The First Billion is the Hardest: Reflections on a Life of Comebacks and America's Energy Future

Overall this was a very informative book for anyone interested the future of the U.S. as a world power. There's something for everyone in here. Some of the more interesting topics covered where: big oil, natural gas, commodities trading, building a business from the ground up, leadership, taking risks, having a plan, many 'Boon-isms', taking care of yourself and leaving a legacy. Of course you'll learn a tremendous amount what makes T. Boone tick. If you are following the energy crisis (which could be a bigger issue than the housing and financial crisis), renewables, global warming, or the Pikens Plan, you'll learn a lot in this book. The only negative I found where a few of the statistics. I thought they may have been stretched to play on your emotion. That said, I found most of the stats to be well researched and backed up with credible sources.

This is a story of a guy who didn't know how to quit. This was one of the more interesting accounts of business success I've heard.

I enjoyed this personal account that covered a lifetime in the industry. The dates, names of people and places, and discrete conversations made each recollection seem like is just happened yesterday. I also found the hindsight to be critical yet produce a learning point.

I was hoping to hear an inspiring story from a captain of industry and an expert on energy. What I heard was an unabashed review of "Boonisms" that were clearly self serving towards helping Mr. Pickens strut his stuff. Even on energy, all he was doing was pitching the listener on replacing gasoline with natural gas, which he sells! In my opinion, this book was an entire waste of time.

Great business story and his ups and downs. His energy policy outline makes all the sense and our dependence on foreign oil expands that catch phrase. Interesting that he mentions all presidential candidates refer to getting the US less dependent on foreign oil and never layout a plan. I was listening to this as Romney and Obama were doing just that! He has a really sound plan and should be appointed energy secretary of the US and get us moving in that direction. The US has real problems in the near future if something isn't done.

I'm typically skeptical of financial books, but I must admit, I enjoyed listening to this book. The various tips ("Boone-isms") and humor make it enjoyable. It's a great story of his life, struggles and successes -- all from his point of view.
I recommend it.

I think Mr. Pickens wrote this book with himself as the target audience. It's kind of jumbly and sounds like it's written by a really old man. (sorry but he really is old) Much of the book is dedicated to his business strategy which is not really applicable to most ppl who earn less than $30million a year.

Contains factual content and autobiography (this is interesting) along with a number of 'Boonisms' or what have you. These are actually quite funny and many are old fashioned or classics. I found this somewhat dry as it includes a lot of content about companies and mergers and acquisitions and stock prices. It is not terribly informative or inspiring for going out and making your own first billion. I do appreciate the straightforwardness of the content. T. Boone Pickens' matter of fact world view is at times cynical though in a say it like it is way and he backs up every statement with one or more personal anecdotes. He shares some interesting personal quirks such as the fact that he has a 'lucky' pair of trousers, which I appreciate.

This is a really great book. T. Boone is a fasinating personality and has a great history. The book is very readable and does honor to the man. A definite MUST READ.

T. Boone Pickens story is inspiring. There's still hope to become a billionaire. This is a timely book and pertains to now. Get it read it and share it.