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Title: Screw It, Let’s Do It
Sub-title: Lessons in Life
Author: Richard Branson
Publisher: Random House
Number of pages: 106
Format: Paperback

A quick, fun read ‘Screw It, Let’s Do It’ still packs plenty of punch thanks to its larger than life author Richard Branson and, while in some respects this book is a distillation of his autobiography, the simple, clear format works.

In the words of the publisher ‘Screw It, Let’s Do It’ was specially commissioned for World Book Day’s adult literacy initiative with text at a readability level of between 9 and 12 years, yet was written to appeal to anyone wanting a quick, powerful and fast-paced read.

Richard Branson has personally experienced literacy challenges of his own due to undiagnosed mild dyslexia as a child and he employs a style that has universal appeal; along with resonant anecdotes and clear messages shared with the reader throughout.

Sandwiched between a brisk, spicy introduction and an “up” epilogue are nine chapters covering Branson’s core values, drivers and personal mission statements with each chapter’s content fleshing out the author’s own lessons in life and what, or who, cemented them into the personality that he has become today; with family, friends and foes all receiving equal measure and credit.

The style of ‘Screw It, Let’s Do It’ means the reader is guaranteed a quick and stimulating read and I doubt that this will be a book to languish on the book shelf having only been read once. On the contrary, it makes for the perfect written pick-me-up for mind and soul whether one is mentally or physically stuck for time or inspiration.

If you haven’t already read Richard Branson’s autobiography (Loosing My Virginity) then this book will, I am sure, tantalise you with a desire to read more about the author’s adventures and challenges. If you have already had that pleasure, as I have, then ‘Screw It, Let’s Do It’ is a reminder of that pleasure. It is also a stand alone gem that reminds the reader that whatever your dream or goal, “yes, you CAN do it!” and the only ‘rule’ is to have fun doing it.