Zenobia: The Curious Book of Business by Matthew Emmens and Beth Kephart

 If you're tired of "gifting" the same old business management book every year, rejoice because this season hearkens a fantastic book on business culture, leadership and strategy. The book is titled "Zenobia: The Curious Book of Business...A Tale of Triumph over Yes-People, Cynics, Hedgers and Other Corporate Killjoys."

The book is penned by Matthew Emmens, previous CEO of Shire Pharmaceuticals, who was last week named its new non-executive Chairman of the Board. Emmens has been featured in leading magazines including a Forbes profile and was most recently named one of the UK's most influential Americans.

Co-Author Beth Kephart is a National Book Award finalist and winner of the 2005 Pew Fellowships in the Art Grant. And it is illustrated by William Sulit.

Marshall Goldsmith said of the book, "What leads an organization to greatness is often very different from what enables it to continue to grow and develop. Zenobia shows us the essence of what it takes for a company to change. It tells a story that matters for leaders at all levels."

The book itself is a reminder that business books don't have to be dry treatises on management, but can instead be an engaging and actionable tale of how teamwork, courage and vision are integral drivers of long-term success. The book also reminds us how enthusiasm, conviction, and courage can transform even the most stubborn personalities or culture.

I particularly liked the book because it presents a very hopeful and engaging story that encourages us to, quoting from the book, "Look for what could be, not just what is."

Zenobia will inspire and enlighten you and it's the perfect book to start the New Year with.