Read this very interesting auto biography of Richard Branson. This has detailed notes of Richard's life till 2001. A very good business man who dared life many times through the various sports he got involved with.

Richard has always been an entrepreneur all his life. May it be the music store, the first virgin flight or any other big business he has sought after creating opportunities and succeeded in most of them. The experiences have made him what he is, may it be the ones that got him punished ( by law) or the ones that made him sign some of the most talented singers. He was a guy who made most decisions on instinct and gut feel most of the times. Thats something which reinforces the confidence and the drive to make sure that a venture succeeds.

I have know people comparing Richard to other lavish spenders, but after reading the book, my impression changed a lot. This guy built the whole empire brick by brick. Took risks many times. Had the guts to look ahead and make moves which none did. His entire passion for flying hot air baloons to proving that he can acheive anything that can be acheived is quite amazing. Was not surprised to read recently that he is making a bid for Honda formula one team.

The naming of the empire as 'virgin' in itself is a good trivia:) The first flight in which all the passengers were tricked. The book has a good description of some funny incidents as well. All in all a very good read.