Subject
Businessmen -- Fiction Books
Best books
Mark Twain
The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today
"The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today" by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner is a satirical novel published in 1873. It follows a poor rural family's attempts to strike it rich by selling their vast Tennessee land, while their adopted daughter Laura becomes a Washington lobbyist seeking congressional support. Meanwhile, two young men pursue fortune through land speculation. The novel skewers the greed, materialism, and political corruption of post-Civil War America—so effectively that it named an entire era of American history.
Sinclair Lewis
Babbitt
"Babbitt" by Sinclair Lewis is a satirical novel published in 1922. It follows George F. Babbitt, a middle-aged real estate broker who appears to embody the American Dream—success, conformity, and middle-class respectability. Yet beneath his comfortable existence lies growing dissatisfaction. When his best friend's life unravels, Babbitt begins questioning everything he once valued, launching into rebellion against social conventions. His journey explores the emptiness of conformity and the cost of living according to others' expectations in 1920s America.
William Dean Howells
The Rise of Silas Lapham
"The Rise of Silas Lapham" by William Dean Howells is a realist novel published in 1885. The story follows self-made businessman Silas Lapham, who builds a fortune in the paint industry but struggles to gain acceptance in Boston's aristocratic society. As the Laphams pursue social status through their daughters' prospects, a complicated romantic triangle emerges when Tom Corey, from an old-money family, takes interest in the family. Financial pressures mount while moral dilemmas test Silas's integrity, forcing him to choose between wealth and principle.
Hector Malot
Baccara
"Baccara" by Hector Malot is a novel written during the late 19th century, specifically published in 1886. The story centers on the Adeline family, particularly Constant Adeline, who is the heir to a long-standing fabric manufacturing business in Elbeuf. It explores the dynamics of family, business, and changing societal values as they navigate the complexities of industry and personal relationships. The beginning of the novel introduces the setting of Elbeuf, particularly focusing on the significance of the Puchot River in the industrial evolution of the town. Readers are introduced to the history of the Adeline family, who have built their fortune on traditional craftsmanship in the fabric industry. Constant Adeline emerges as a respected figure, working diligently in both business and politics. However, the text hints at underlying tensions; Constant’s brother, Jean, has pursued a different path, leading to financial troubles tied to a crisis in the fabric market. The opening portrays a rich tapestry of familial bonds and societal expectations, setting the stage for the challenges the family will face as they strive to maintain their legacy amid shifting economic landscapes.
Mary Roberts Rinehart
Dangerous Days
"Dangerous Days" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around Natalie Spencer, a meticulous and somewhat superficial hostess, and her husband Clayton, who seem to be living in a world of societal expectations against the backdrop of a looming war. Their dinner gatherings reveal the intricacies of their relationship and serve as a lens through which the complexities of their lives unfold, reflecting social dynamics, personal ambitions, and underlying discontent. The opening of "Dangerous Days" introduces Natalie, who is preoccupied with the details of hosting a dinner party, distracting herself from her strained marriage to Clayton, who is more introspective and aware of the deeper issues affecting their lives. As the guests engage in trivial conversations, the tension in the Spencers' relationship becomes apparent through their interactions and thoughts. Clayton is depicted as a man struggling with the weight of responsibility and conflicting desires, particularly as the world around them edges closer to involvement in the war. This initial segment sets the stage for exploring themes of duty, love, and the impact of external events on personal relationships.
Peter B. (Peter Bernard) Kyne
The Go-Getter: A Story That Tells You How to be One
"The Go-Getter: A Story That Tells You How to be One" by Peter B. Kyne is a motivational tale written in the early 20th century. This book can be categorized as a self-help story that focuses on the qualities and mindset required for success in both personal and professional life. The narrative presents the theme of determination and initiative exemplified through the journey of its main character. The story revolves around Cappy Ricks, a seasoned businessman who faces staffing challenges at his lumber and shipping company. After a dishonest manager absconds with funds, Cappy seeks a replacement who is capable and driven. He encounters Bill Peck, an ex-soldier with a disability who boldly requests a job. Cappy gives Peck a challenging task—locate and deliver a valuable blue vase within a tight timeline. The story unfolds as Peck overcomes numerous obstacles, displaying grit, determination, and innovation to complete the task. Ultimately, Cappy rewards Peck not only for his exceptional perseverance and commitment but also promotes him to a significant managerial position, illustrating the transformative power of being a "go-getter."
Arthur Conan Doyle
The Firm of Girdlestone
"The Firm of Girdlestone" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a novel first published in 1890. When a series of disastrous speculations bankrupts their respected business, John Girdlestone and his son Ezra turn to increasingly desperate schemes to save themselves. From diamond market manipulation to forced romance, their cynical plots spiral darker as they face financial ruin. When all else fails, murder becomes their final, sinister solution to reclaim their fortune.
Mark Twain
The Gilded Age, Part 7.
"The Gilded Age, Part 7" by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner is a satirical novel published in 1873. It exposes greed and corruption in post-Civil War America through intertwined stories of families chasing wealth through land speculation. A poor rural family attempts to sell their vast Tennessee acreage, while their adopted daughter Laura becomes a Washington lobbyist. Meanwhile, two young men pursue fortune through land surveying. The novel satirizes political corruption and social pretensions, ultimately giving an entire era its name.
Mark Twain
The Gilded Age, Part 6.
"The Gilded Age, Part 6." by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner is a satirical novel first published in 1873. This collaborative work follows a poor rural family's attempts to gain wealth by selling their vast Tennessee landholdings. Their adopted daughter Laura becomes a Washington lobbyist, navigating a world of political corruption and social ambition. Meanwhile, two young men seek fortune through land speculation. The novel satirizes the greed, materialism, and political corruption of post-Civil War America—giving an entire era its enduring name.
Mark Twain
The Gilded Age, Part 2.
"The Gilded Age, Part 2." by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner is a satirical novel published in 1873. The story follows a poor rural family's attempts to sell their vast Tennessee landholdings, focusing on their adopted daughter Laura, who becomes a Washington lobbyist seeking congressional support. Meanwhile, two young men pursue land speculation fortunes. This collaboration between Twain and Warner satirizes the greed, political corruption, and social pretensions of post-Civil War America, giving an entire era its enduring name.
Robert Barr
The Speculations of John Steele
"The Speculations of John Steele" by Robert Barr is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around John Steele, a resourceful young man who finds himself navigating the challenges of working on the railway, beginning as a station-master and ultimately moving up to a more significant position within the railway system. Through a series of events, Steele's quick thinking and actions save a train from disaster, leading to an unexpected promotion that throws him into the complexities of corporate politics and intrigue. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to John Steele during a harrowing night at Hitchen’s Siding where he must avert a potential train collision. His initiative and decisive actions manage to sidetrack a freight train just in time to prevent a catastrophe. Following this narrow escape, he is transferred to the division superintendent's office in Warmington City. In this new role, he quickly becomes well-liked; however, he faces resistance from T. Acton Blair, the general manager, who disapproves of his informal and hasty manner. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for an exploration of both Steele's internal struggles with confidence and the external pressures of his superiors and coworkers, setting the stage for his ambitions and the obstacles he must overcome in his career.
George Randolph Chester
The Making of Bobby Burnit Being a Record of the Adventures of a Live American Young Man
"The Making of Bobby Burnit" by George Randolph Chester is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Robert Burnit, affectionately known as Bobby, who is thrust into the responsibilities of managing his father's legacy after John Burnit's death. Despite his initial lack of business acumen, Bobby is determined to uphold his father's business, the John Burnit Store, but he must navigate challenges from both within and outside the company, including deceitful competitors like Silas Trimmer. The opening of the novel establishes Bobby's sudden transition from an idle heir to an unexpected business owner following his father's will, which outlines his path forward. This new responsibility is met with both excitement and trepidation as Bobby consults with Agnes Elliston, the woman he admires, for guidance. As Bobby interacts with various characters, including potential allies and adversaries, the narrative hints at conflicts arising from his naivety and the cutthroat world of business. The reader is introduced to the dynamics of Bobby's relationships and how they complicate his journey, setting the stage for both personal and professional growth as he navigates his newfound role.
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