Summer book selection of the entrepreneurial group

In the RRA Koroška entrepreneurial group, we have prepared a summer selection of five books that each spoke to us in their own way. Among them are stories about finding one's own path, courage, perseverance, depth, relationships, knowledge, and inner shifts, without which there is no personal or entrepreneurial growth.

These are not classic book reviews, but personal recommendations – books that have captivated us, surprised us, calmed us, or made us think. Each one also brings with it a small entrepreneurial flash: a thought that can benefit anyone who is building their own path, developing an idea, or looking for a new impetus.

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The Bottom, Aljoša Hancman

Recommended by: Jure Knez, strategic leader in entrepreneurship

Summer tip: Creepy, terrifying, or maybe even real? If swimming in the sea is getting a little boring for you, the book The Bottom will make you look at your next swim a little differently.

Reading feeling: tense, creepy, mysterious, deep

Why it attracted me: As a Carinthian, I was attracted even before reading by the fact that it was written by the Carinthian author Aljoša Hancman from Prevalj. Nice proof that Koroška is not only strong in entrepreneurship, but also in many other areas. I was also interested in the setting of the novel – Dalmatia and Hvar, places that are very close and familiar to many Slovenians. In the end, the book gave me even more than I expected: a tense story, mystery and a blurred line between what is true and what is fiction. The main characters, whether you like it or not, force you to find answers to questions that we often don't dare or don't know how to ask ourselves.

What stays with me: The feeling that reality can be quite different than it seems at first glance. And that there is often a world hidden beneath the surface that we don't expect.

Entrepreneurial Flashback: In the book, the bottom (metaphorically) is closer than most of the main characters realize. The analogy with entrepreneurship suggests itself - the path between the top and the bottom in the entrepreneurial world can be very short.

Who I recommend it to: Those who like darker, more chilling novels. Readers who want something more, something deeper, besides a suspenseful story. Anyone looking for a summer read that is still much more than just light beach literature.

Invitation to read: The perfect summer read - not at all bland, not at all light, but still tense and mysterious. A book that allows you to disconnect while also raising questions about the world around us.

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The Alchemist, Paulo Coelho

Recommended by: Mirjam Ocepek, expert in the field of entrepreneurship

Summer tip: A book for anyone who wants to read something light, flowing, and inspiring this summer - a story that you can read on the beach, on a balcony, or on a quiet evening, but that will keep your thoughts on it for a while.

Reading feeling: inspiring, lifelike, simple

Why it appealed to me: The Alchemist is one of those books that at first glance seems like a simple story, but in reality it raises big life questions. The story follows the young shepherd Santiago, who leaves his familiar surroundings and sets out on a journey in search of treasure. Along the way, he meets people who teach him to listen to signs, trust himself, and understand that true treasure is often hidden where we least expect it. The book appealed to me precisely because of this simplicity – it doesn't force answers, but quietly invites the reader to reflect on their own desires, courage, and the path they are choosing.

What sticks with me: The idea that everyone has their own “personal legend” – something they feel they must achieve – sticks with me the most. It makes you wonder how many times we silence our dreams because we are afraid of change, failure or the opinions of others.

Entrepreneurial Flashback: For entrepreneurs and anyone building their own path, The Alchemist is a book about courage, perseverance, and trust in the process. It reminds us that beginnings are not always clear, the path is not always straight, but that we learn the most during the search, trials, and decisions. Like Santiago, an entrepreneur must often leave his comfort zone, follow his vision, and trust that every step has a purpose.

Who I recommend it to: I recommend it to anyone who is facing a new decision, starting their entrepreneurial journey, looking for inspiration, or wants a book that is not demanding to read, but still leaves a mark.

Invitation to read: Pick it up when you need a gentle reminder that dreams are not coincidences – sometimes they are the beginning of a journey.

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Oljka, Ana Nuša Kneževič

Recommended by: Boris Skudnik, project manager in the field of entrepreneurship

Summer tip: I recommend the book for reading on relaxed summer days because in such peaceful moments it gently reminds us of how important words, behavior, and relationships between people are.

Reading feeling: If I had to describe the book in a few words, I would say: behavior, respect, communication, and trust.

Why it attracted me: The book by Mrs. Kneževič, who is unfortunately no longer with us, attracted me because we live in a crazy world of impersonal relationships and extreme disrespect, even vulgarity. Both on a personal and business level. In business, it is not enough to have a good idea or product, it is also very important how we listen, present ourselves and build trust and relationships. Because entrepreneurship does not start with numbers and money, but with people.

What stays with me: The following thought, highlighted in the book, really stuck in my mind: "Things don't change, we change."

Entrepreneurial Flashback: I recommend the book because, without the "difficult" business jargon, it reminds you that every business or job starts much earlier than the "offer or sale" — namely, with the way you listen to someone, how you talk to them, how you enter into a relationship with them, and what impression you leave.

Who I recommend it to: I would give the book to anyone interested in relationships, communication, and the small gestures that make living with others more beautiful and kinder.

Invitation to read: Open the book when you want to hear between the lines how one person can make another person's day brighter with one word, look, smile, or gesture.

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Fifty Shades Freed, El James

Recommended by: Danijela Uran, SPOT consulting Koroška

Summer tip: A book for anyone who wants a break from their vacation, strong emotions, intrigue, and a story that can be read quickly, almost in one sitting.

Reading feeling: Passionate, tense, lighthearted.

Why I liked it: The book appealed to me mainly because of the dynamics between the main characters, their development, and the question of how much courage it takes to be yourself in a relationship while not being afraid of intimacy. It's a light summer read that combines romance, suspense, and personal trials.

What stays with me: What sticks in my mind is the idea that freedom is not always something that means being alone, but also the ability to set boundaries in relationships, trust, and make decisions that bring you closer to yourself.

Entrepreneurial insight: An entrepreneur or creative person can take away from the book the idea that courage, trust, clear communication, and a willingness to change are important for any journey. Just like in personal relationships, it is important to know what you want, where your boundaries are, and when it is time to step out of your comfort zone when building your own path.

Who I recommend it to: I recommend it to those looking for the perfect summer getaway, to anyone who likes romantic stories with strong characters, and to those who want a book they can take with them to the beach.

Invitation to read: Take it with you if you want to spend the summer with a story that is light, emotional, and just the right amount of tension.