Most interesting and unique concept, at least in the U.S., is that Arnold (a republican) pays his employees 14 months of salary per year. The 13th is for the employee's summer vacation. The 14th month's salary is their Christmas bonus.

A lot of sexist commentary sprinkled throughout very casually. I enjoyed reading about (a) the powerful and famous people Arnie managed to acquaint himself with (the photos!) - truly a people person with a drive to learn about many things, and (b) the governmental workings of the state of California.

Fan or not, this man has an interesting life story worthy for anyone to read. Enjoyed this book so much and learned so much about him. He truly is well rounded. One of my most favorite books of all time to read!

*FYI* - This is a self-told (and shamelessly biased) story (of nearly 700 pages) about how the ambitious, plotting and scheming son of a confirmed Nazi turned muscleman, turned American actor, turned American politician, turned has-been, and, then, turned American actor once again.

Without question - This is a true-to-life, modern-day, Hollywood, fairytale of total greed, conniving, and power come true. Its flagrant embellishments are aptly delivered as only the blustering, bragging Arnold (aka. "The Austrian Oak") could possibly deliver them.... "Heil".

Surprised myself by how much I enjoyed this book. Such an interesting life story, and his determination and drive to achieve is amazing. Recommend this read even if you are not an Arnie fan.

Amazing story of a boy from a small town with big dreams. Truly inspiring and thought provoking book about family, politics, acting, business and of course body building. Only negative point is that this book is so large, but that is more of a testament to how much this man has achieved to become a household name and international icon. An absolute must read for all Schwarzenegger fans

"When I die I will have to go before him. And he will ask me 'What is the riddle of steel?' And if I don't know he will cast me out of Valhalla and laugh at me! That's Crom! Strong on his mountain!"

Arnold's story is crazy. Great example of how working hard and believing in yourself can help you achieve great things.

Is it common for people to underestimate this man as much as I did? When you finish this book, lift it for 3 sets of 10

i'll be back

Book is long, but a fast read with no dull parts. Love him or hate him or something in between, just the documented achievements in his life make him one of the most fascinating characters in modern times. Though told from perspective of someone whose focus allowed him to overcome obstacles in his rise to multi-faceted prominence, he also tells of mistakes and hard lessons learned (or maybe not learned).