Corporate spaces may seem boring and dreary, but they have immense material for storytelling. In this list, we discover the 10 best books based on office politics.
10 Best Books Based On Office Politics:
The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris
One of the only debut novels on this list, this one is a work of absolute brilliance and insane importance which deserves every accolade it has received. As the title suggests, it follows a black woman suffering microagressions at work. So when another Black woman finally joins the company, Nella is ecstatic. But her excitement devolves into something morbid when she begins receiving threats and dark messages. This is a compelling thriller and blunt social commentary, and definitely one of the best Books of the month.
The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger
This book follows Andrea Sachs, who is freshly out of college and lands a job that millions of girls are vying for – assistant to Miranda Pristley. Miranda is the editor of the prestigious and wildly famous ‘Runway’ magazine and a horrible boss. But as the duo gets to know each other, they realize that the workplace is more than just office politics – it’s a place to find your purpose.
Severance by Ling Ma
This book follows Candance Chen, who works in a sleek office in Manhattan. Then a pandemic sweeps the country, the Shen fever, which makes people repeat the same tasks over and over again. Professional lives are now forever different – companies shut down and people flee. But what are the consequences for Candace? Read this science fiction meets workplace fiction to find out.
Personal Days by Ed Park
The setting of this book is a NYC company, following the professional lives of people who work in it. Pru is a college grad and spreadsheet money, Laars who has workplace anxiety and Jack II who is obsessed with giving his co-workers backrubs. But things are soon about to change for everyone.
My Not-So-Perfect Life by Sophie Kinsella
This book is the story of Katie Brenner, who is stuck I a rut while her boss, Demeter Farlowe lives the dream life. While navigating tense office politics, a budding love life, terrible roommates and bleak rental home, she seems to be finally finding her place. But then Demeter fires her. She leaves for London to start a business, but then Demeter unexpectedly shows up, and reveals breathtaking secrets.
If I Never Met you by Mhairi McFarlane
Part romance, part office drama, this book follows the newly broken up Laurie, who dreads going to work because her ex works there. Jamie is the other protagonist, who is a playboy at heart but needs a girlfriend to impress his bosses. So the two start a fake romance, sending sparks through the workplace but also creating complications – complications of love.
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
This enemies to lovers romance set in a workplace called Bexley and Gamin. Lucy Hutton is nice to everyone and loved by anyone in the office – except Joshua Templeman. They share an office – and the tension is high as they try for the same promotion. But amidst the competition, Lucy begins having dreams (very dreamy dreams) about Joshua, and he seems into her too. Thus a beautiful romance unfolds.
Who Moved My Blackberry by Lucy Kellaway
This is a book told entirely in the form of email messages to and from Martin Lukes, a hilariously condescending man. Lukes is rude, selfish, self-seeking and a hypocrite – a deranged but funny protagonist. As he politicizes his office, a wonderful and engaging story emerges.
In Your Dreams by Tom Holt
J.W Wells and Co. is an interesting company. But it is also very sinister. It offers lucrative promotions and offers to its distracted employees, but they have to pay a price for it. Paul Carpenter is one such victim of the scam, and his romance has only complicated everything.
Coffee Breath by Beth Labonte
This book follows Jason Flynn, who must work at his mother’s office as a punishment for being naughty. He hates the prospect, and the corporate world is a new world for him. But as he begins work, he realizes the nits and grits of the corporate world, which leads to his personal and professional growth.
Also Read: 7 Best Books Based On True Stories
