Family Reins

The Extraordinary Rise and Epic Fall of an American Dynasty

By: Billy Busch

Narrated by: Billy Busch

The story of the iconic Anheuser-Busch dynasty, written—for the first time—by a Busch heir.

As an heir to the Anheuser-Busch company and fortune, Billy Busch was raised on the real stories of how his family built one of America’s oldest and most iconic brands. Since the company was formed almost 150 years ago, the Busch family, their beer, the famous Clydesdales in their advertising, and even their style of business have become a symbol of the American dream—that not-so-outdated belief that hard work, grit, and a positive can-do attitude make anything possible.

Growing up on the family’s ancestral estate as a prince to the King of Beers, Billy lived a life only kids could dream up—living in an amusement park, traveling by private rail car and yacht, and playing with his pet elephant, Tessie. But as he grew up, he realized that the Busch family legacy was not just wealth and privilege. With no separation between family and business, Billy’s father—more boss than dad—continued the tradition of preparing the next generation for corporate leadership, with high and exacting standards for his children. For Billy, all of this, combined with a dysfunctional family environment, was all too normal.

Family Reins tells the story of a legendary American family, their rise to power, and their fall from grace through poisonous infighting, succession struggles, and a seemingly endless string of tragedies, scandals, and loss.

©2023 Billy Busch (P)2023 Blackstone Publishing

Critic reviews

Library Journal Pick

Behind closed doors

Every family has their struggles. Having group in St. Louis and visiting Grant’s Farm multiple times I was fascinated by this look into what life was like in the big house. It’s also very true that siblings in the same family have unique personalities and can be treated very differently by their parents. Many in St. Louis deeply appreciate all that the Busch family did for the community. I appreciate Billy openly sharing the struggles and pain of sibling rivalry. It’s heartbreaking and frustrating when a sibling betrays you as an adult and only wants to compete. This story was enlightening, sincere, heartfelt. A very engaging read, one that I think many people will relate to, even if you didn’t grow up with a pet elephant.

Best book

This book has been one of the best books I have listened to in a long time.

great heartfelt read!

Wow! We live in St. Louis and Grants Farm so we are interested in the story of the area. This book and reading by Billy is so interesting and gives light to so many stories. A fascinating listen!

I love this book

The personal story of Billy’s life was wonderful to read. Living the fairytale life growing up had its pitfalls, but what a positive outlook he has on life today. This is an important part of St. Louis history and I appreciate that he has written this book and shared it with the world. Truly a treasure and very well done.

Interesting story

Very interesting view of the Busch legacy. Very notable as the view from Billie, would love to hear the others!