In The Trail to Success: A City Manager on Leadership, Management, and Civic Empowerment, Howard W. Brown Jr. shares his inspiring journey from a first-generation college student to becoming one of the youngest and few Black city managers in the nation. Brown's fascination with municipal workers began in childhood, sparked by the simple act of his grandparents tipping what they fondly called "garbage men"-the consistent and essential sanitation workers who left an indelible mark on his young mind.

This memoir is not just a chronicle of Brown's rise but also a candid account of the challenges he faced along the way. From a youthful marriage and subsequent divorce, raising two children, financial struggles, and multiple relocations, to the relentless scrutiny of the media, Brown's journey was far from easy. Yet, he remained steadfast, driven by his belief that public service is a calling, not just a career.

Brown's narrative is as much a treatise on customer service as it is a personal memoir. It serves as a masterclass in management and a guide to fostering collaboration and growth within a team. His insights are both practical and inspirational, making this book an invaluable resource for current and aspiring leaders alike.

Although Brown's journey began in his hometown of Escambia County, his lessons are universal. He emphasizes the need for efficiency and cost-effectiveness in public service, as well as the potential to make a real difference in the communities we live and work in.

As the baby boomer generation retires, leaving a void in local government management, Brown's memoir serves as a timely reminder of the changing face of the workforce. He acknowledges the need to adapt to the expectations of millennials and post-millennials, who bring their full selves to work-complete with tattoos, piercings, and a desire for flexible work schedules.

The Trail to Success is a powerful reminder of the humanity of both government workers and the communities they serve. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of leadership and make a meaningful impact in their community.