China Catalyst: Powering Global Growth by Reaching the Fastest Growing Consumer Market in the World

Acknowledgments

I once heard a story about a grade school boy who was very late in starting a required research report on birds. He was panicking at the amount of work he needed to accomplish at the last hours prior to the assignment's deadine. His older sister calmed him down by advising him to think about the assignment in steps. “Take it bird by bird,” she said. This story, told to me as I started to write this book, is an example of the kind words and encouragement I received along the way. There are too many examples like this to count.

The vision, dedication, and perseverance it takes to finish a book is never a solo effort. It is the product of many people who encourage, review, suggest, edit, contribute, and plan. It is also the product of shared inspiration. I have been unbelievably fortunate to be affiliated with so many people in my career who have planted seeds of inspiration that ultimately led to this book. Although I cannot thank everyone who provided help along the way, certain people deserve a special note of thanks.

These thanks begin with the special folks at the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University. After being admitted into the university many years ago, the school has been a source of learning and pride. The professors who instructed me were the highest example of passion for the pursuit of new knowledge that continues to inspire. Dr. David Besanko, one of the brightest, committed professors anywhere, was always willing to offer ...