Name: In the Blink of an Eye
Brand: Austin Macauley Publishers
SKU: 9781035894680
Price: 10.99 GBP
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (14 reviews)
Author: Andy Baker

In the Blink of an Eye is a powerful semi-autobiographical narrative that chronicles the extraordinary journey of a young boy from the impoverished streets of Portsmouth to the heights of corporate success. Born into a tumultuous environment marked by poverty and an abusive father, the protagonist, Joe, faces overwhelming challenges that threaten to define his future.

This story captures the essence of resilience and determination as Joe transforms from a troubled youth who once engaged in reckless joyrides into a focused, ambitious and successful adult. Through sheer willpower and strategic thinking, he navigates the complexities of life, seizing opportunities that arise amidst adversity.

As readers delve into Joe’s life, they witness his professional ascent and heartfelt efforts to forge meaningful connections with his own children, contrasting starkly with his relationship with his father. In the Blink of an Eye is more than just a tale of triumph; it is a profound exploration of personal growth, the impact of choices, and the indomitable spirit of humanity. This inspiring narrative serves as a testament that one’s past does not determine one’s future, and with determination and the right mindset, anyone can rewrite their life story.

Andy Baker was born in Portsmouth, England, in 1965. Raised in poverty, he was schooled between South Africa and England. He was involved in street violence as a youth and regularly stole cars, attracting the close attention of the police.

After a few very modest manual jobs, he entered the business world. He progressed quickly through the ranks of the corporate world to the position of CEO in various companies and industries.

He lived in Africa for 30 years and travelled to 109 countries. He retired to England and lives in the Cotswolds with his wife, Yash.

Customer Reviews

5.0

14 reviews

Natalie

A great read , especially if one is needing direction and inspiration for a life in the corporate world. Many valuable lessons on leadership and grit, not to mention integrity and compassion for the less fortunate or less educated . I thoroughly enjoyed the personal viewpoint of the author and would highly recommend this book especially for young college students starting out their careers. This book will inspire you to think creatively and also to persevere when things don’t turn out as expected.
Simon Crawford

This is a powerful and deeply human rags-to-riches story. What stands out is not just the scale of Andy’s journey but the honesty and detail with which it’s told – every step feels earned. His story resonated with me, but what’s remarkable is how far he takes it. Where familiar beginnings might lead to predictable paths, Andy’s moves into something far more ambitious. His indomitable spirit runs throughout. At its core, this is a story about choices – and a reminder that your past does not define your future. With the right mindset and belief, it is possible to reshape your life entirely. Inspiring, grounded, and quietly powerful.
Holly Swanepoel

In the Blink of an Eye is an absolute triumph. If you’re expecting a typical business memoir, think again. Andy Baker delivers something far deeper and rawer. The book traces an incredible journey forged through genuine adversity, blood, sweat, and relentless hard work—proving your background doesn't dictate your future. What stands out most is his unshakeable integrity and deeply rooted respect for humanity. His refusal to budge on what is right is incredibly inspiring, and he keeps you completely enthralled throughout with a subtle twist of occasional British humour. It's packed with real, practical perspective for anyone navigating their own career path. A total must-read!
Graeme Auret

This a wonderful story of a life well lived. a lovely rolling story that gives great insight to the person, the man and the leader he became and his relationships along the way. Characters were full of life and the writer gave great insights to the personalities. Knowing the underlying character gave me many insights I did not know. I could not put it down. Great read Andy!
Sameer Srivastava

"In the Blink of an Eye" is a compelling memoir that chronicles a remarkable journey from humble beginnings to the C-suite of major multinational corporations. What makes this story particularly inspiring is the author's path: leaving school at sixteen with no advantages, he worked his way up the corporate ladder through sheer determination and ability. His decision to pursue an MBA later in life demonstrates that education and ambition aren't bound by age or convention. The author's authenticity is one of the book's greatest strengths. His character and humility shine through without a trace of pretense or self-aggrandizement. He writes with disarming honesty about the pivotal moments that could have derailed his life entirely—a teenage run-in with the police, serious injuries from various mishaps—and shows how these very challenges forged his resilience and character. These near-misses feel particularly valuable for younger readers navigating their own uncertain paths. The memoir offers tangible proof that early setbacks don't define your future, and that character can be built through adversity rather than destroyed by it. This is an accessible, heartwarming read that I'd recommend to anyone seeking inspiration or a reminder that circumstances don't have to determine destiny.
Wendy

I am not normally an avid reader of books, but from starting this one, I enjoyed every page and had real trouble putting it down. I can definitely recommend this book.
Andy Beavis

This is a great book that shows, if you are prepared to work hard and make the most of any opportunities that come your way, you can overcome a tough start in life and achieve great things . It also shows that the route of A level, degree is not the only way to 'make it' in the corporate world. One other things that stands out for me is the value of taking stock and creating plans that can be achieved, and then following through
Amber hudd

A super inspiring read! Following a humble characters journey through various different life experiences. Would thoroughly reccomend to anyone after a good read you’ll get very stuck into!!
Martin Lang

A thoroughly entertaining ‘rags to riches’ story, beautifully told by its author Andy Baker. This is a genuine page turner; an insightful and gripping semi-autobiographical tale, which left me asking for more. A really great read!!
mrs nishma chande

A thought provoking read about a remarkable journey of an individual who went from humble beginnings to beng a successful captain of industry. Andy’s writing style is refreshing. Short chapters , vivid recollections ,fine details and humour all make this book a highly recommended read and an inspiration for all , to win against all odds !
Paulo Matias

Having worked in a company led by Andy Baker, I was especially interested to read "In the Blink of an Eye". This is an honest and inspiring account of a man who overcame a difficult upbringing and significant adversity to achieve professional success. What makes the book particularly engaging is its authenticity. Andy does not shy away from the challenges he faced, and the lessons learned along the way are both relatable and thought-provoking. Reading the book also gave me greater insight into the leadership qualities I witnessed firsthand. Despite leading a large global organisation, Andy had a rare ability to make people feel seen and valued. He knew people by name regardless of their role and would regularly walk through the building greeting and chatting with staff. Those simple interactions reflected the people-centred approach that shines through in the book. More than a story of business success, this is a story of resilience, determination and the belief that our circumstances do not have to define our future. An inspiring and worthwhile read.
Brian

Highly recommend this book. A marvellous story of one man’s journey from humble beginnings to very top of the corporate world. Thought provoking, funny and sad in places, the reader is taken on a wild ride as the protagonist climb the greasy pole through the corporate world. Well written in an engaging style it’s a page turner from start to finish!
Harley Rider

This is a wonderful book. I bought it based on the excellent reviews, and I was not disappointed. Joe's story is inspirational, and I was hooked from the first chapter. The narrative arc is beautifully delivered and some of the key decision points in his journey have made me reflect heavily on the crossroads I've encountered in my life. The lesson I took is that we get some right and we get some wrong, but your strength of character is what defines a person, and the author is obviously someone who is fiercely driven, ambitious yet humble and honest. I'd like to have a beer with him - and I was rooting for him the whole way through. The villains of the piece are just like the people we've all known and met in our lives, but the way Joe deals with them gives some helpful guidance for the reader when faced with similar circumstances. Stand up for what is right and look the bullies in the eye. Never back down. Very few books are as thought provoking and as easy to read as this. It is both a romp through a life well lived as well as a novel in its own right. It would make a great film, and the book deserves to do well. Highly recommended. 5 Stars.
Yusuf

An excellent read, very inspirational and motivating story of a true leader