Shoe Dog

by Phil Knight
Shoe Dog cover
Good Books rating 4.75
Biography and Memoir
Technical:
  • ID: 1816
  • Added: 2025-10-10
  • Updated: 2025-10-10
  • ISBN: 9781471146732
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2016-04-26
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99

Shoe Dog is the candid and inspiring memoir of Phil Knight, the founder of Nike. Starting with just $50 borrowed from his father, Knight's journey from selling shoes out of his car to building a global brand is filled with risks, setbacks, and triumphs. The book offers a raw and honest look at the early days of Nike, highlighting the power of a shared mission and the spirit of sport. Knight's storytelling is infused with humor and hard-won wisdom, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in entrepreneurship and the birth of a legendary company. /n/n Beyond the business narrative, Shoe Dog delves into the personal and professional challenges Knight faced, including the tight-knit bond he formed with his early team. The memoir is not just about building a brand but also about overcoming adversity and leaving a lasting mark on the world. Knight's reflections on his journey provide valuable insights into the mindset and strategies that led to Nike's success, making it a must-read for aspiring entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts alike.

Reviews
Medium · 2025-04-24
moving 4.75

The book is a deeply personal and vulnerable story that offers a unique perspective on the creation of an iconic brand. It's a moving account that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.

The reviewer on Medium was struck by the profound personal and vulnerable narrative that Phil Knight presents in his memoir. They found the story to be refreshingly honest and deeply moving, highlighting the emotional journey behind the creation of Nike. The reviewer appreciated the raw and unfiltered perspective, which made the book a compelling read. The memoir's ability to evoke strong emotions and provide insight into the personal struggles and triumphs of the creator makes it a standout in the genre of business memoirs.

Quick quotes

    A profoundly personal, vulnerable, and refreshingly honest story about creating one of the most iconic brands in the world.

    This book moved me to tears.

    It's a deeply personal and vulnerable story that offers a unique perspective on the creation of an iconic brand.

Solopreneur Grind · 2024-04-24
inspiring 5.00

The book is highly recommended for its inspiring journey and entrepreneurial insights. It stands out as one of the best reads in recent years.

This reviewer found Shoe Dog to be an incredibly inspiring read, especially for anyone interested in entrepreneurship. They appreciate the raw and honest portrayal of Phil Knight's journey, highlighting the risks and triumphs that come with building a successful brand. The book is praised for its engaging storytelling and the valuable lessons it offers about perseverance and innovation. They believe it's a must-read not just for entrepreneurs but for anyone looking for motivation and insight into the business world.

Quick quotes

    It's become one of my favourite books from the last few years

    Phil Knight's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation

    The book is a must-read for anyone looking for inspiration and insight into the business world

Accidentally Retired · 2021-09-24
engaging 4.75

The book is praised for its storytelling and the immersive experience it provides. It's considered a great read for its engaging narrative.

This reviewer found Shoe Dog to be another great book, written in a first-person storytelling manner that makes the reader feel immersed in Phil Knight's journey. They appreciate the raw and honest portrayal of the challenges and triumphs that Knight faced while building Nike. The reviewer believes the book offers valuable insights into the entrepreneurial mindset and the determination required to achieve success. They highly recommend it for its engaging narrative and the lessons it offers.

Quick quotes

    Another great book!

    Written in a first-person storytelling manner, so much so, that you became so immersed in the journey

    It offers valuable insights into the entrepreneurial mindset

The Wealth Conservancy · 2021-04-15
fascinating 4.50

The book is recommended for its universal appeal and engaging narrative structure. Each chapter offers a concise recap of a year in Phil Knight's journey.

This reviewer highly recommends Shoe Dog, not just for runners or sports fans but for everyone. They appreciate the book's engaging narrative structure, with each chapter recapping a year in Phil Knight's journey. The reviewer finds the memoir to be a fascinating account of the birth of Nike, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way. They believe the book offers valuable insights into the entrepreneurial spirit and the determination required to build a successful brand.

Quick quotes

    This is a book I highly recommend, and not just for runners or sports fans or entrepreneurs. It's for everyone!

    Each chapter is a recap of a year

    It's a fascinating account of the birth of Nike

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