Customer Reviews

Defying the Odds

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This lady has a wonderful sense of life.
I found the book interesting, informative and inspiring.
I have a small business and I am asking all of my 20 employees to read it.
Thank you Marcia.
(My only criticism is that it was too short!)

Marcia Israel begins the book as a poor girl in New York working as a part time model and bookkeeper, and by the end she's not only a successful entrepreneur who has been named "Woman of the Year" by the Los Angeles Times, but a world traveler, a Presidential commission appointee, a USC professor, and somebody who entertains heads of state in her home.

It's an incredible story.

She also gives good advice along the way for aspiring business owners.

"Defying the Odds" is an autobiographical account of Marcia Israel-Curley's trials and triumphs as she founded and grew the "Judy's" line of specialty clothing stores. A highly successful chain that was founded in late 1940's, it set several precedents that are still followed today by most specialty chains.

But this was a time when a woman working outside the home was not totally accepted, a woman at the head of a successful corporation was pretty much unheard of, and the average retail store lasted only three years.

The author starts with some background on her family and her childhood. She follows that with how and why she started the clothing chain and then delves immediately into the ups and downs of the business. From the first small store that was so small it would only allow one customer in it at a time while others waited outside, to 104 stores, it is the story of strength, perseverance, and common sense. An encouraging read for anyone in business for themselves or thinking about it, it is a recommended read.