The Politically Intelligent Leader

Reviews / Votes

There is a fertile zone between mugger's alley and Pollyannaish ideals where the push-and-tug of politics flourishes. Educators need to join the fray. This book nicely portrays the strategic and tactical options drawing on both academic research and the realities of the game. -- Terry Deal, coauthor, Reframing Organizations: Artistry, Choice and Leadership, and Leading with Soul The Politically Intelligent Leader is a must read for any aspiring-or experienced-administrator who must deal with competing priorities and organizational interests. Returning repeatedly to the notion that 'politics is local' and a challenge to be understood and embraced, the authors bring to bear their considerable experience in a series of easy-to-understand theoretical concepts and sensible and practical approaches to everyday professional challenges. I heartily recommend this book. -- Scott P. Plotkin, executive director, California School Boards Association I really loved [the] book. It is written in the kind of personal, highly readable style that appeals to me, and I'm sure will appeal to many others as well. I particularly loved all the practical tips and the illustrative war stories ... used to make [the] points come to life. I find The Politically Intelligent Leader to be full of what my grandmother used to call 'good common horse sense.' -- Leonard O. Pellicer, author, Caring Enough to Lead: Schools and the Sacred Trust, dean of the College of Education and Organizational Leadership, Uni A most useful book for aspiring administrators who need to understand issues of political leadership. The authors have written a very clear and user-friendly book. We will use this book with the students in our Educational Leadership program. -- Dr. Noni Mendoza Reis, chair, Department of Educational Leadership, San Jose State University White, Harvey, and Kemper offer a readable book that encourages leaders to view politics as a way to meet the needs of all. -- . American School Board Journal, May 2008 A book that will keep you focused and grounded as you face the realities of external and internal politics, [this] is essential reading, not only for fresh, young faces uncertain about how to address their first organizational challenge, but also for their battle-weary counterparts who are looking for newer-and more effective-strategies to address ongoing issues. The Politically Intelligent Leader is a book that can save your sanity-and your career! -- Robin Calote, president, Ventura College, CA