I Love Capitalism!

An American Story

By: Ken Langone

Narrated by: Ken Langone

New York Times Bestseller

Iconoclastic entrepreneur and New York legend Ken Langone tells the compelling story of how a poor boy from Long Island became one of America's most successful businessmen.

Ken Langone has seen it all on his way to a net worth beyond his wildest dreams. A pillar of corporate America for decades, he's a co-founder of Home Depot, a former director of the New York Stock Exchange, and a world-class philanthropist (including $200 million for NYU's Langone Health). In this memoir he finally tells the story of his unlikely rise and controversial career. It's also a passionate defense of the American Dream -- of preserving a country in which any hungry kid can reach the maximum potential of his or her talents and work ethic.

In a series of fascinating stories, Langone shows how he struggled to get an education, break into Wall Street, and scramble for an MBA at night while competing with privileged competitors by day. He shares how he learned how to evaluate what a business is worth and apply his street smarts to 8-figure and 9-figure deals . And he's not shy about discussing, for the first time, his epic legal and PR battle with former NY Governor Eliot Spitzer.

His ultimate theme is that free enterprise is the key to giving everyone a leg up. As he writes:

This book is my love song to capitalism. Capitalism works! And I'm living proof -- it works for everybody. Absolutely anybody is entitled to dream big, and absolutely everybody should dream big. I did. Show me where the silver spoon was in my mouth. I've got to argue profoundly and passionately: I'm the American Dream.

Critic reviews

“A joyful, authentic, and entertaining must-read by a patriot and hero who defines what it means to give back. I loved this great American story, and so will everyone who wants to understand true business success.” —Jack Welch, Executive Chairman, Jack Welch Management Institute

“Insightful and inspirational. Ken reminds us of a very important lesson—that capitalism does work. An authentic, up-by-the-bootstraps story by a shining example of the American dream.” —Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO, JPMorgan Chase & Co.

“There is no better role model for entrepreneurs. Ken’s sense of loyalty, integrity, and perseverance is clear. I recommend it highly and I love him!” —Robert Kraft, Chairman and CEO, The Kraft Group

“While my own love for capitalism might be conditional, my love for Ken Langone is not! His energy, enthusiasm, grit, and generosity are legendary.” —Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York

“I have known Ken Langone for forty years and simply put, he is a force of nature. I Love Capitalism fully captures the magnitude of that force, and the story of one of the most recognizable figures in business and an American treasure.” —Stanley Druckenmiller, Founder, Duquesne Capital

“It is one of the great honors of my life to be friends with Ken, who as chairman of the Promise Academy fought for those who have been less fortunate. His story will inspire every American. A must read for all who love this country and endeavor to make it better.” —Geoffrey Canada, President, Harlem Children’s Zone

“Ken gives new meaning to capitalism for those who have equated it with greed. Recommended reading for young people who underestimate themselves and have lost hope.” —Bonnie Hill, Cofounder, Icon Blue, Inc.

“I love Langone—I love him as a great philanthropist, a great businessman, a great citizen, a great friend; and now he has written a fascinating must-read book.” —Martin Lipton, Founding Partner, Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz

“An honest, interesting, and spectacular journey that confirms that anything is possible in America. Ken’s book inspires all those continuing to search for success.” —Larry Bossidy, former CEO and Chair, Honeywell

Awesome Stories

Excellent insight into history making decisions made by visionaries. Loved the fact that it is read by Mr Langone.

Thank you Ken Langone!

Thank you Mr. Langone, I thoroughly enjoyed the story of your life, Its a good motivator for anyone looking to succeed or understand what it takes to get to the position you have.

Riveting Lifetime Review

Thoroughly enjoyed the entire run of Langone's life, from young boy to present, and with the courage to include the less-than-flattering parts as well. Wasn't aware that he was so active on Wall Street before his Home Depot days.

Always good to hear the author read his own material.

A Testamonial for Capitalism

This is one of my all-time favorite books! Ken Langone's story epitomizes what makes capitalism and America great. the exceptional lifestyle we enjoying this country is a direct result of the hard work at people apply through capitalism. There is nothing else in the world like it. Not communism . Not socialism. Every year I meet college students coming into the workforce. I'm going to give each of my students a copy of Ken's book and say read it, and read it again, and read it again.

Lessons in Success through Confident Humility

Ken Langone shows how true success comes in reciprocal relationships beyond analysis and good accounting. People as a virtuous asset and partners. A fundamentally poignant perspective on what it takes to be a true successful leader.