Most books about leadership start with the people in charge. This one starts with everyone else.

A passing traveler helps carry a stroller up the subway stairs. A stranger directs traffic around an accident. Volunteers form a human chain to rescue a family from a riptide.

None of these people were appointed. None were in charge. For a few moments, each stepped out of their ordinary role, took responsibility for what needed doing, enlisted others as necessary, and then quietly returned to being just another participant.

That is guest leadership.

Noted author Dr. Alistair Cockburn uncovers these countless acts of temporary leadership as not exceptions�they are everywhere. They fill the gaps in laws, job descriptions, organizational charts, and formal authority. They are the invisible force that keeps families, communities, organizations, and societies functioning.