As I See It: The Autobiography of J. Paul Getty

Awesome book, of course you have to consider that the book is written by the author (so things come from Getty's perspective...), but he explains the strongest detractor's statements quite well. For example, when he refused to pay the ransom demands for his grandson... the press blasted him for being a cheap bastard, but Getty explains that if he had paid (right away), all his family would have been in jeopardy to kidnappers. Very human side to an extremely successful man's life. I feel like I owe "Paul" a thank-you, I have visited the Getty museums many many times, and Getty explains in detail how the museum (Malibu) came about and why he did it. My understanding that Getty passed away a few years (?) after this book was published.Extremely relevant for the current times, Getty basically says that capitalism (and the United States) is doomed if the US governments spending spree (and national debt) continues.... Getty basically said that what is wrong with the US is that too many politicians spend/waste money without proper planning / budgeting / accountability. Far too many free-loaders, and unnecessary government spending. If your a 'left-wing' liberal, you will defiantly not like Getty's politics, but Getty has the courage to say it clearly.The book was a surprise, I was only expecting to get storys of business success, and got that plus human insight, clear-thinking politics and more understanding of world economics (from the master economist).

I practically wish someone had made me read this book before I entered high school. If I had read the book at that time I imagine I'd have been much sharper to the ways of the world, particularly when it comes to people. The author demonstrates some personality traits I find unappealing, and yet in many ways I relate to his philosophy of life. A stouthearted fellow of his sort seems a rare specimen in this day and age.

Easy read about an icon of "family business great". J Paul's candid insight from childhood to couple yrs before his death is good reading regarding his skill of building business relationships and making land/oil deals. Having worked in oil areas, I found it very interesting history, especially Oklahoma and Saudi Arabia.

I felt kind of lame after reading this book, Getty really lived a full life. Reading the book, you feel like you're having a conversation with him about his life and what's on his mind. He seems very down to earth.This isn't necessarily a quick read business how-to book though you learn a lot by reading it. You get his life story that includes details on his family, friends, business associates, charity work and art. You also get interesting stories about the famous people he knew, eg his friend the Duke of Windsor that met with Hitler trying to avert WWII. Also there are chapters lovingly discussing his parents, children, and even his 5 ex-wives. He also defends his reputation for being cheap, eg payphone in his mansion. You really get inside his head by reading this book. My favorite chapter is his random thoughts chapter he wrote on Thanksgiving day, less than a year before he died 1976.

I live in Minneapolis and I did not know J Paul Getty was born in here in 1892. The elementary school he went to are still in here.Amazing book! This is a must read book! He touched the whole life stories from growing up in Minneapolis, started oil business with his Dad, his love of cars and women, all his 6 wives, all his 5 sons from various wives, his foundations, his view toward "men vs women", his desire for "chasing the best" beyond money, and his last moment thoughts of his life. After he finished this book, he passed away less than a year.

I have a 94 year old friend who knew Paul Getty. It was great to contrast what she had to say against what he said. Also, the movie they put out about the kidnapping is all bunk. Paul is very eloquent in his writing. If you want an very interesting read about a hard working man who becomes a billionaire, you will love this.

Increíble

Das Buch ist sehr gut geschrieben worden, enthält alle Details zum Privatleben von einem der reichsten Menschen vor der Digitalzeit, John Paul Getty (II). Allerdings ist das Buch auf Englisch geschrieben, und ist nur für gute Englischsprecher empfehlenswert. Absolut geeignet für Referate, Komplexe Leistungen oder einfach nur für Interessierte, die etwas weiter denken als einfach nur ein Angestellter im Leben zu sein.Allein der Inhalt ist somit 3 Sterne Wert.Einen weiteren Stern bekommt das Buch für das Material, welches durchaus angemessen ist für ein Buch mit mehreren hundert Seiten.Den 5. Stern gibt es für die durchaus schnelle Lieferung eines Buches, welches normalerweise nur in den USA verfügbar ist.

A brilliant present

All should read.

This was advertised a hardback and was expensive.It is NOT a hard backed book.This is disappointing.