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Ray & Joan: The Man Who Made the McDonald's Fortune and the Woman Who Gave It All Away

Lisa Napoli

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Summary

Lisa Napoli tells the intertwined stories of Ray and Joan Kroc. Ray’s work as a salesman and franchise builder leads into the growth of McDonald’s, while their personal relationship forms another strand of the biography. Joan’s later philanthropy includes peace activism and major gifts to the Salvation Army and NPR. The book connects the creation of a business fortune with the choices made about giving it away.

  • SourceRay & Joan — Penguin Random House · Book Description and Product Details; original November 15, 2016 ebook of the same work
  • SourceLisa Napoli: The Author — Ray & Joan · Author’s account of researching Joan and the need to tell Ray’s story

Why read it Our view

Useful for considering how building a business and using its wealth can follow different paths. Ray and Joan’s stories invite questions about personal values, philanthropy and the people whose choices shape a business legacy.

Written about

  • Ray KrocBiography subject
    Napoli’s dual biography follows Ray Kroc’s business career and his relationship with Joan, alongside her philanthropy.
    Source