FORD TOUGH

Chris Ryan’s narrating skill--wry, intriguing, and elevating--is applied here to an unusually good story about the nip-and-tuck efforts of the Ford family to keep their auto brand on solid ground in the midst of unprecedented threats to their business. It’s a miracle that any Fords are still involved, let alone thriving, as Bill Ford is at the helm of the company. He’s a controversial and visible captain of a sometimes foundering ship, but one whose history suggests more altruism than ego. He’s genuinely connected with the muscle and sinew of the company. A wistful, insightful tale, Bill Ford’s story is also an overview of how U.S. businesses have been challenged by globalization and the computer age. T.W. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE/JULY 05]