“Lively writing and an affectionate yet honest tone make this an astonishingly charming and informative biography.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Insofar as it is possible to recreate the unique wit and always unexpected genius of David Ogilvy, Kenneth Roman has succeeded.” —Louis Auchincloss, National Medal of Arts winner and best-selling author of The House of Five Talents, Portrait in Brownstone, East Side Story, and many more
“At last! The definitive biography of the most influential advertising executive with whom I had the pleasure of working. Ken Roman's research diligence has brought much more of David's uniqueness to light. A great read from someone who worked with David for 26 years!” —Jack Keenan, former CEO of Kraft Foods International, and Diageo PLC Wine and Spirits
“David Ogilvy was unquestionably the King of Madison Avenue. Ken Roman's biography reflects his personal insights gained from being a colleague of Ogilvy's for several decades. This intimate portrayal makes clear Ogilvy's inspiring leadership of his agency even though he abhorred his managerial tasks. Ogilvy's convictions about what made for effective advertising -- it sells -- are clearly described by Roman, as is his brilliant personal salesmanship in winning new clients. A terrific read!” —Ron Daniel, former Managing Partner, McKinsey & Co.
“This brilliant biography is like a gorgeous iceberg. The tip dazzles the reader and is supported by a mass of weighty research below. Kenneth Roman enchants us with his account of the life and times of David Ogilvy who towered above the world of advertising … It should be required reading for all in the business … The story is told swiftly and entertainingly. The voluminous research is set out in detailed notes at the back, and these also grip the attention of those who want to know how so much could be told with such flair, and why the author can paint a background of historical events with such certainty.” —William Stevenson, author of A Man Called Intrepid
“This is a surprisingly interesting book about one of the most remarkable characters in advertising history. It is also an introduction to the business itself and how it has been conducted, in sickness and in health, by someone who lived the experience.” —Martin Mayer, author of Madison Avenue USA
“A great biography of a truly great man. David Ogilvy rewrote the book on modern advertising, and with The King of Madison Avenue, Ken Roman tells his story in a fashion that is worthy of David's accomplishments. Extensively researched and very well written. Give this book to any young person thinking about going into advertising. It will inspire them.” —Philip Carroll, former CEO of Shell Oil
“A most interesting book. It is a sensitive account of the career of this complex man who so successfully melded intuition and analysis. It should be compulsory reading for anyone contemplating a career in advertising or communications.” —Sir Michael Angus, former Chairman, Unilever
“Nobody ever need write another word about David Ogilvy, now that Ken Roman has written The King of Madison Avenue. It's the definitive biography of the most amazing man the advertising business has ever known. With David Ogilvy as the subject, how could you miss? Ken Roman doesn't miss; this is the fairest, most thoughtful, most complete and most human biography of that flawed genius we are ever likely to get … Ken Roman has penetrated the myths and written the definitive story, warts and all, of the greatest advertising man and one of the most unforgettable characters of his time. The King of Madison Avenue is to other advertising biographies as David Ogilvy's advertising was to that of other agencies: simply superior. Everyone who ever knew David Ogilvy will find something about the man they didn't know, and those who never knew David Ogilvy will have a rollicking good time getting to know him. This has to be the most readable book ever written about advertising.” —Bruce McCall, New Yorker writer and illustrator
“Ken Roman has hit a home run.” —Louis Begley, prize-winning author of Wartime Lies and other novels
“A wonderful job recounting the life of so complicated a person. Beautifully written.” —Harold Burson, founder, Burson-Marsteller Public Relations
