Genentech

In her audiobook, Sally Smith Hughes delves into the remarkable rise of Genentech, Inc., which captured Wall Street's attention in the fall of 1980 by raising over $38 million despite lacking marketed products or substantial profits. Through a rich tapestry of interviews with key figures in the biotech industry, Hughes explores the interplay between personality, scientific innovation, and the commercial landscape surrounding this pioneering company. The narrative offers insights into how Genentech's founders navigated the complexities of the biotechnology sector amid economic challenges, highlighting the broader implications for pharmaceutical development and national competitiveness.