In 'To Pixar and Beyond', Lawrence Levy reveals the extraordinary journey of Pixar Animation Studios, showcasing how creativity and business acumen intertwined to create a cultural phenomenon. He navigates the challenges faced by Pixar and offers an insider's perspective on the high-stakes decisions that transformed animated storytelling forever. Levy’s narrative not only illuminates the magic of animation but also provides valuable insights into leadership and innovation. As he reflects on his time as Pixar's CFO, readers are invited to explore the fine line between risk and reward in the world of creativity. This compelling memoir will leave you questioning what it takes to turn dreams into reality.
By Lawrence Levy
Published: 2017
"In the journey from dreams to reality, the courage to innovate becomes the true magic behind every success."
"Lovely and surprising . . . This delightful book is about finance, creative genius, workplace harmony, and luck."--Fortune "Enchanting,"--New York Times "I love this book I think it is brilliant."--Ed Catmull, cofounder and president of Pixar Animation, president of Disney Animation, and coauthor of the bestseller Creativity Inc. The revelatory saga of Pixar's rocky start and improbable success After Steve Jobs was dismissed from Apple in the early 1990s, he turned his attention to a little-known graphics company he owned called Pixar. One day, out of the blue, Jobs called Lawrence Levy, a Harvard-trained lawyer and executive to whom he had never spoken before. He hoped to persuade Levy to help him pull Pixar back from the brink of failure. This is the extraordinary story of what happened next: how Jobs and Levy concocted and pulled off a highly improbable plan that transformed Pixar into one of Hollywood's greatest success stories. Levy offers a masterful, firsthand account of how Pixar rose from humble beginnings, what it was like to work so closely with Jobs, and how Pixar's story offers profound lessons that can apply to many aspects of our lives. "Part business book and part thriller--a tale that's every bit as compelling as the ones Pixar tells in its blockbuster movies. It's also incredibly inspirational, a story about a team that took big risks and reaped the rewards . . . I loved this book and could not put it down."--Dan Lyons, best-selling author of Disrupted "A natural storyteller, Levy offers an inside look at the business and a fresh, sympathetic view of Jobs."--Success Magazine An Amazon Best Book of 2016 in Business & Leadership - A top pick on Fortune's Favorite Booksof 2016 - A 2017 Axiom Business Book Award winner in Memoir/Biography
Showing 8 of 25 similar books
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Michael Batko is an accomplished author known for his insightful works on startup culture and entrepreneurship. He has made significant contributions to literature with his book, "The Art of Startup Fundraising," which has become a valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs. Batko's expertise in navigating the complexities of startup funding is evident in his clear and practical advice. Beyond writing, he is also recognized for his role as a startup advisor and mentor, helping numerous young businesses achieve success. His dedication to fostering innovation and growth in the startup ecosystem has cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the field.
James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.
Austen Allred is an influential entrepreneur and author, best known for his contributions to the education technology sector. He co-founded Lambda School, a groundbreaking online coding bootcamp that offers deferred tuition and has revolutionized access to tech education. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Allred is the author of "The Grassfed Startup," which provides insights into building sustainable businesses. His innovative approach to education has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the tech industry. Allred continues to inspire with his commitment to making high-quality education accessible to all.
Michael Bierut is a renowned graphic designer, educator, and author, known for his influential work in the field of design. A partner at the prestigious design firm Pentagram since 1990, Bierut has created iconic branding and identity systems for clients such as The New York Times, Saks Fifth Avenue, and MIT Media Lab. His literary contributions include the acclaimed book "How to," which offers insights into his design process and philosophy, and "Seventy-nine Short Essays on Design," a collection of thought-provoking reflections on the design industry. As a senior critic in graphic design at the Yale School of Art, Bierut has mentored countless students, shaping the future of design education. His work has garnered numerous awards, solidifying his status as a leading figure in contemporary design.
Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
“In the journey from dreams to reality, the courage to innovate becomes the true magic behind every success.”
To Pixar and Beyond
By Lawrence Levy
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Lawrence Levy is an accomplished author and former corporate executive known for his insightful narratives that blend personal reflection with broader social commentary. He is the author of several notable works, including 'To Pixar and Beyond,' which chronicles his experiences at Pixar Animation Studios and highlights the intersection of creativity and business. Levy's writing style is characterized by its clarity and depth, inviting readers to explore complex themes while remaining accessible and engaging. His unique perspective as both a storyteller and a businessman has garnered acclaim in literary and corporate circles alike.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'Born Standing Up', Steve Martin takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through his early life as a stand-up comedian, revealing the struggles and triumphs that shaped his career. With wit and candor, he shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes of his rise to fame, showcasing the loneliness and dedication that often accompany the pursuit of comedy. The memoir unveils the magic of performance, detailing the moments when Martin truly connected with his audience. As he reflects on the intersection of creativity and personal growth, readers are drawn into the vibrant world of comedy and the price of success. This compelling narrative leaves you wondering: what happens when the spotlight fades?
In 'Still Writing,' Dani Shapiro invites readers into the intimate and often tumultuous world of a writer's life. With candor and wit, she reflects on the complexities of creativity, exploring the intersection of life and art. Shapiro shares personal anecdotes that resonate deeply, illuminating the struggles and triumphs inherent in the act of writing. Through her vivid storytelling, she reveals the cathartic power of the written word. This is a thought-provoking meditation that will inspire both writers and readers alike to embrace their stories and the journey of self-discovery.
In 'Ctrl Alt Delete', Mitch Joel explores the disruptive landscape of the digital age, challenging readers to rethink their approach to business and marketing. With engaging anecdotes and sharp insights, he reveals how technology reshapes our relationships and the economy. Joel emphasizes the necessity of adapting to change for survival in an increasingly connected world. This compelling narrative not only presents the realities of innovation but also serves as a call to action for entrepreneurs and businesses alike. Prepare to be inspired and ready to embrace the digital revolution!
Dive into the whimsical world of Winnie the Pooh as Benjamin Hoff reveals profound philosophical insights through the lens of A.A. Milne's beloved characters. This charming exploration juxtaposes the simplicity of Pooh's 'Taoist' wisdom with Piglet's courageous spirit, illustrating how these traits embody Eastern philosophy. Readers will discover how tranquility, spontaneity, and living in harmony with nature can enrich their lives. Hoff invites us to embrace our inner child by finding beauty in simplicity and joy in the ordinary. Join the adventure of self-discovery and let the lessons of Pooh and Piglet inspire a more mindful existence.
In 'How to Be Strong, Healthy and Happy', Bob Hoffman unveils the secrets to achieving overall well-being through a vigorous blend of physical fitness and positive mindset. He emphasizes the importance of strength training and nutrition, making a compelling case for their roles in building not just a strong body, but a resilient spirit. Hoffman's engaging anecdotes and practical tips inspire readers to take charge of their health while cultivating joy in their daily lives. Exploring the interplay between mental and physical health, this book challenges conventional wisdom and encourages a proactive lifestyle. Are you ready to discover the transformative power of strength and happiness?
In 'Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game,' Michael Lewis uncovers the revolutionary approach that the Oakland Athletics used to compete against wealthier baseball teams. By harnessing the power of data and advanced statistics, the underdog A's challenged traditional scouting methods and redefined how talent is evaluated in sports. This intriguing narrative not only highlights the art of strategy in baseball but also raises questions about the nature of success and fairness in competitive fields. Readers will be fascinated by how numbers can transform a game and lead to unexpected triumphs. Can the underdogs really win by changing the rules?
In 'Memoirs of My Life', Edward Gibbon, the renowned historian, takes readers on a captivating journey through his life and the tumultuous times of the 18th century. With a keen eye for detail and a wit that sparks intrigue, Gibbon narrates his experiences from a childhood in a wealthy English family to his pivotal role in shaping historical narratives. He reflects on the philosophical ideas of his time, the struggles of his contemporaries, and the complexities of human nature. Each chapter unfolds fascinating anecdotes that reveal the man behind the monumental work, 'The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.' This memoir not only entertains but also leaves readers pondering the lessons of history and the impact of one’s life on the broader human story.
In 'The Visible Hand,' Alfred Dupont Chandler reveals the powerful role of management in shaping modern business practices. He argues that the rise of large corporations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries was driven not just by market forces, but by innovative management strategies.Through compelling case studies, the book explores how these strategies transformed industries and economies. Chandler's insights challenge the traditional narrative of free markets, emphasizing instead the importance of organized coordination in achieving efficiency. This groundbreaking work invites readers to reconsider the visibility and influence of managerial decision-making in our capitalist system.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
