The Wise Men
by Walter Isaacson and Evan Thomas
Six friends who shaped postwar American foreign policy, Acheson, Bohlen, Harriman, Kennan, Lovett and McCloy. A study of friendship, establishment and decision-making at scale.
Read it if…
you want how a generation of leaders was formed and worked together.
See the book →
Skip it if…
you want a short read; it is long.
Try instead: Matterhorn →
Three things you will actually use
- Networks shape decisions.
- Prepare for decades.
- Institutions outlive individuals.
Do this first
Read the chapters on the Marshall Plan.
Our verdict
Six friends who shaped the world.
See the book →
Compare with other Leadership books

The Power of Positive Leadership
Jon Gordon · Leadership
Upbeat and approachable; a first leadership book, not a last one.
CLICK TO SEE
First, Break All the Rules
Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman · Leadership
The original data-backed management book; still the one to read first.
CLICK TO SEEBrowse all Leadership book reviews or get the free Reality Code Cheat Sheet.
As an Amazon Associate, WisdomDeck earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked “Click to see” go to Amazon. We are not paid for opinions, prices and availability are not shown here and change on Amazon, and we never see your purchase details. Nothing here is medical, legal or financial advice.

