General Naravane has written a simple and heart-warming account of his life and times and the experiences that shaped his character, right from childhood to his years in the service, rising through the hierarchy to become the twenty-eighth Chief of the Indian Army. The book sheds light on the workings of the Army, its culture and ethos that make it the finest army in the world. Even those with no background of the Services would be immediately drawn into the narrative, especially the parts that deal with the planning and conduct of operations, which is the raison d’ ê tre of the Army. It also covers many aspects for those interested in matters military, ranging from the decision-making apparatus at various echelons of the government to what needs to be done to make not just the Army, but the Armed Forces as a whole, a more potent instrument of national power, ready to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. Through his experiences, the author also shares many lessons on leadership and management that have universal applicability, be it in industry or academia. He also highlights the inner strength and resilience required to overcome adversity, and the importance of family and maintaining a work– life balance, something that has been ignored in today’ s 24x7 work culture. More than anything else, it is an inspiration for all that ‘ nice guys don’ t always finish last’ , but that through a dedicated and principled approach, everyone can reach the pinnacle of their respective organizations.General Naravane has written a simple and heart-warming account of his life and times and the experiences that shaped his character, right from childhood to his years in the service, rising through the hierarchy to become the twenty-eighth Chief of the Indian Army. The book sheds light on the workings of the Army, its culture and ethos that make it the finest army in the world. Even those with no background of the Services would be immediately drawn into the narrative, especially the parts that deal with the planning and conduct of operations, which is the raison d’ ê tre of the Army. It also covers many aspects for those interested in matters military, ranging from the decision-making apparatus at various echelons of the government to what needs to be done to make not just the Army, but the Armed Forces as a whole, a more potent instrument of national power, ready to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. Through his experiences, the author also shares many lessons on leadership and management that have universal applicability, be it in industry or academia. He also highlights the inner strength and resilience required to overcome adversity, and the importance of family and maintaining a work– life balance, something that has been ignored in today’ s 24x7 work culture. More than anything else, it is an inspiration for all that ‘ nice guys don’ t always finish last’ , but that through a dedicated and principled approach, everyone can reach the pinnacle of their respective organizations.