Start-Up Nation

The Story of Israel's Economic Miracle

By: Dan Senor, Saul Singer

Narrated by: Sean Pratt

Length: 8 hrs and 24 mins

Publisher's summary

Start-Up Nation addresses the trillion-dollar question: How is it that Israel - a country of 7.1 million, only 60 years old, surrounded by enemies, in a constant state of war since its founding, with no natural resources - produces more start-up companies than large, peaceful, and stable nations like Japan, China, India, Korea, Canada, and the UK?

With the savvy of foreign policy insiders, Senor and Singer examine the lessons of the country's adversity-driven culture, which flattens hierarchy and elevates informality - all backed up by government policies focused on innovation. In a world where economies as diverse as Ireland, Singapore, and Dubai have tried to re-create the "Israel effect", there are entrepreneurial lessons well worth noting. As America reboots its own economy and can-do spirit, there's never been a better time to look at this remarkable and resilient nation for some impressive, surprising clues.

©2009 Dan Senor and Saul Singer (P)2009 Gildan Media Corp

Critic reviews

"There is a great deal for America to learn from the very impressive Israeli Entrepreneurial model - beginning with a culture of leadership and risk management. Start-Up Nation is a playbook for every CEO who wants to develop the next generation of corporate leaders." (Tom Brokaw)
"No one else, in my judgment, has written regularly about Israel in recent years with more clarity than Singer." (William Kristol, Editor, The Weekly Standard)

A critique by an Israeli lady: good macro analysis

I must admit that reading this book has made me look at my home country through another set of glass. Some things that I have not even been aware of. Very interesting and profound observations on the Israeli people, that are very much true in the macro. I lacked the view in the micro, on the day-to-day lives, on the school education, and on the things that make us who we are, not just outliers. Nonetheless, so ,any accurate conclusions that have made me quite surprised that one from the outside could get. Really good!

the best in class of business history

perfect funnny, loaded with inspiring observations, organization good, performance super. Should be read by politicians, teachers and business people not once but once a year.

Insight Info

If you could sum up Start-Up Nation in three words, what would they be?

One great book that reveals the driven factors of the innovative culture in Israel that can be applied anywhere else.

Fascinating read

I learned a lot about Israel and its culture and how its poised to be the next super power. Great read

Fascinating Information!

Where does Start-Up Nation rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Definitely one of my favorite non-fiction books. It was interesting to explore the psychology of another culture that doesn't have all of the same conventions as many other countries.

Any additional comments?

The reading was well done and the book was compelling.

Great examples to consuder!

Very knowledgeable in many areas of economics, technologies, politics of modern world. Relevant experience which can be applied by many other countries.

Highly motivating and comprehensive

I enjoyed listening more than twice, it is comprehensive and motivating book well written and almost complete. I believe there are more reasons for the Israeli hi tech scene lasting bloom but as above, most are covered in this wonderful book.

Excellent Read

An interesting and an eye-opening look at Israel. Their can-do attitude is invigorating.

Good start

Started with this book in audible, and I made the right decision. The narration is good.

Israel-An Economic Miracle!

It is truly unbelievable that a small country like Israel, surrounded by enemies looking to destroy it, has been able to transform itself into a technology powerhouse that is the envy of all nations. One can only imagine what the Middle East economy would look like if the Arab countries finally agreed to make peace with Israel and work together in order to achieve a better future for their citizens.