Description
Book SynopsisThe Monkey and the Maize is an allegorical tale that teaches core lifetime and business management principles through the life story of a monkey named Pete. As a young monkey growing up on the safe side of The Hedge, Pete longs for adventure, fame, and fortune, eventually leaving the security of his home to explore new horizons. Along the way, Pete becomes a husband, a father, and a business leader. New communities, characters and experiences present opportunities to learn management and life skills. Pete eventually reaches The City and is tasked with managing the critical shortage ofThe City’s primary resource. Pete is sent on a risky journey to find more resources and uncovers impending catastrophe heading toward his home community and The City. All of Pete’s leadership skills are tested as he races to save his family, his community, and even his foes from certain destruction.
The Monkey and the Maize is a fictional story with core messages about leadership, management, community and integrity that span multiple life roles – from a young couple learning how to be good parents to a first-time manager learning how to lead to a corporate CEO who wants to continue to grow. The five roots of life – Faith, Family, Fellowship, Food [Work], and Forgiveness – are woven throughout this tale providing its firm foundation.
Trade ReviewMr. Marble hasn't just penned another book on leadership.At the core, he brilliantly describes a journey that is both relatable yet inspiring.
The Monkey and the Maize will create a moment of self-reflection and awareness for its readers by being real, not superficially didactic.”
—Dave Kipe, Chief Operating Officer
“All leaders create a personal journey as they navigate their work experiences throughout their lives. Mr. Marble's book The Monkey and The Maize challenges the reader to not only reflect on their personal journey, but to compartmentalize the lessons they have learned along the way. As a female leader, this book also pushed me to acknowledge the traits I value and respect and hopefully model in my organization through my words and actions.”
—Dr. Gretchen Guitard, Superintendent/College Professor“
My friend Steve Marble is the most deliberately contemplative corporate leader I know, and I’m truly thankful he has distilled his decades of lessons learned into this extended leadership parable. Readers will be encouraged and inspired to imitate Steve’s disciplines of daily pursuing wisdom, making relationships central, embracing rigorous work and hard decisions, and keeping a sense of wonder along the way.”
—Colonel Eric R Bents, USAF (Ret)
“The Monkey and the Maize will bring out the emotion of each reader in a different way.The simplicity allows the reader to illustrate images in their mind of the adventures of Pete the monkey.This book is an invaluable resource on leadership and servanthood.I loved every word of it.”
—Michelle Clark, Site Leader
“Mr. Marble’s book is magnificent, encapsulating the principles of knowledge, experience and fortitude, the fundamental foundation of western civilization throughout the ages. Paralleling Greek philosophy, his reflections teach readers the value of knowing thyself and being of sound mind and body as they encounter adversity and success. Most importantly, we find that foundation is based upon faith, family and friends.”
—Jerry Westbrook, Dean of Students, Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs, Professor of Education, Director Career Planning & Placement (retired) (University of Mississippi, University of Arkansas, University of Chicago, and Southeast Missouri State University)
