GLOBUSZ BOOKSThe Go-Getter: A Story That Tells You How to be OnePeter B. (Peter Bernard) Kyne
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The Go-Getter: A Story That Tells You How to be One
Peter B. (Peter Bernard) Kyne · en
What does it take to prove yourself when the odds—and your own limitations—are stacked against you? Follow William E. Peck, a determined one-armed veteran, as he tackles impossible tasks in a tough business world that demands grit and loyalty.
2 min summary348 wordsEasy, due to clear language and a focused, short narrative difficulty
perseveranceleadershiployaltyovercoming adversityself-reliance
Globusz Books summary
What the book is about
The Go-Getter: A Story That Tells You How to be One centers on William E. Peck, a one-armed war veteran who seeks to prove his worth in the lumber and shipping business during the post-World War I era. The story opens with Cappy Ricks, a strong-willed and experienced businessman, frustrated by poor management and corruption in his company’s Shanghai office. After the previous manager absconds with funds, Cappy considers sending a young, untested man named Andrews to take charge temporarily. Meanwhile, Peck arrives seeking employment, initially rejected by some but ultimately hired by Cappy to work under Mr. Skinner.
Peck’s first challenge is to sell difficult lumber stock, including the notoriously undesirable "skunk spruce." Despite his physical disability—a missing hand and a weak leg—Peck approaches the task with optimism and determination. His success in securing new accounts across several states impresses Skinner and earns him a salary raise recommendation. However, Cappy Ricks is not yet convinced and devises a further test to assess Peck’s character and resourcefulness.
This test, known as the "Degree of the Blue Vase," involves Peck locating and delivering a blue vase to Cappy on a train late at night. Peck faces numerous obstacles: searching multiple streets, calling various businesses with similar names, negotiating with a cautious shopkeeper who demands cash, and even securing a diamond ring as collateral to complete the purchase. Despite exhaustion, frustration, and insults—especially from the shiftless Skinner—Peck perseveres.
In a dramatic conclusion, Peck flies with a pilot friend to intercept the train and deliver the vase. Cappy then reveals that the vase itself was inexpensive and that the entire ordeal was a test of Peck’s loyalty, courage, and go-getter spirit. Peck’s unwavering commitment, despite physical limitations and difficult circumstances, earns Cappy’s respect and confirms his potential for greater responsibility.
The story closes on a hopeful note, with Peck humorously declaring his intention to play one-handed golf, symbolizing his refusal to be defined or limited by his disability. Throughout, the narrative balances moments of dry humor, candid dialogue, and sharp contrasts between conservative and progressive attitudes toward leadership and business management.
Beyond the summary
What might this book awaken in you?
This story might awaken in you a renewed appreciation for quiet determination and the grit it takes to prove yourself beyond appearances. Peck’s journey shows how loyalty and courage can be tested in unexpected ways, and how success often depends on persistence despite setbacks and physical limitations. It invites reflection on what it means to be a ‘go-getter’—not just someone who pushes forward, but someone who embraces responsibility, faces absurd challenges head-on, and maintains optimism even when the path is unclear. You may find yourself reconsidering how you respond to difficult tasks or leadership tests in your own life.
Before you commit
Why you might read this
What does it take to prove yourself when the odds—and your own limitations—are stacked against you? Follow William E. Peck, a determined one-armed veteran, as he tackles impossible tasks in a tough business world that demands grit and loyalty.
Spoiler sensitivity: lowThe main plot twist—that the blue vase task is a test—is revealed near the end but does not undermine the story’s engagement or themes.
Themes worth noticing
Determination and Resilience
Peck’s persistence in overcoming physical disability and business obstacles highlights the power of unwavering effort and optimism.
Loyalty and Obedience
The story explores the value of following through on difficult orders, even when they seem unreasonable or humiliating, as a measure of character.
Leadership and Initiative
Cappy Ricks values youthful energy, courage, and self-reliance, contrasting with more cautious and conservative management styles.
Appearance vs. Reality
The blue vase test underscores how challenges may appear trivial or absurd but serve deeper purposes in revealing true qualities.
Reintegration of War Veterans
Peck’s military background and physical disabilities reflect the broader struggle of veterans finding their place in civilian life.
Questions to carry with you
- What qualities truly define a ‘go-getter’ in challenging circumstances?
- How do we respond when asked to perform tasks that seem pointless or unfair?
- In what ways can physical or personal limitations be overcome by attitude and effort?
- How does leadership balance trust in youthful initiative with the need for experience?
- What role does loyalty play in professional and personal success?
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