Company : Book Review

"Company" by Max Barry is a brilliant and satirical novel that provides a humorous yet dark glimpse into the inner workings of the corporate world. The story revolves around the fictional company, Zephyr Holdings, where employees are constantly engaged in a ruthless internal battle to climb the corporate ladder. We follow the journey of Jones, a young man who starts at the bottom rung of the corporate hierarchy but swiftly gets entangled in the cutthroat world of office politics.

Barry skillfully captures the absurdity and toxicity that often pervades corporate environments. Each character in the book is well-developed and relatable, with their distinct quirks and motivations. The author's witty writing style keeps readers hooked, even as the plot explores darker themes.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Company" is its exploration of the sacrifices individuals make in their pursuit of success. As Jones rises through the ranks, he is confronted with challenging choices that force him to question his own morals and integrity. This examination of the human toll of corporate ambition adds depth to the narrative and encourages readers to contemplate their own values and priorities.

Additionally, the novel effectively critiques the corporate world's relentless focus on profit and efficiency, often at the expense of employee well-being. Barry cleverly exposes the absurdity of corporate jargon and management techniques, shedding light on the dehumanizing effects they can have on individuals.

In conclusion, "Company" is a thought-provoking and entertaining read that offers a sharp commentary on the corporate world. Through its engaging characters and biting satire, Max Barry delivers an insightful and compelling narrative that will leave readers contemplating the true cost of success.

What are readers saying?

Max Barry's novel "Company" has garnered a variety of responses from readers, presenting a balanced mix of praise and criticism. The author's writing style captured the attention of many reviewers, who found it engaging and entertaining. They appreciated the book's unique premise, delving into the mysterious inner workings of a corporation known as "The Company." Readers found the story thought-provoking, enjoying the fusion of humor, satire, and suspense that permeated the narrative. Reviewers noted that the book offered a satirical commentary on the impact of corporate culture on society.

While the writing style was praised, some reviewers found the plot of "Company" to be convoluted and difficult to follow. The multiple perspectives and shifting timelines hindered their comprehension of the story. Additionally, a few readers felt the characters lacked depth and struggled to form an emotional connection with them. Nevertheless, other readers appreciated the complexity of the plot and the gradual unravelling of the mystery surrounding The Company.

The intricate world-building in "Company" stood out as a highlight for many reviewers. They commended Barry's skill in constructing a detailed and immersive corporate landscape, complete with intricate systems and hierarchies. The author's exploration of power dynamics within the organization and employee manipulation garnered particular praise. Readers believed the book effectively portrayed the dark underbelly of corporate life and the extreme measures individuals take to climb the corporate ladder.

One common critique of "Company" was its pacing. Some readers found the book to be slow-paced, especially in the first half, which impacted their overall enjoyment. They believed the story took too long to gain momentum. However, other readers appreciated the gradual build-up, considering it necessary for the plot and character development.

Overall, Max Barry's "Company" received a mixed reception from readers. While many applauded the engaging writing style and thought-provoking concept, others found the plot confusing and the characters lacking depth. The book's world-building and exploration of corporate culture were widely praised, although the pacing was a topic of contention for some readers.

CompanyBook CompanyNovel CompanyReading