Ray and Joan by Lisa Napoli
Reviewed by: Genna Buhr, Library Director
Genre: Biography
Suggested Age: Adults
What is the book about?: Ray & Joan is the story of the Krocs, the couple that grew the global brand of McDonald’s. The book covers their lives before they were a couple, the story of their somewhat tumultuous relationship, and how their fortunes were made and used. While the book does speak some to the business, its focus shines a light on the private lives of the couple, their relationship with each other, and their relationship with money.
My Review: This book goes beyond Robin Leach and the Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous treatment. It gives an intriguing, investigative look into the lives that built an icon of American life and reminds us that money doesn’t equal perfection or happiness and that it can both help and complicate matters. In reading the book, I found the drama in the lives of both of these strong personalities to be palpable at times. Napoli depicts their lives with an even brush, neither villainizing or deifying.
Three Words That Describe This Book: Interesting, Encompassing, Golden (like the arches or the fries)
Give This a Try if You Like… Empty Mansions, Biography (television show), Big Macs
Rating: 4/5
About FDL Reads
Welcome to FDL Reads, weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library. Librarians (and possibly some other guest reviewers) review all types of books, from children’s picture books, young adult favorites, to the latest adult thriller, and share their thoughts each week at fondulaclibrary.org. If the book is owned by Fondulac District Library (or another local library), you’ll see a direct link to the catalog entry and whether or not it is available. If it is checked out or at another local library, you will be able to place a hold as long as you have your library card and PIN numbers. As with any book review, these are our opinions…we disagree amongst ourselves about books frequently. We all have different likes and dislikes, which is what makes the world an interesting place. Please enjoy, and keep on reading!