mozart and by Caesar Rodriguez, the U.S. Air Force's last ace fighter pilot? In Mastery, Robert Greene's fifth book, he mines the biographies of great historical figures for clues about gaining control over our own lives and destinies. Picking up where The 48 Laws of Power left off, Greene culls years of research and original interviews to blend historical anecdote and psychological insight, distilling the universal ingredients of the world's masters.

Temple Grandin, Martha Graham, Henry Ford, Buckminster Fuller - all have lessons to offer about how the love for doing one thing exceptionally well can lead to mastery. Yet the secret, Greene maintains, is already in our heads. Debunking long-held cultural myths, he demonstrates just how we, as humans, are hardwired for achievement and supremacy. Fans of Greene's earlier work and Malcolm Gladwell's Outliers will eagerly devour this canny and erudite explanation of just what it takes to be great.

©2012 Robert Greene (P)2012 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

"Greene argues that mastery can come to anyone over time with dedication and application, which literally shape the brain to the task, and he gives frequent bios of famous achievers to underscore his tips and suggestions. Listeners may question his thinking and some of his advice, but Fred Sanders narrates Greene's assertions and arguments with conviction and without overselling, giving them an extra gloss of plausibility and credibility. His reading is clear and well paced. His tone is earnest and slightly intense, with an energetic edge, like that of a coach urging the listener to accomplishment, but controlled, giving an impression of class and intelligence. Greene would make a fine salesman; he and Sanders put the book across, doing their best to inspire the listener." (AudioFile magazine)

"Greene’s specialty is analyzing the lives and philosophies of historical figures like Sun Tzu and Napoleon, and extracting from them tips on how to manipulate people and situations - a cutthroat worldview that has earned him a devoted following among a like-minded readership of rappers, drug dealers and corporate executives." (The New York Times)

"Compelling." (Forbes)

Best book I've read on the subject

First of all, the narration is perfect. Regarding the book itself, I have read so many titles regarding mastery, self improvement, finding your Why, etc... This book is by far the best one. Practically following through amazing life stories and real details.

I can firmly recommend this book for anyone in a crossroad in his/her life. Or for anyone looking for an mind opening book

Excellent book!

Most be lisent to it more than ones, for the importance of the lecture. Excellent narration by Mr. Sanders. Is an overall satisfaction with this incredible book.

Great book

Great book, but the author keeps repeating the same things over and over again. Could have been much better if this wasn't the case

very useful

i highly recommend this to anyone pursuing greatness in any arena. well worth the listen.

Awesome follow up to 48 laws & 33 strategies of war

This book took my understanding to the next level... Where 48 laws of power left off Mastery, pick up and brought it home!!! Excellent

For those who are ready...

For those who are ready, this book will be transformational. Mastery is not a vague notion, but a clearly defined goal anyone can achieve.

Mastery: A Thinker's Paradise

The author found the perfect words to describe and analyze the intellectual and creative processes that can lead to mastery. An absolutely fascinating and inspiring book, its message is positive and self affirming throughout -- which made me look forward to each chapter. Robert Greene hit upon something special in this work, a kind of clarion call to honor the achievements of humanity from the dawn of man until now and to imagine how each of us can fit into a tomorrow filled with even greater strides of human ingenuity that benefit us all.

motivating

I began to reflect on my life it left me feeling that it's never to late to live to my fullest potential!

ONE OF THE BEST

What did you love best about Mastery?

I liked Robert's approach to explain the concept of mastery through real life examples. I've admired the works of DaVinci, Mozart, and more but I've never heard so many entertaining bio's all tied together with a common thread. If you are a person dedicated to the mastery of anything, whether it be yourself, your career, or anything else...I believe this book should be in your library.

Any additional comments?

This is in the top 5 books I've ever come across, and I'm including the bible and spiritual books in my top 5. I found this audio to be transformational, not just a good listen with practical tips but instead a life changing experience. Looking forward to listening to more Robert Greene material.

A very long book, but well worth the wait.

An incredible book filled with life lessons and truths about what it really takes to be a master of life, a master of your craft and how the greatest people of our time have made a dent on earth. An incredible read -- buy it.