Just a few moments ago I've finished reading the "The Deadline: A Novel About Project Management" by Tom DeMarco. It was an interesting read. Although I have to admit that fiction side was somewhat weak, from educational standpoint book is great. The idea about Mr. Tompkins' is just brilliant. You can review his notes in Excerpts from The Deadline. In this book there is a wonderful chapter (Roll of the Catalyst) about importance of informal education. motivation, inspiration (what not) by telling different stories. In about the time I was reading this chapter I saw the post Tell New Stories to Make the Lean Change. And I agree that appropriate story in a right moment is a very powerful tool in getting things done the right way. Stories teach you something without boredom of abstract theoretical knowledge and produce much more sustainable result.