We all know an entrepreneur when we see one. This ground-breaking book reviews more than a hundred entrepreneurs from all walks of life and backgrounds, and sets their stories within a rigorous analytical framework, in order to give a critical insight into: * What entrepreneurs do and achieve * How they go about it * How they could be better supported The key point though is whether there are more people out there with the potential to be successful entrepreneurs, and, if so, how they might be identified and fostered. This book opens up this subject using for the first time the themes of talent, temperament and technique, which, in the correct mix, produce outstanding entrepreneurs. Using the ideas presented, it should be possible to tap more effectively the well of entrepreneurial talent that the authors identify. The release of this entrepreneurial talent could transform the numerous programmes for promoting business start-up and growth. It is the missing ingredient in many of these initiatives. Entrepreneurs: Talent, Temperament, Technique is therefore ideal for both students and those with a non-academic background who have a keen interest in business start-up and growth. Case studies include: James Dyson, Charles Dunstone (CarPhone Warehouse), Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream, Brian Souter (Stagecoach), Archie Norman (Asda), Paul Sykes, Steve Jobs (Apple), Warren Buffet, David Rhodes (Filtronic), Ricardo Semler, Elliott Tepper (Betel), Julian Richer, Walt Disney, Cameron Mackintosh, Jeff Bezos (Amazon.com), Herb Kelleher (SouthWest Air), Bernie Ecclestone, Mark McCormack, John de Lorean, Mozart and Al Capone.

'This is an absorbing and illuminating read. Through hundreds of real life examples and case histories from every imaginable type of entrepreneur we can understand the talent, temperament and technique involved. Entrepreneurs are irrepressible and jump over fences most people would refuse.' Tony Robinson, Chief Executive, Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative. 'This is the most comprehensive treatment of the entrepreneur on the market. It is a must for all potential entrepreneurs and for those involved in Government and academic programmes with responsibility for identifying, nurturing and developing the growing pool of entrepreneurial talent.' Dr Pat Frain, Director, University Industry Programme, University College Dublin. Written by two academics specialising in entreprenaurial and enterprise themes, at first this tome can appear a little heavy and textbook-like. But dig deeper and you find an illuminating account of what makes entrepreneurs tick and why some are more successful than others. Through their studies on enterprising behaviour and profiles of famous entrepreneurs - including some surprising choices - the duo explain that the right temperament and abilities are not enough if you do not have the techniques to exploit the resources. A great choice for those thinking about being more entrepreneurial or wanting to refine their approach. Business Bookworm - Enterprise - Nove/Dec 2000

Bill Bolton is the author of many books on technical subjects for students at schools and colleges. During his career Bill has: taught in Further Education; been a team member of the Nuffield Advanced Physics Project; worked overseas for Unesco; was Head of Research, Development and Monitoring at BTEC; and has been a consultant to a number of projects concerned with Further Education.