After passing the management of the Sokol Blosser Winery to a second generation, Susan Sokol Blosser looked back and realized, with some surprise, that combining two apparently opposing ways of being — gracious and ruthless — had been the key to the survival and success of the business.
While being ruthless allows you to face tough decisions squarely and dispassionately and move your business forward, being gracious means you can carry out those decisions with consideration for others. Combine the two and you will be both powerful and classy. Full of hard earned wisdom and practical advise that can be easily put into practice, Gracious & Ruthless shows entrepreneurs and small business owners how they can lead with heart and a hard hat.
"As the founder of an international triple bottom line company that grew very quickly and went through all the typical small business challenges, every word in this book resonated with me. Susan’s experience is so eloquently shared. This book should be mandatory reading for any business class."
"Pioneering entrepreneur, visionary civic leader, occasional rabble-rouser, Susan Sokol Blosser is all this and more. She is a true Oregon icon with a voice that never fails to entertain, education, and inspire."
Essays and reflections on wine, work, family, and the lessons learned along the way.
Coming September 22, 2026!
Belle had the talent. She had the drive. But in early 20th-century Chicago, a proper Jewish girl’s place was in the home, not on the concert stage.
Based on a true story, Violin Girl follows Belle as her gift carried her toward a life her family and society would never approve. Marriage and motherhood are her preordained future. Professional women musicians did not raise families. What was she to do?
Join Susan Sokol Blosser at the Newberg Public Library to celebrate the launch of her first work of fiction, Violin Girl.
Hear Susan read from the book, share the story behind Violin Girl, answer your questions, and pick up your own copy.
September 22 | 6–7:30 PM
Newberg Public Library
