Legendary Leadership Lessons: The Reading Pig (Legendary / Stories Lessons)

Hilarious story telling and insightful reflections on the leadership lessons one can learn

Nick Clement has done it again in his second book of a series about leadership lessons from ordinary life. As a master story teller, Nick recalls tales from his youth as a Boy Scout leader at a camp in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Not sure he wanted the job in the first place, he soon found that he had the duty to clean out the latrines. This hilarious scene plays out in front of the entire camp as Nick not only cleans the outhouse, but he also makes it a memorable experience for all. Nick understands that essential leadership principles can be honed at an early age. Defining moments can arise when you have a nasty duty to perform. These are times to put your pride on the line and use the opportunity to build morale and trust. The level of dedication required to be a successful school leader starts with fundamental obligations that are learned long before one reaches the position of teacher or principal or superintendent.The Reading Pig is full of endearing stories of life in schools, including accounts of other legendary leaders in Arizona education. Nick even reminiscences in detail about getting a root amputation by his favorite dentist and the lessons he learned about amazing customer service. You’ll find a wide variety of entertaining accounts of everyday interactions that are spun with down home humor. And yet, the most fundamental truths are revealed from ordinary messages that parents pass along to their children. One such time, Nick had mononucleosis and insisted that he was invaluable in his role as camp leader. His mother told him, “Son when you think you are irreplaceable, it’s time you were replaced.” This is a profound leadership lesson that all school leaders should heed.Dr. Nicolas Clement’s reputation as a leader and a story teller is legendary. He is the Ernest W. McFarland Citizen’s Chair in Education and an endowed Professor of Practice at Northern Arizona University. His previous book, “Legendary Teacher Stories… How to Catch a Swamp Frog” is a must read for all current and future teachers. In an effort to keep paying it forward, he donates the net proceeds of from his books to an organization that provides grants to teachers. Pick up The Reading Pig because it is entertaining and thought provoking. Consider following the advice, because it is written by a respected leader who knows how to “walk the talk”.

Fun and frolic! The Author, 'Nic' takes you on a virtual bobsled ride through his trials and tribulations of being a leader. In the first chapter, he leads out with his signature statement.... "How big is your marching band?" He has some very specific and tenable thoughts that the livelihood of a high school is directly impacted by the size of their marching band. When you get to the second chapter, you'll be introduced to the 'Reading Pig'. No spoiler alert here.... grab a copy and settle in. My second grade class was never this fun.This is the second book for the Author - "Legendary Leadership Lessons - The Reading Pig", His first book - "Legendary Teacher Stories - How to catch a swamp frog", is no less entertaining and uplifting. In both writings, he speaks to the challenges of Teaching and leading, and how to be the best at each. Well done!

Dr. Clement demonstrates his gift to draw you into his stories with laugh out loud humor. Once you start reading the Legendary Leadership Lessons – The Reading Pig, you quickly read the chapter, appreciate the recap and have the need to finish the book. Dr. Clement captures the importance of having passion for what you do on a daily basis while transforming passion into building strong relationships. A must read for all industries.Karen KingTraining DirectorTucson Electrical Apprenticeship & Training