The Real Deal: My Story from Brick Lane to Dragons' Den

I looked at the price and the 2 1/2 star rating and thought it can't be up to much but I like his style in the Den so I took a punt. James Caan tells a fascinating story, his fears, his joy and his unorthodox perspective on moving ahead of the pack in business. A charismatic maverick with a spellbinding story to tell and the fact that he reads his book makes it so much more real. As a small business owner this has truly inspired me to take my business to the next level. WARNING: This is a cannot stop listening audiobook so make sure you have plenty me time!

A good listen. Full of small tips and tricks as well as some interesting strategic stuff.

But I have been ASTONISHED that almost everything in his life appears to start with a lie. And even more amazed that he's rather proud of that. Whether it's his relationship, getting clients, pushing candidates or starting new divisions, he can't appear to start anything without first telling a fib.

I'm afraid this book makes it all too clear why recruitment consultants can have a bad reputation - a focus on the Porsche James has "painted a blue sky" about rather than desire to help someone find the right role. a sad state of affairs.

But that aside, he's clearly a great motivator and an astute entrepreneur. the book is worth getting.

Giving his incredible success you can forgive James Caan's laboured reading style. The book is full of fascinating anecdotes. His audacity in pursing his eventual wife, deciding on a whim to change his name and his many successful charitable endeavours were actually more interesting then how he made his money. A very real story which a lot of life lessons contained within it.

James Cann, delivers a fascinating account of his rise to the top. This audiobook provides any budding entrepreneur with masses of tips and insight into the man behind the sharp suit. James Cann takes you from his roots in the bustling ‘Brick Lane’ to the heady heights of selling his recruitment business for millions, to ultimately becoming a Dragon on Dragon’s den. From maverick business man to respected philanthropist, James Cann has lived the life that most can only dream of. He provides you with the route-map to success and encourages you to live a remarkable life, no matter what business venture you decide to pursue. Enjoy, learn and prosper.

N. Matheson

Its a really good listen, well told with good advice.

Of all the Dragon's in the Den, James was perhaps the one I didn't get the most and so was intrigued to discover both that James has written his autobiography and that he also narrates it. This is a completely spellbinding listen from start to finish. Brilliantly written, frank, intimate and expertly read. Experienced a whole range of emotions listening and overjoyed to hear such sound business advice in this rags to riches journey. A hugely inspirational man and a very highly recommended audiobook.

I read a lot of business books but for some reason I was drawn to a biography for a change. Excellent choice, really learnt a lot give it a try.

A very interesting story of James' life. I really learned a lot more about him than the quietly spoken character on Dragon's Den. Quite inspirational in parts.



The only issue with the book is that James Caan narrates it himself. At times he sounds positively bored and his tone and pace change quite regularly. I got the impression he'd been nipping out for a coffee between lines!



However I was prepared to forgive the 'unusual' narration because that's not what he does and it is always nice to hear books read by the author.



I'd recommend the book.

I did not expect anything apart from a "usual business story" and I got it. Sometimes gets a bit boring, the narration could be improved. Overall, I would recommend it if you like business books, but it is not one of those "must read this!" books. Gives some ideas what worked and what did not work for James Caan and for that I would recommend it to my friends.

Great insight into James Caan's life. Thoroughly interesting and highly recommended.

Saying that some parts I would of like to have been highlighted more, one of the main aspects is offcourse his personal situation with his father.