This is not a standard book introduction. Usually co-editors produce an integrated explanation of the contents and the key lessons contained in the book. We have chosen to take another approach. We have written separately to introduce the book – not because we don't get along, and not because we have difficulty writing with one another. We have enjoyed many exchanges and have offered one another much editorial assistance in producing these chapters. We have written separately to illustrate the two kinds of stories and principles that you will experience as you read the chapters. One focuses on the practical lessons of leadership – how to be a better leader and how great leaders lead with values. The other focuses on an explanation of why the outcomes occurred, what might explain the success being described, and what key concepts must be kept in mind. That is, the book tells engaging and interesting stories, but it also adds substantively to our understanding of leadership, organizational success, and how they are related through values. We begin with Ed.

From Ed

This book is a symphony of wonderful stories about leaders and leadership. A particular brand of leadership – Values-Based Leadership – based upon certain universal, fundamental values, such as honesty, respect, trust, and the dignity and worth of every individual as a human being.

A values-based leader serves others in a positive way. A positive way includes the manner in which he or she leads; the way he or she treats his or her followers; and the ultimate morality of the objectives or results.