I liked this book. I was afraid it would be just a boring book of praise for a former and current boss, but the truth is it is a fascinating look at the Dutch immigrant experience and also a kind of thumbnail summary/history of America in the twentieth century. Fred Meijer is a first-generation American, who worked shoulder to shoulder with his hard-working immigrant father to found one of the most successful family-owned businesses in America. Meijer, Inc. The real charm of this book, however, is Fred himself, a friendly, curious, and always modest man who believes more than anything else in treating people with dignity, a lesson learned from his father, Hendrik. The book is co-authored by a former Meijer executive (Smith) and the current historian (ten Harmsel) for Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. Larry ten Harmsel is also a former Dean at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo and a recognized authority on the Dutch experience in Michigan. So okay, maybe they worked for Fred, but there is no question that both authors have a very real admiration and affection for the guy, and it comes through in the book. More than a hundred different people were interviewed to put this book together - lots of former employees, some faithful customers, family friends, statesmen, politicians, you name it, they're all in here. And they all like Fred Meijer. And it's no wonder. Although Fred denies being a billionaire, he has given back millions to Grand Rapids and the surrounding area over the years. Nearly ninety now, he continues to be active in community affairs. He credits his success with treating other folks fairly. Simple as that. It sounds a lot like that second commandment: "Love thy neighbor as thyself." The narrative flows smoothly, even with all the quotes and bits and pieces of U.S. history interleaved throughout. Fred and his wife Lena have lived through most of twentieth century history, and have tried throughout their ninety years to "do the right thing." So okay, this might not be great literature, but it's a good story about a good man. Yeah, I liked this book. ( )