Synopsis
- The protagonist is Sumire Kato, a woman in her 30s working in the cosmetics industry.
Just as she begins to feel dissatisfied with her relaxed, mostly remote work routine, she is suddenly fired. - In her despair, through conversations with Hello Work and people around her, she recalls her former dream of starting her own business.
- A book lover, Sumire decides to launch a service that allows people to meet others through books.
- However, she has no skills, connections, or funds. All she has is a passion for books.
- She visits entrepreneurial acquaintances, raises funds, gathers partners, and designs services, but she moves forward step by step despite encountering real-world obstacles.
- Despite struggling with her career and love life, Sumire searches for a way of working that suits her, and eventually takes the big step of starting her own business.
Review
■Startup Bubble
When did the term “startup” first become so widely known?
When I was job-hunting in the late 2000s, I never heard of it.
To begin with, I don’t think there’s a strict definition of a startup company; it’s a narrower definition than a venture company, describing a company that was founded recently and is expected to make great strides in the future.
Universities are also expected to create startups, and it feels like there’s a bubble-like amount of money flowing through them.
This book really gives you a sense of the startup world. The descriptions of business plans and financing feel realistic, and I imagine the author’s own experiences are included.
Come to think of it, the Korean drama Startup was also quite interesting.
■An Analog World
Startups are often thought of as companies that are loaded with the latest technology, including SaaS, and that further accelerate the digital society.
Given the potential for significant growth, it’s only natural that some kind of digital or innovative technology would emerge as a backdrop.
The startups featured in this book are book-themed.
I liked this.
Publishing and bookstores are often thought of as declining industries. While I understand this is inevitable, it’s an industry I love, so I found a startup based on book selection to be very appealing.
■What is work?
Well, this book begins with the protagonist being fired from his company.
I imagine that starting a business is much harder than living as a salaryman.
The book also depicts some very difficult situations. At the same time, I get the sense that the protagonist is living a vibrant, fulfilling life.
Money is an inseparable part of work, but if you’re struggling with your job, it’s good to consider other options.
If I were to choose my next job, I’d like one that doesn’t require using a computer.
