【Literature】Leadership Lessons from Cycling: Insights from Fumie Kondo’s Timeless Classic

Hello, this is Frank.

Allow me to share my thoughts on this work by quoting the insightful review found at the end of the book.

For me, this novel is the second work by Fumie Kondo following The Solitude Inside the Proton. Just like the first book, it quietly portrays the inner emotions of professional road cyclists, bringing their lives into sharp relief.

Though restrained in emotional intensity and dramatic developments, its modest approach—avoiding flashy tricks to stir the reader’s heart—is admirable.

“There are roughly two types of kings in this world: democratic kings and tyrants.” The review continues by questioning whether a king indifferent to others could exist.

In the context of road racing teams, this “king” clearly refers to the team’s ace. In the previous installment, Kume reigned as a tyrant before leaving Team Oji, leaving Ishio as the sole ace. Unlike Kume, Ishio does not behave arrogantly, which initially brought relief to his teammates. However, over time, a subtle unease began to permeate the team.

Ishio was simply too indifferent about everything. During two road races that followed, Ishio—the supposed ace—lost momentum twice and ultimately withdrew. What was the trap set for him?

“The idea that finishing a race is beautiful might apply to amateurs, but not in the professional world.” “Top athletes strategically plan which races they will peak for.” These thoughts from the leader “me” scattered throughout the story challenge readers to reflect on what professionalism truly means.

Following on from its predecessor, this novel offers valuable insights into management and leadership, making it a must-read masterpiece for business professionals.

Story Seller〈2〉 (新潮文庫)

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¥2,264から
(2025/4/14 15:07時点)

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Frank

■ Frank Yoshida is an award-winning author who made his professional debut in January 2009 after winning the Grand Prize in the “Gateway to Success for New Writers 2008” Contest, sponsored by Goodbook Shuppan, Japan. His acclaimed short love story, Hanarerarenaku-nacchau (“What Would I Do Without You?”), marked the beginning of his published literary journey. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Kobe University of Commerce. ■ Frank brings a wealth of international business experience to the table. With a strong background in Surface Mount Technology (SMT), he served as a technical adviser in key innovation hubs such as Silicon Valley, Hsinchu (Taiwan), and San Jose (California). His global career includes negotiating international investment disputes in the United States, advising in the leather industry, and managing timber import strategies. As a seasoned international business consultant and flexpatriate, he has worked extensively across North America, Latin America, Oceania, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Africa for leading trading companies and multinational clients. ■ A certified English expert, Frank holds ten prestigious English qualifications: UNATE (United Nations Association Test of English) SA Class, BEST (Business English Standard Test) A-Grade, Volunteer Interpreter Test (V-Tsuken) A-Grade, TOPEC (Nursing English) Perfect Score, Nissho Business English Proficiency Test Grade 1, Tourism English Proficiency Test Grade 1, Zensho English Proficiency Test Grade 1, English Vocabulary Test (TANKEN) Grade 1, EIKEN® Grade 1, and Japan's National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification. ■ Frank is also a passionate motorcycle enthusiast. He finds his ultimate freedom cruising along scenic coastlines aboard his beloved Suzuki Hayabusa GSX-1300R mega tourer. He describes the liberating experience in two words: “Stay aloof.”

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