Book review: The Snowball: Warren Buffet and the Business of Life by Alice Schroeder

I found the most interesting parts of this biography about Warren Buffet were those sections that dealt with his personal relationships. His singular focus on business and money created wacky family dynamics. Pay special attention to his life with wife, Susie, and later how she hand selects someone to care for him when she opts to pursue a singing career.

As someone who spends the majority of her time worrying about the reputation of a publicly-traded organization, the parts of the book that deal with public perceptions were fascinating. I applaud Buffet for recognizing that a reputation can be extraordinary asset, but damaged within a blink of eye. I like that he is more concerned about the erosion of reputation than dollars, as a reputation is earned over an extended period of time by marrying up both words and actions.

Buffet has certainly built a reputation for himself - shrewd, hamburger-eating, Cherry Coke drinking, rich dude from Omaha. Reading this book will reveal just how eccentric and demanding he is. Yet, you'll still walk away from the tome liking the guy. He is, indeed, a paradox on multiple levels.

Don't let the size of this book intimidate you. It is a fast and easy read.