The Elephant And The Flea: New Thinking For A New World

Charles Handy has such an approachable writing style - a real pleasure to read. Given this book was written twenty years ago is amazing how much of what he warned of then has come to pass. A classic.

I read this book several years ago and got a real buzz out of it. Excuse the pun! I was already embarked on a portfolio lifestyle, but only just setting sail at that stage. Now, several years later, I find I constantly refer to this metaphor, of the fleas and elephants, as I see so many people exiting the world of corporates and joining the swarms of fleas. If you are just moving into such a situation, I would recommend reading this book. I think you might find it quite heart warming and possibly informative

I have enjoyed many of his books in the past but I wasn't really very impressed with this. There were some interesting autobiographical bits and some good advice on portfolio careers. Mostly though it was very vague and slight.

If you are seriously considering how you want to balance your work and private life then this is a really good book to get you thinking differently. The concept of 'chunking' is very interesting and I have recommended the book to several people (admittidly more mature friends in thier 50's, late 40's), to consider a different way of working.

Unlike other business books this one has the advantage of being an easy and fast read. Because it it at times autobiographical, it is one of those books you may read on your couch and not necessarily at your desk. It gives you illuminating insights into what the business worls has become and how it may evolve. I found it thought provoking and at times truly inspiring.

Will certainly purchase used books from this supplier again as the quality of the book was outstanding and I received the book quickly after I ordered.

The book is mostly an authobiography and reflection on Handy's religion. Handy clearly had no real thoughts on the Internet age bursting since he both said it was good and bad . I think he wrote half before and the other half after. The last couple of chapters are new material, he describes the concepts of the balance of work, hope life and charity work. This is all done through example to himself. Quite thought provoking on how to structure your life but easily said from one who gets royalties for so many books. This all would have been better written earlier in his life. Still worth reading, one of the best social scientists in the world.