In a world saturated with leadership books, it’s rare to find one that cuts through the noise with both authenticity and impact. “Who The F*ck Is Michael?!” does exactly that, and its provocative title is just the beginning of its unconventional wisdom.
The author, Elyezer Shkedy, brings unique credibility to this work as the fifteenth commander of the Israeli Air Force. His background as the son of a Hungarian-Jewish Holocaust survivor and an Egyptian-Jewish immigrant adds layers of depth to his perspective on resilience and leadership.
The book’s impressive reception in Israel speaks volumes about its practical value – it has sold over 30,000 copies in its Hebrew edition and was the most-read book by Israeli military personnel in 2022. This success isn’t surprising, given the book’s unique approach to leadership and personal development.
Content and Structure:
The heart of the book lies in Shkedy’s collection of over a hundred inspiring life stories and lessons on leadership, success, and excellence. Rather than presenting abstract theories, Shkedy grounds his insights in real-world experiences from his military career and personal life. Each story serves as a building block in what he calls his “uncompromising code for achieving greatness.”
Writing Style:
Shkedy’s writing style is refreshingly direct and unvarnished. He writes with the clarity of a military commander but maintains accessibility through personal anecdotes and practical examples. The narrative flows naturally between strategic insights and intimate revelations, creating a reading experience that feels more like a mentorship than a lecture.
Strengths:
- Authenticity: The lessons come from real-world experience rather than theoretical frameworks
- Practical Application: Many of the stories are accompanied by actionable takeaways
- Cultural Impact: The book’s success in military circles demonstrates its practical value
- Universal Appeal: While rooted in military experience, the principles apply broadly to leadership in any field
Final Verdict:
“Who The F*ck Is Michael?!” is more than just another leadership book – it’s a raw, honest, and deeply practical guide to personal and professional excellence. Shkedy’s unique perspective as a military leader, combined with his ability to distill complex situations into actionable wisdom, makes this book stand out in the crowded leadership genre.
The book is particularly valuable for:
- Emerging leaders seeking practical guidance
- Military personnel and veterans
- Anyone interested in Israeli leadership principles
- Professionals looking for unvarnished advice on excellence
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
This book proves that sometimes the most valuable leadership lessons come from those who have led in the most challenging circumstances. While it may not follow the conventional format of leadership literature, its authenticity and practical wisdom make it a worthy addition to any leader’s library.
Garth Thomas