Fish: A Proven Way to Boost Morale and Improve Results

This story about management also takes its cue from an unexpected source, but this time it's the lively fishmongers at Seattle's Pike Place Market. Authors Stephen Lundin, Harry Paul, and John Christensen refer to the Fish! protagonist, Mary Jane Ramirez, as a "toxic energy dump." She is expected to turn around her company's struggling operations department. Mary Jane is a newly bereaved mother of two. The majority of rational minds would fold their tent and go on. What use is this group of losers? However, Mary Jane is not given an easy time by the writers. Rather, she is left to handle this situation with Lonnie, the chief fishmonger. Fish!, which is based on a best-selling corporate education film, attempts to guide workers toward a joyful and engaging work environment. While some may find the narrative and suggested practices—like "Make Their Day," "Choose Your Attitude," and "Be Present"—totally ridiculous, others will discover some really valuable motivational management strategies. There's a lot to enjoy here if you like Who Moved My Cheese? And Mary Jane and the children are not a concern. Fish! has a pleasant conclusion for everybody involved. —Edward C. Harry