White Man’s Numbers by Sunil Shah
I READ a business book every week (which I review in this
column), and reserve the December break for novels.
If you are passionate about business, you might choose for
your December reading a novel with a business theme set in the financial
arena. If you believe South Africa is at least as interesting as any other
country and more interesting than most, you might choose a business novel with
South Africa as its setting.
If you can’t get your mind away from South African
current affairs, it might add to the mix to toss in racial and political issues
as well. Perhaps some complex relational issues just to finish it off?
And there you have White Man’s Numbers by Sunil Shah.
The four principal characters, Christopher, Margaret, Ravi
and Jacob, are seconded by their firm,
Pluto Asset Management, to open an office in Cape Town as part of the drive into
emerging markets. The office is headed by Christopher, with the services to be
marketed by Margaret.
Ravi is a young analyst of Indian descent with a keen
numerical facility and a superior intellect. Jacob, Ravi’s counterpart, is an
Oxford graduate and the son of a well-connected ANC member.
The book opens pretty much where it ends - with the
disintegration of Ravi’s world starting with his relationship with Anjali, the
girl who left London to be with him in Cape Town.
Then the narrative reveals
the events that led to the breakdown of their relationship. In the process we
learn more about Christopher, Margaret and Jacob who are plausible and
recognisable people who populate so many companies.
We are also exposed to the worst aspects of an industry where
money can be earned by making correct decisions about the success or failure of
those who generate wealth. The story touches on the worst aspects of South
African business practice, and a set of problems that feel very familiar.
It is a light holiday read, not a business book, but the
story that unfolds will hold your attention to the end.
- Fin24
Tell us about your best business holiday read and you could win one of two copies of White Man’s Numbers.
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