I enjoy shopping at Dollar General. You never know what you’ll discover, but they always have unique bookmarks. I still have one that’s embroidered from ten years ago. When I got asked if I’d like to review My Father’s Business by Cal Turner, Jr. with Rob Simbeck I said, “yes,” since I like to personally shop occasionally at Dollar General.
This memoir goes behind the scenes of this major retailer to show the humble start of Cal Turner, Sr. starting the retail chain that would morph into becoming Dollar General where everything is only a $1. Based out of Scottsville, KY where hardworking customers value a great deal and buy. Senior Turner knew what his customers wanted and needed. He would look high and low for great deals to sell to his customers. When his eldest son, Cal Turner, Jr. got into helping out in the stores he knew one day he’d take over the reigns of Dollar General.
This book is a short read, filled with personal stories of Cal Jr. growing up under the shadow of his dad and what it was like to grow up in a family immersed in living, breathing retail. Cal Jr. does share how his Christian faith helped shape his work ethic and personal life. There are tense moments and moments you’ll laugh. If you enjoy business books that are part memoir then you’ll enjoy this book.
I received my free copy of My Father’s Business from Center Street in exchange for my feedback. This was an enjoyable read and it’s neat to read about the history behind an iconic store.
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