When we talk about “Business Books,” we’re typically referring to works of Nonfiction. But if you’re looking to learn about #Leadership, #Entrepreneurship, or #CareerDevelopment, there’s no reason to limit your browsing to one section of the bookstore. Some of the most memorable and inspiring lessons on these topics come from fiction.
Think tales of a failed consultant who travels the world to pitch his product; an aspiring journalist who answers to a tyrannical editor; and a group of boys who create their own society after getting stranded on a deserted island.
No matter your passion or profession, these stories will entertain while teaching you about business.
‘A Hologram for the King’ by Dave Eggers
In the wake of the US recession, self-employed consultant Alan Clay is facing the possibility of foreclosure and his daughter dropping out of college because he can’t pay her tuition. When the book opens, he has traveled to a Saudi Arabian city to pitch a holographic teleconferencing system to the king.
As he waits for the king to finally arrive, Clay’s struggles illustrate not only what it’s like to do business abroad, but also how it feels when your work no longer makes an impact.
‘The White Tiger’ by Aravind Adiga
In a series of letters to the visiting Chinese premier, narrator Balram Halwai tells the story of his entrepreneurial journey. The setting is Bangalore, where Balram starts out as a driver for a wealthy family. Eventually (and partly through criminal activity), he moves on to start his own taxi business.
This glimpse inside the psyche of a self-made man shows how powerful the desire for professional and financial success can be — and the lengths to which people will go to achieve it.
‘The Devil Wears Prada’ by Lauren Weisberger
When a recent college graduate lands a job as the assistant to the editor of the fictional Runway magazine, she’s immediately thrust into an unfamiliar world of high-powered fashion moguls. Every minute means a new demand from her boss, whether that’s booking an international flight or ordering a steak lunch.
Regardless of your career background, most everyone will relate to the idea of sacrificing your passion (or your dignity) to get impressive experience on your résumé. Ultimately, the protagonist’s journey will inspire readers to overcome professional challenges that seem insurmountable.