Business books? Don’t bother. Read novels instead.

You should pack these on holiday and be inspired…

School is out for summer. I hope, like me, you are looking forward to a week or two off. You might even be cramming a couple of the latest business blockbusters in to your luggage so you can return to work full of ideas and fizzing with freshness. Can I propose a different idea? Don’t. Novels make better business reads. Let me show you why I think that as you start packing, you should reach for one of these great works of fiction instead.

Let’s start with the big topics. Who isn’t concerned about the geopolitical climate? War in Europe? Anxieties about Russia? Turn to My favourite novel of all time, Leo Tolstoy's epic masterpiece, "War and Peace”. Struggling to manage your cash flow at a time of economic insecurity might seem distant from nineteenth century Russia, but never has it been more current. This mighty work imparts crucial lessons in leadership, strategy, and adaptability. The novel presents a panoramic view of human nature and the consequences of decisions made during times of conflict. Through the characters of Pierre Bezukhov and Prince Andrei Bolkonsky, we witness the importance of strategic thinking, resilience, and the ability to navigate unpredictable circumstances. "War and Peace" shows how effective leaders must balance idealism with pragmatism, make calculated decisions, and adapt their plans to changing circumstances. And, as an extra bonus you will fall in love with a different Russia to the one dominating the media right now.

Anxious about pinning down your company mission or wrestling with ESG metrics? F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel, "The Great Gatsby," offers a vivid portrayal of ambition, wealth, and the pursuit of the American Dream that might give you the motivation to link purpose and profit. While exploring themes of excess and disillusionment, the novel provides valuable insights into the complexities of business and the perils of unchecked ambition. Jay Gatsby's relentless pursuit of wealth and social status serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that true success is not solely defined by material possessions. By delving into the dark side of greed and the emptiness it can breed, "The Great Gatsby" prompts us to reflect on the importance of purpose, integrity, and genuine human connections in the business world. It serves as a reminder that success must be built on more than mere accumulation.

Or perhaps you are overwhelmed by the new focus on wellbeing and how to ensure your team is productive? Charlotte Brontë's lesser-known novel, "Villette” can help. In its pages you will find valuable insights into the dynamics of workplace relationships and the hazards of lifelong learning. The protagonist, Lucy Snowe, faces numerous challenges as a young woman in the Victorian era, seeking employment and striving for independence. Through Lucy's experiences as a teacher in a foreign country, the novel explores the dramas involved in the pursuit of professional fulfillment. Villette teaches that success often requires stepping outside our comfort zones and embracing new opportunities—surely something every self respecting business leader strives to do daily.

Dare I mention diversity? I know, I know, you are still focusing on getting it right, so I suggest reading,  "How to Be Both" by Ali Smith. This innovative, beautiful and multi-layered work explores themes of identity, perception, and the interconnectedness of past and present. The story delves into themes of gender, sexuality, and the fluidity of identity. It emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity and inclusion effortlessly. 

One of the reasons I love it is its experimental and unconventional narrative style. The novel breaks free from traditional storytelling structures, encouraging readers to think. Surely we can learn something useful about embracing creativity from this narrative bravery?  

It is also a book that challenges traditional power structures and questions societal norms. The novel explores unusual power dynamics, the influence of history, and the ability to challenge and subvert established hierarchies. You will finish the last page and be desperate to encourage employees to explore new ideas, take calculated risks, and challenge conventional wisdom.

If I really haven’t convinced you that any of this fiction is for you, I have one last and much more serious suggestion. So before you reach for another tome by Simon Sinek or Clay Cristensen, How about Peter Apps’ book "Show Me the Bodies: How We Let Grenfell Happen"? The book is a meticulous study of the Grenfell disaster and subsequent inquiry. It explores what happens when people in power  show extreme contempt for those without it.

The book is not only a lesson in accountability and responsibility but also in management. It is a reminder that good management is not just about profits and efficiency but also about basic humanity. It shows how to avoid creating a situation where billions have to be spent correcting mistakes that should never have been made in the first place. The book is a powerful reminder that management is not just about managing resources but also about managing people's lives.

Before I am sued by a coalition of leading business writers, I shall end here. All that’s left is for me to wish you a very happy holidays wherever you are and whatever you are reading.