Fiction and horror books not only spark the imagination, they can also leave profound lessons.
Reading, whether for pleasure or learning, is one of the most enriching and rewarding practices a person can adopt. Literature, in particular, offers a window into imaginary worlds, unique perspectives, and valuable lessons. Entrepreneurs often find inspiration from a variety of sources, and fiction and horror books are no exception.
Fiction can spark creativity, foster empathy, and provide fresh ideas for the challenges of the business world. In this list, we explore ten books that, although they belong to very different literary genres, offer valuable lessons for businessmen and women. From the classic vampire novel “Dracula” to the fantasy graphic novel “Nimona”passing through the chilling pages of “The Historian” and the lyrical melancholy of “Rhymes and Legends” de Bécquer, each work offers a unique perspective on business management, creativity and decision making.
Fiction books for entrepreneurs
1. hornsJoe Hill
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What is it about
The story follows Ignatius “Ig” Perrish, a young man wrongly accused of the murder of his girlfriend, Merrin. After a night of excess and desperation, Ig wakes up one day with horns growing from his head. These horns are not only physical, but they also give him a strange power: the ability to make people confess his darkest desires.
Why should you read it?
Joe Hill is a talented writer who inherited his literary skills from his father, Stephen King. His writing style is vivid and immersive, making for engaging reading.
Lesson: Responsibility and reputation
The main character, Ig, faces an unjust accusation that seriously affects his reputation. Business owners can learn the importance of maintaining a strong image and facing responsibilities with integrity to preserve the trust of their customers, employees and partners.
2. The Phantom of the Operaby Gastón Leroux
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What is it about
The story takes place in 19th century Paris and follows Christine Daaé, a talented young soprano who becomes the obsession of a mysterious and disfigured character known as the Phantom of the Opera.
Why should you read it?
“The Phantom of the Opera” has had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring numerous stage adaptations, musicals, films, and literary works. Reading the original work allows you to appreciate its influence and understand its importance in literature and entertainment.
Lesson: Leadership and management
The novel shows how effective management of an organization, such as the opera house, is essential to its success. The character of Raoul, the Viscount de Chagny, demonstrates leadership in trying to resolve the Phantom’s situation and ensure the well-being of the opera. Entrepreneurs can learn the importance of strong leadership and effective management to overcome challenges and maintain stability in their companies.
3.- The witchesthe Roald Dahl
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What is it about
The novel tells the story of an orphan boy, whose name is not mentioned in the story, who lives with his grandmother in Norway. The little boy’s grandmother warns him about the existence of real witches, who hate children and are dedicated to harming them.
Why should you read it?
“The witches” by Roald Dahl is a novel that offers a combination of imagination, humor, valuable lessons, and an engaging narrative style for children and adults alike. It is a book that has left a lasting mark on children’s literature.
Lesson: Courage and determination
Throughout the story, the boy protagonist shows exceptional courage and determination in confronting witches and protecting other children. In the business world, courage and determination are important qualities for facing challenges and making difficult decisions.
4. DraculaBram Stoker
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What is it about
It is a classic gothic novel that tells the story of Count Dracula, a vampire seeking to expand his dominion over human beings. The plot unfolds through a series of diaries, letters, and personal records written by various characters.
Why should you read it?
It is a classic of Gothic literature that has stood the test of time and remains relevant and appreciated today. Reading it allows readers to enjoy a timeless literary work. Additionally, it addresses universal themes such as good versus evil, immortality, and repressed sexuality.
Lesson: Planning and strategy
The characters in the novel must develop careful plans and strategies to confront Dracula. In business, strategic planning is essential for long-term success. Anticipating problems and formulating strategies to address them are key aspects of business management.
5. A happy worldby Aldous Huxley
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What is it about
The story follows Bernard Marx, a dissident in a futuristic but highly conformist society, and his journey of self-discovery and rebellion against established norms. As Bernard explores the imperfections of his seemingly happy world, readers witness Huxley’s critique of the loss of individuality, alienation, and lack of true meaning in a society obsessed with comfort and pleasure.
Why should you read it?
Throughout the novel, Huxley criticizes society’s obsession with consumption, distraction, and entertainment, themes that remain relevant in contemporary society. The work offers a profound critique of how the pursuit of happiness can lead to alienation and the loss of essential human values.
Lesson: Balance between comfort and challenge
The society of the novel seeks to eliminate pain and suffering, but at the cost of the loss of humanity and individuality. Entrepreneurs can learn about the importance of finding a balance between comfort and challenges, as it is often in times of problems and failures that the most significant progress and learning occurs.
6. Neverwhereby Neil Gaiman
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What is it about
The story follows Richard Mayhew, an ordinary young man from London who, one day, finds himself in an unusual situation when he helps an injured young woman named Door in the middle of the street. This act of kindness drags him to an underground, parallel and mysterious world called “London Below”a hidden place under the streets of London that is inhabited by strange and dangerous beings.
Why should you read it?
“Neverwhere” touches on social and cultural themes, such as the invisibility of the homeless and alienation in a big city. The novel provides an opportunity to reflect on society and how we treat those less fortunate. Furthermore, it is a distinctive work by a great author such as Neil Gaiman.
Lesson: Teamwork and diversity
Richard joins a diverse group of characters, each with their own skills and backgrounds. This diversity is essential to overcome the challenges in “Neverwhere”. Entrepreneurs can learn to value and promote diversity of ideas and experiences in their teams to foster innovation and problem solving.
7. The Outsidersde SE Hinton
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What is it about
The story focuses on the lives of the Greasers, a band of working-class teenagers in 1960s Tulsa, Oklahoma. The story is narrated by Ponyboy Curtis, one of the members of the Greasers. Ponyboy and his friends, such as Johnny, Dallas, Sodapop and others, face a life marked by violence and rivalry with the Socs, upper-class youth. The narrative revolves around the tension and conflict between these two opposing social groups.
Why should you read it?
The novel addresses universal themes such as identity, loyalty, friendship and the fight against discrimination. These themes are relevant in any time and place, making the story accessible and meaningful to a wide range of readers.
Lesson: Value loyalty and friendship
The Greasers in the novel are a close-knit brotherhood. Entrepreneurs can learn about the importance of loyalty and cohesion in teams, as loyalty can strengthen corporate culture and increase employee morale.
8. The Historianby Elizabeth Kostova
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What is it about
The story follows a young woman whose name is never revealed, although she is Professor Paul’s daughter, who one day discovers a series of old letters and documents in her father’s library. These documents reveal the life and travels of her father, as well as her obsession with the historical figure Vlad Tepes, also known as Prince Dracula.
Why should you read it?
The novel is full of mystery and suspense, as the characters follow clues and discover secrets related to the figure of Dracula and the Order of the Dragon. This keeps readers intrigued and wanting to know what will happen next.
Lesson: Passion and perseverance in research
The protagonist of the novel, as well as her father, are willing to invest a significant amount of time and energy in historical research and following clues in search of the truth. Entrepreneurs can learn the importance of passion and perseverance in the pursuit of goals, as meticulous research and dedication are often key to success in business.
9. NimonaNoelle Stevenson
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What is it about
The plot of this graphic novel follows Nimona, a young metamorph with the ability to transform into any form she desires. She decides to become the apprentice of Lord Ballister Blackheart, a villain with a particularly ethical approach to evil. Together, they embark on a series of adventures as they attempt to confront Sir Ambrosius Goldenloin and the Institution of Authority, an organization that enforces the law in the kingdom.
Why should you read it?
“Nimona” is a graphic novel that combines elements of fantasy, superheroes and comedy in a fresh and original way. The story is exciting, full of unexpected twists and offers a unique narrative that will keep readers engaged.
Lesson: Creativity and thinking outside the box
The plot of “Nimona” often involves creative and unconventional solutions to problems. Entrepreneurs can benefit by encouraging creativity and innovative thinking in their teams and in their business approach.
10. Rhymes and Legendsby Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer
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What is it about
It is a work that reflects Bécquer’s romantic sensitivity and his fascination with the magical and the mysterious. The lyrical poems of “Rimas” express deep emotions, while “Legends” They offer stories wrapped in an aura of mystery and charm.
Why should you read it?
Bécquer’s “Legends” are short stories that combine historical and folkloric elements with a supernatural touch. These stories transport readers to various moments in Spanish history and are full of mystery and charm.
Lesson: Passion and emotion in communication
Bécquer was a master at transmitting emotions and passions through his poems. In the business world, the ability to communicate with passion and emotion can be effective when presenting ideas, products or services to customers, investors or employees.
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March Violante Martha Elena Violante (March Violante) is editor-in-chief and co-founder of Emprendedor.com and has more than 10 years of career in digital journalism. She has interviewed figures such as Randi Zuckerberg, Daniele Lamarre, Zoe Saldana, among others. She has worked in media such as Entrepreneur in Spanish and English, Alto Nivel, Cine PREMIERE, México Desconocido, among others. “We are entrepreneur.com”
2023-10-31 23:26:37
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