Shoemaker Book Reviews

“Coming away I was awestruck by the narrative that explores the company’s humble beginnings, struggles and eventual triumph in the competitive footwear industry”

“Just finished your book while on vacation in the south of France and my childhood neighbourhood (3km from Angeles). Great mentality and courageous decisions. I will take some of your advise into my own company for sure. Thank you for sharing”
Jean-Phillipe

“I’ve just finished Shoemaker and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it. I’ve read many books on business and leadership over the years, but this is certainly one of the best. As a senior leader, working alongside my brother, so much of the book resonated with me - we both place importance on people and so little things like knowing everyone’s name really made me smile. It’s striking how proud you are to be a Bostonian and, as one myself, I hope you know how proud the town is to have Reebok as part of it’s history. Thank You.”
Robin

“The Shoemaker book is fantastic. Thanks a lot sir for sharing your wisdom with us,”
Radi

“I want to thank you for inspiring book I’m enjoying whilst on my holidays. My father has been in the footwear industry since I was born and I made my way in it throughout the last 20 years. You inspire us all sir. Particularly at times when Covid makes everything seem so impossible or make you want to give up. My father used to get me Reebok pumps from his Asia travels back in the day when those models didn’t reach rural Spain in the late 80’s so your brand inspired me then to become a shoe designer and your book inspires me to today.
Hector

“What a book!. Yesterday, in a Sunday evening overseeing the Düssel river as the sunset was taking shape, I went through the last few chapters of this work. The intensity of the words and learnings share are absolutely astonishing. Unforgettable. One of the best books I had the chance to put my hands on and definitely my #1. Thank you Mr Foster for sharing your memories with the world. You are truly and inspiring individual.”

“I have thoroughly enjoyed your fabulous book. Big thanks for taking the time in putting it together, it’s a truly inspiring story! More people shovel know the story of Reebok and it’s English roots”
James

“I know this is a bit cheesy but I just wanted to write and say thank you for writing Shoemaker. Your book is brilliant, fun, insightful and comforting to read for someone who is working in ‘interesting times’!.”
Michael

“I just read your book. What a great story, you must be super proud of what you’ve achieved. Very inspiring”
Dan

“Absolutely loving it so far and starting chapter 7 tomorrow.”
Niraj

“I have a signed copy and I love this book. I’ve read it 3 times! I have a 14 month old baby boy, I’ve just ordered a signed copy for him that I’m going to put away until he’s old nought to appreciate the value of owning a signed copy”

“I have just finished your book. What a brilliant read it was and it won’t be the last time I ready it. I own a European logistics company and as you can imagine it’s been a trying few months. Your book has helped me immensely to remain positive. I really want to thank you as your nook as influenced my attitude, decision making and even my outlook on the business.”
Tom

“Thank you again for a great book. I have and will continue to recommend as one of the best business nooks I have read.”

“I just finished Shoemaker, a fabulous read. Very motivating book. Thank for publishing it!”
Vinnie

“May I say how inspiring your book was to me. As a (relatively) young lad growing up in Lancashire and moving to London, your book inspired me to strive for more. Most of my family are on benefits, I’ve always felt like I’m aspiring for too much, your book made me feel like I belong here as long as I put the effort in. Lancashire lads like you are few and far between, the exception to the rule, but hey matter a great deal. All I’d like to say is thank you for showing we can be more, we can do a lot if we put our minds to it. Most of us don’t believe it, but I do. You showed me.”
Chris

“I just wanted to touch base with you after having just finished reading your book. I am not normally a big reader and have been known to take months to normally get through a book. However, I managed to get through yours in less a week!. All the best for your journey and I take my hat off for what you have managed to achieve.”
Hamish

The honest story of hard work, determination and a vision!!
Thank you Joe Foster for sharing with us, as someone once said to me...
It takes 30 years to be an overnight success!!!
Figsy21 (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Amazing Book! A real world business memoir with heart
I LOVED this book. A true memoir on what it takes to build a premier global brand. I love how Joe approaches this with a rawness and a humility that makes his journey impressive and his character relatable.
He shares real world practical insight on how to grow and run a business that an entrepreneur easily can apply to their own business.
He weaves heart into his story by sharing the struggles, the setbacks, the impact familial relationships and the true global impact Reebok has made.
I remember interviewing Joe on my podcast and he shared some of my favourite business advice I have received to date: that there are 3 things that he recommends people focus on in business. 1) Fun, 2) Fun, 3) Fun!
A fantastic read. Highly recommend!
Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Brilliant and Inspiring - a must read!
A relatable story of an 'ordinary' guy who created a sporting giant. I don't normally go in for business books but this is genuinely inspiring and gripping, it is easily relatable and is a real page-turner. Thoroughly recommended!
Amazon 5*

Fantastic, inspirational book
Being from Bolton it's always a pleasure to read about the triumphs of a fellow Boltonian. Founding and growing one of the world's most recognised brands isn't something many people can tell the story of. From humble beginnings Joe gives a warts and all view of the real world of business, achieving success through determination and a relentless positive attitude to succeed. A great read and highly recommended.
James - (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

An excellent and thrilling read!
One of Britain's best untold stories now finally told. How a boy from Bolton started and built what became the no 1 sports brand in the world…
Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A rollercoaster ride
As a Boltonian myself, I grew up with a pride that Reebok was Bolton born and bred and put the modern day Bolton on the world stage with its amazing success. Much the same as the Bolton of the past had been a key player in the industrial revolution. So, you might think "how can a book about making shoes be so interesting?" Well, it's a story of adversity, intense drive and belief, and also a great deal of luck and being in the right place at the right time. Any budding entrepreneur could gain a lot of insight and direction from reading this book. As a layman with no business interests, I just found it a really good read. Maybe some entrepreneur could make a film of this 'story'. Well, if they can make a film about Steve Jobs, there's no reason why not. Different industries but the same vision and drive.
Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I read it cover to cover in one sitting
I read SHOEMAKER, cover to cover, in one sitting - something I haven't done for decades. If you want a business book to inspire you then this is a must read.
It is extremely easy to read and a fascinating story. Joe is almost brutally honest about his business, his family, and how they changed his life. When he finally stood down, Reebok was bigger than Adidas and Nike. How many Brits have created the largest company in the world in their sector?
Ian (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Inspirational account
Easy to read and heartwarming life story
Hayley (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

A Reebok Classic
I've worn Reebok's as a young casual from 1983 to the present day and so it was a must for me to get this book. A great read and an eye opener into this great English trainer company. I can highly recommend this to buy!….
Daniel (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Excellent read and very insightful
I was honoured to receive my signed copy of this book and from the very first page I began to extract value. An insightful, applicable and very digestible read, I got just as much joy as a sporting enthusiast, as I did from an entrepreneurial perspective. I'd recommend to anyone with a keen passion for the world of sporting brands, business, marketing and influencers. Top stuff
James (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Excellent read
To me, Reebok seemed to burst onto the scene from nowhere, and at the time I presumed it was a fashion brand from the US!
I had no idea it was a brand developed just ten miles away from where I live!
This book is a fascinating read, truly portraying what it takes to make it in a competitive international market.
It's not just about building a business, the book takes you back to a world so different from the one we know today, where a business was built from hardship, drive, and determination.
This book brings to life the personal, inner journey Joe went through to bring us one of the most iconic and recognised brands of our time.
Gentle and not sensationalist like similar books of this genre.
Anna (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

A true symbol of British determination and resilience
A wonderful book, deftly written, encompassing strong historical context, personal family stories and true entrepreneurial grit, commerciality and determination. A must for any real fan of footwear, sports wear or business.
Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Honest and compelling. This is a must read business book!
I love this book! It is so rich with business lessons subtly interweaved into a wonderful and charmingly honest account of Joe's life and how he and his brother built the super-brand that Reebok became.
Throughout the book there are personal retrospective accounts of when Joe learnt lessons and why he believes he made decisions based on past life experiences. It is motivational, yet modest, there is humour throughout and also stories of sad family tragedies.
Joe talks about the importance of persistence, decision making, branding and luck and honourably pays wonderful tribute to everyone that helped along the way.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, learning more about the inspiring life of Joe Foster and the creation of Reebok, the fastest growing business in the history of America. It is a must read.
Nina (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Excellent read
An intriguing read with a real mix of guts, emotion and an entrepreneurial mindset. I lived the Reebok journey through the 90's and it was fascinating to revisit this from the inside
Chris (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Essential reading for entrepreneurs
If you like the classic rags to riches story - then Shoemaker delivers in spades! It takes the story of Reebok from a start up to a global brand, honestly charting the company's highs and lows. I sat and read the whole book in one sitting - it was gripping, insightful and packed full of business know how. I totally recommend it.
Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Inspiring
Brilliant insight into a normal family business who created an extraordinary global business.I thought Reebok was from USA and was amazed that this was actually a UK created brand. Also very touching and inspirational human journey and just an all round great read. If you are in business or not this won't disappoint and well worth adding to summer reading list.
Tony (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

A great read - recommended whether or not you normally enjoy business books.
Both my wife and I found this a very enjoyable read and definitely not your average business book - much more interesting and shows how much hard work and sacrifice is involved in starting a successful business. Recommended.
Jyloox (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Wonderful story
This book is a great read. The world sees success but in reality growing a business to the scale like Joe reached with Reebok means you make sacrifices, incredible sacrifices. I loved the early days when Joe was a child, Joes relationship with his father reminded me of mine, in many ways Joes father was probably normal and like most fathers of the time. In many ways the drive comes from a chip on your shoulder and this is where his father contributed to Joes ambition, drive and success. If I was to describe Joe in one word it would be relentless. Fair play and well done.
David (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Couldn’t put it down
A fantastic read from start to finish. An authentic and honest tale. Read from cover to cover in 2 days as I couldn't put it down. Joe goes into detail about the ups and the downs of his trials and tribulations. The meteoric rise of Reebok is one that I hadn't appreciated until I read this book. Would recommend to anyone.
Mr O’Connell (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Brilliant
A brilliant story of one of the biggest and most well known sports brands in the world.
Jack - (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Fantastic book, true British grit and determination
I loved every page of this book, it's easy to look at an established brand and think 'it's ok for them' this gives an insight into how difficult it was to build the brand globally.
The number of almost failings and the true determination of one person to fulfil his vision. Highly recommended
Emma (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Must read business book
Most of the business books l've read are from US entrepreneurs and reality star winners.
Shoe Maker was a lovely surprise. I purchased this because I grew up wearing Reebok trainers
It's an important book to read on so many levels.
There's no over the top drama and no salacious scandal, it's about how to run a business, grow a business, deal with tragedy, take care of family and make a difference.
Shoe Maker is the most important book l've read in 2021 so far. Well done to Jos Foster, co-founder of Reebok for writing this.
Niraj (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Amazing book
This book is a great read for everyone from all walks of life. It's a story about having the drive and determination to make your dreams become reality regardless of what you may come up against. It is motivational and inspirational for the aspiring entrepreneur or intrepreneur in all of us.
S.G (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

A brilliant read about a great British brand
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book about the humble beginnings of a Northern English company and its transformation into a leading global brand. If you have an interest in running, business, or marketing. You'll love this book.
Clare (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

That is a true and honest story of success
Being born and brought up in the same town, and living all my life in the same area as Joe, (Bolton/Bury), and knowing his younger brother, added a special interest to this down to earth excellent written book! Well done Joe, and good luck for the future! Ill look out for you walking the dog!
Brian (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Thanks for sharing this remarkable journey with us Joe this remarkable journey with us Joe
Shada (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

I loved this book
What an unbelievable book. What an unbelievable life! Joe Foster is an absolute legend and his journey building Reebok is captivating. I absolutely loved it!!
Scott (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Outstanding
WOWZER!!!
This is a powerful book that all entrepreneurs, especially the big dreamers, should definitely read. A gripping story that is a page turner. Even knowing the ending that Reebok reaches massive success, Joe Foster keeps you on the edge of your seat. The sheer passion & relentless determination shown to build Reebok is tremendously inspiring.
Congrats to Joe on fulfilling his life dream and a huge thank you on taking us on the journey. Well done Joe!!
Curt (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Reading this book gives you a newfound respect for Joe Foster and Reebok
This is a very good read for any entrepreneur or someone who wants to engulf themselves in what it means to work hard to build a brand. Reebok is not as celebrated as Nike but it still remains a global brand. Please pick up this book to discover the rich history and trials and tribulations of what it took to build the name of reebok. A very good read I feel everyone can take something from.
Dave (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Written like a Hollywood script
The book is really good for those who want to learn about entrepreneurship. What is old again, is new again. He did 3 5 Star reviews with Runners World. And then distribution and then Jane Fonda wore the shoes. From 9 Million to 900 Million in 4 years. A great story.
Colin (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

An amazing story
Very authentic and motivating story! Great book to read, and to get inspired!
Anusch (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Incredible story for any business owner
Great book and I enjoyed learning from his ups and downs that it takes to be a successful business.
Jack (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

A must read
An inspirational book about what it's like to grow an international brand from the ground up.
Iamdbv (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Inspirational book
This book is a must read. It's not just about success, it's a classic example of what hard work and belief achieves. It's about looking outside the box to search for opportunities. One word.... INSPIRATIONAL
Richard (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Very interesting read
What an interesting and inspirational tale. Firstly Joe's vision never dimmed despite setbacks and many bumps in the road. Then the energy he had to make things happen was extraordinary. I enjoyed reading this book from the very first page and didn't want to put it down!
Clifton (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Brilliant read
Started to read this book and couldn't put it down, finished it at 4.30am! Even though you know Reebok is a multinational brand the way in which the book is written keeps you in suspense wondering when the breakthrough will happen.
Gill (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)

Engaging and inspiring read - A really well written insight into this huge brand
A huge household name, with humble beginnings far from what you see now.
This is a well written story that really takes you on the journey of the Reebok brand, bringing insights to the little known story of this English brand.
AGL (Amazon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)