Books Like...

"Sneaker Wars" by Barbara Smit delves into the intense rivalry between Adidas and Puma, two global giants in the footwear industry founded by brothers Adi and Rudi Dassler. The narrative traces the origins of these iconic brands from World War II Germany, exploring the family feud that led to the split between the brothers and the subsequent competition that shaped the business of sports. Through detailed accounts of backroom deals, corporate upheavals, and the evolution of sports marketing, the book provides a comprehensive look at the intertwined histories of Adidas and Puma, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes shenanigans that defined the industry.

The writing style of Barbara Smit in "Sneaker Wars" is highly engaging and well-researched, offering readers a brilliant insight into the business of sports post-WWII. not only narrates the rise of these footwear giants but also delves into the broader implications of their rivalry on the commercialization of sports. With a focus on the intricate family dynamics, corporate strategies, and marketing innovations that shaped the industry, "Sneaker Wars" presents a captivating account of how these brands became synonymous with athletic success and global recognition.

Conspiracy of Fools by Kurt Eichenwald is a detailed and gripping account of the downfall of Enron, one of America's giants in the energy industry. Eichenwald presents a cautionary tale of corporate mismanagement, focusing on key players like Ken Lay, Jeff Skilling, and Andy Fastow. The book reads like a thriller, with complex business dealings explained in an understandable and engaging manner, making it a page-turner for readers interested in the Enron scandal.

The writing style of Eichenwald in Conspiracy of Fools is praised for its investigative depth and storytelling prowess. The book is described as a masterpiece in investigative economic journalism, comparable to a thriller by John Grisham. Eichenwald's ability to present the complexities and twists of the Enron story in an easy-to-digest format keeps readers engaged and provides a fast-paced journey through the scandal.

'The New Corporation: How "Good" Corporations Are Bad for Democracy' by Joel Bakan delves into the far-reaching power of corporations and offers solutions to address the issues arising from their influence. Bakan provides an illuminating and concise account of the relationship between democratic citizens and corporate entities. He discusses the limitations of a company's willingness to do good due to its financial mandate, as well as the potential threats posed by the increasing corporate power to democratic institutions and governance.

'Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal' by Eric Schlosser is a well-researched and compelling exposé on the fast food industry in the United States. The book delves into the social, economic, and health consequences brought about by the rise of fast food, exploring topics such as the treatment of workers in meatpacking plants, the impact on public health, and the environmental implications of mass-produced food. Schlosser's narrative style weaves together facts, stories, and insights, painting a vivid and disturbing picture of the fast food industry and its far-reaching effects on society.

Disneywar by James B. Stewart is a detailed account of the reign of Michael Eisner over The Walt Disney Co, focusing on the behind-the-scenes drama, conflicts, and power struggles within the company. The book covers Eisner's journey from revitalizing Disney in the 80s and 90s to his eventual downfall, highlighting his successes and failures in managing the entertainment empire.

The narrative style of Disneywar is described as flashy, entertaining, and filled with drama and conflict, resembling a Hollywood movie. Readers get an inside look into the personalities involved, with characterizations that make them seem larger than life. The book delves into the intricacies of Disney's growth and challenges under Eisner's leadership, providing rich insights into the politics, maneuvering, and power dynamics within the company.

'Bad Samaritans: The Myth of Free Trade and the Secret History of Capitalism' by Ha-Joon Chang presents a compelling argument against minimalist, laissez-faire state policies advocated by neoliberals, especially in developing countries. Chang advocates for a judicious mix of market and government intervention, emphasizing the importance of nationalization and state subsidies in defending budding industries in developing nations. delves into the consequences of free trade, protectionism, and the role of corrupt governments in speeding up bureaucratic systems in poor countries.

"No Logo" by Naomi Klein delves into the world of branding and corporate power, exposing the exploitative practices of global corporations and the impact of consumerism on society. Klein highlights the rise of brands selling ideas rather than products, exploring themes such as the loss of public space, domination of cultural discourse by global brands, and the detrimental effects of commercialism on communities worldwide.

'The Corporation: The Pathological Pursuit of Profit and Power' by Joel Bakan delves into the concept of corporations and their pursuit of profit above all else. Through a detailed analysis, Bakan exposes the unethical practices and motivations of corporations, showcasing how they prioritize financial gain over societal well-being. The writing style is insightful and methodically argued, providing in-depth examples and illustrations to support the premise that corporations operate as inhumane money-making machines. Bakan also discusses the legal background of corporations and the extreme consequences of their actions, highlighting the need for increased regulation and accountability.

"Confessions of an Economic Hit Man" by John Perkins is a memoir that delves into the author's experiences as an economic consultant working for the U.S. government. Perkins describes how he, along with others like him, manipulated developing countries into taking on large loans that they could not repay, leading to economic subjugation and exploitation by international corporations. The book sheds light on the inner workings of high-stakes economic games that benefit major corporations at the expense of third-world economies, ultimately revealing the dark side of U.S. foreign policy and industrial influence.

Barbarians at the Gate: The Fall of RJR Nabisco by Bryan Burrough is a detailed account of the hostile takeover of US conglomerate RJR Nabisco by various players in the corporate world. The book delves into the world of leveraged buyouts (LBOs), corporate shenanigans, and unfiltered greed on Wall Street during the 1980s. It presents a comprehensive narrative of the battle for control of RJR Nabisco, highlighting the larger-than-life characters involved such as Ross Johnson, Henry Kravis, and George Roberts. The authors provide meticulous research and a lively storytelling style that brings the saga to life, making it a must-read for anyone interested in business deals and understanding the intricacies of American business.