Winning: The Unforgiving Race to Greatness

Personal trainer Grover (Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable) dazzles with his tough-love take on reaching greatness, bluntly advising there are no shortcuts to success: "I know it's common in books like this for the ‘experts' to give you ‘steps'," but "you can't buy a map to the top." Instead, he offers his "winning 13" principles, which include "waging war in the battlefield" of one's mind, embracing difference, and learning that "winning is a test with no correct answers." He pushes back hard on business-school aphorisms, asking why resting is often considered lazy and wondering how being overworked became a symbol of dedication. Grover also warns against blaming others ("Be your own WTF Department," he suggests), urges readers to hold themselves accountable, and frequently references his high-achieving clients, including Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, as evidence that his perspective on hard work pays off. The plain-talking tips won't work for everyone, and those used to advice delivered with a spoonful of sugar will likely find this harsh. Still, those looking for a take-no-prisoners approach to self-improvement will find Grover's philosophy inspiring. Agent: Shari Wenk, the SLW Agency. (May)