Book ~ "Call me Dave: Behind the Counter with Dave Thomas, Founder of Wendy's" (2026) Denny Lynch

From Goodreads ~ Dave Thomas turned a boyhood dream of owning a hamburger stand into a worldwide success story. He proved that honesty, integrity, friendliness and hard work never go out of style. Denny Lynch, Dave's close friend and former Wendy's SVP of communications, offers an intimate look at the man behind the apron, tracing Dave's rise from a determined young busboy to one of America's most beloved spokesmen. 

Featuring personal reflections and anecdotes from his wife, daughters, employees, friends, and Wendy herself, "Call Me Dave" explores Dave's quest to build the nation's best hamburger chain while staying true to his principles. Dave never forgot where he came from and created a second legacy-the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption - dedicated to finding loving homes for more than 130,000 children lingering in the foster care system.

I like reading memoirs and bios/autobios. Dave Thomas seemed like a nice fella and I figured he would have an interesting story.  This book is written someone who spent a lot of time with him professionally and personally.

This book tells the story of Dave Thomas (1932 - 2002), who founded Wendy's. It follows Dave's journey from a tough childhood ... he was adopted, lost his mother at a young age and never finished high school ... to becoming one of America's most successful entrepreneurs. Along the way, we learn how his strong work ethic, common-sense approach to business and genuine care for people helped him build Wendy's into a global brand. The book doesn't just focus on Dave's business successes but also his personal missions such as starting the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. 

The author shares stories that highlight Dave's humility, sense of humor and belief in treating employees and customers with respect. The book also explores his passion for adoption advocacy, a cause that was deeply personal to him.

I liked this book. I enjoyed the writing style and getting to know Dave. It seems that he was likeable but firm and fair. I appreciate that all author profits are being donated to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, continuing Dave's lifelong mission to find every child a forever home.