Diving into SAP consulting can feel like stepping onto a fast-moving train. You’ve got this massive ecosystem of enterprise software that’s powering businesses worldwide, and if you’re aiming to build a career here, it’s not just about certifications or online courses. SAP books offer that deeper, more reflective way to absorb knowledge—something you can revisit, highlight, and apply over time. Whether you’re a newbie trying to break in or a mid-level consultant looking to level up, the right reads can sharpen your technical skills, boost your soft abilities, and give you insider tips on navigating projects. In this piece, I’ll highlight some standout books that have helped countless professionals grow in SAP consulting. They’re a mix of career guides and module-specific dives, chosen for their practicality and relevance today. Foundational Career Guides Let’s start with the foundational stuff. If you’re just getting your feet wet, career-oriented SAP books are gold. They don’t drown you in code or configs right away; instead, they map out the landscape and show you how to position yourself. The Essential SAP Career Guide: Hitting the Ground Running by Tanya Duncan This one’s like a roadmap for anyone eyeing SAP roles. Duncan draws from her own experiences to cover job searches, interviews, and even picking the right module. What I like is how it includes chats with pros from different paths—consultants, project managers, you name it. It’s straightforward, with tips on building a resume that stands out and understanding SAP’s vast world. If you’re transitioning from another field, this book helps you hit the ground, well, running. It’s not overly technical, making it perfect for beginners, but even seasoned folks might pick up networking ideas. Around 200 pages, it’s a quick read that packs a punch for career planning. Success In SAP Consulting: An Eye-Opening Guide by Rahul Mathur Mathur gets real about the competitive side of SAP. He breaks down trends, like the shift to S/4HANA, and how consulting firms operate. You’ll learn about niches—think cloud integration or analytics—and ways to switch from your current gig. The book’s strength lies in its practical advice: avoiding common pitfalls, building expertise fast, and even dealing with cutthroat job markets. It’s eye-opening, as the title says, especially if you’re wondering about long-term growth. Mathur’s style is conversational, almost like chatting with a mentor over coffee. If motivation is what you need alongside strategy, this is it. The Road to Success: Transitioning from SAP End User to Consultant by Steven A. Palmer Perfect if you’re already using SAP in a day job and want to flip to consulting. Palmer covers the mindset shift—from routine tasks to problem-solving for clients. He dives into networking, marketing your skills, and handling client relationships. There’s stuff on time management and planning your career arc, with examples from real consultants. It’s comprehensive without being overwhelming, and the focus on lucrative aspects, like freelancing versus in-house, makes it timely. If you’re stuck in end-user mode, this book shows the path forward. Technical SAP Books for Deep Dives Moving to technical SAP books, these are where you build the muscle for actual consulting work. SAP consulting often means specializing in modules like finance, sales, or supply chain, so picking ones that align with your interests is key. SAP S/4HANA: An Introduction by Devraj Bardhan and Co-Authors This is essential because S/4HANA is the future of SAP—real-time data, AI integration, all that jazz. The book explains the basics: what it offers businesses, how it differs from older ERP systems, and deployment options. For consultants, it’s great for understanding architecture and extensibility. The authors, with their global experience, include case studies that show real implementations. If you’re consulting on migrations, this gives you the big picture. It’s updated regularly, so grab the latest edition for current trends. Around 500 pages, but the structure makes it digestible. Implementing SAP ERP Sales & Distribution by Glynn C. Williams For sales-focused consultants, this is a must. Williams walks you through configuring SD modules—from master data to billing and shipping. It’s hands-on, with tips for integrating with other areas like finance. What sets it apart is the focus on real-world scenarios: handling global sales, contracts, and even advanced pricing. If you’re starting as an SD consultant, this builds your foundation strong. It’s a bit older, but the core concepts hold up, and it’s praised for clarity. Consultants often refer back to it during projects. Configuring Financial Accounting in SAP ERP by Narayanan Veeriah On the finance side, this hefty tome—over 900 pages—covers everything from general ledger to accounts payable and receivable. Veeriah uses step-by-step instructions and examples to show custom setups. For consultants, it’s invaluable for matching SAP to client needs, like lease accounting or consolidation. The updated edition includes EHP 8 features. If FI is your jam, this deepens your expertise and helps with troubleshooting. It’s technical, so pair it with practical experience. Complementary Skills and Resources Don’t overlook soft skills books that complement these. For instance, “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie isn’t SAP-specific, but in consulting, client interactions are everything. Carnegie’s timeless advice on communication and leadership can make or break projects. Many SAP pros swear by it for building relationships during implementations. Beyond books, think about blending these reads with other resources. Online forums, SAP communities, and even webinars can reinforce what you learn. But books provide that uninterrupted focus that’s hard to beat. Wrapping It Up: Building Your SAP Library To wrap up, these SAP books aren’t just shelf fillers—they’re tools for growth. Mix reading with hands-on practice, like SAP trials or certifications, and you’ll see your career accelerate. Consulting is about solving problems, so use these to stay ahead. Whether you’re aiming for senior roles or specializing, investing time in them pays off. Pick one that resonates, dive in, and watch how it transforms your approach. Your SAP journey might just get a whole lot smoother.  

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The Tokyo Art Book Fair (TABF) returns in its 15th edition, expanding to two separate weeks for the first time, showcasing a diverse lineup of global art publishers and independent presses. This dynamic event is a must-visit platform celebrating the evolving landscape of art publishing. This year, the “GUEST COUNTRY” program spotlights Italy, exploring its rich publishing culture through exhibitions like YES YES YES Revolutionary Press in Italy 1966–1977 and OUT OF THE GRID: Italian Zine 1978–2006. Highlights include showcases by Corraini, an Italian publisher renowned for its innovative picture books by Bruno Munari, Enzo Mari, and Ettore Sottsass. Other features include a photography exhibition by Takashi Homma focusing on refugees worldwide, an archival presentation from Pace Gallery, and a festive “BOOK WRAPPING CORNER” with special wrapping papers designed by Bruno Munari, Norio Nakamura, and David Horvitz. The fair offers a packed schedule of talks, workshops, book signings, live performances, a kids’ area called “PLAYGROUND,” and community initiatives like “NEIGHBORS.” Visitors can also explore booths from brands like Sigma, New Balance, Bang & Olufsen, and more. Join us at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo from December 11–14 and December 19–21, 2025, to celebrate creativity, culture, and the future of art publishing. Tickets go on sale November 20th at 12:00 PM. Learn more at tokyoartbookfair.com. Venue: Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo – Address: 4-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0022 Admission: Online ticket (date and time designated) — General: ¥1,000 + ¥165 online booking fee (tax included) *Free for elementary school students and younger. ※Same-day ticket: ¥1,200 (available until 16:00 each day; sales end once sold out). A limited number of same-day tickets will be available. Dates: Week 1 Dates: 12:00-19:00, December 11 (Thu),  2025 Last Admission: 18:30 11:00-18:00, December 12 (Fri) -14 (Sun), 2025 Last Admission: 17:30 Week 2 Dates: 12:00-19:00, December 19 (Fri),  2025 Last Admission: 18:30 11:00-18:00, December 20 (Sat) – 21 (Sun), 2025 Last Admission: 17:30 About TOKYO ART BOOK FAIR TOKYO ART BOOK FAIR started in 2009; the first book fair in Japan to specialize in art publications.Held annually, it gathers independent publishers, gallery presses, bookshops as well as individual artists and groups. The fair has seen constant growth in its scale and content over the years, and the event now gathers more than 350 participants from Japan and abroad and attracts more than 20,000 visitors every year.At the fair, visitors can communicate with and buy publications directly from hundreds of publishers and artists who create unique and innovative art publications; they can also enjoy various events including special exhibitions, talks/panel discussions and film screenings.As the biggest of its kind in Asia, TOKYO ART BOOK FAIR aims to champion and lead art publishing culture in the region, and create the ideal opportunity for visitors to experience the ever evolving, vibrant arena of arts publishing. Photos by Henry Anim Del Rio 

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The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (UWRF) 2024, a premier literary and cultural event in Southeast Asia, will take place from October 23 to 27 in Ubud, Bali. Entering its 21st edition, the festival remains committed to fostering creativity, dialogue, and cultural exchange among writers, artists, thinkers, and readers from across the globe. This year’s theme, drawn from the Balinese-Hindu philosophy “Satyam Vada Dharmam Chara” (Speak the Truth, Practice Kindness), resonates with the current global climate, encouraging conversations about truth, compassion, and the human spirit. Each year, UWRF attracts over 200 international and Indonesian writers, alongside artists, activists, and thought leaders who come together to discuss pressing issues like climate change, human rights, politics, and the future of tourism. The 2024 lineup features high-profile names like Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa, British historian William Dalrymple, Indonesian author Dee Lestari, and sustainability expert Juliet Kinsman. Their participation ensures a rich program that spans discussions on literature, global issues, and artistic expression. The festival’s program is extensive, encompassing literary panels, book launches, film screenings, art exhibitions, workshops, poetry slams, and performances. It also includes special culinary events, where food lovers can explore local Balinese cuisine and its cultural significance. UWRF’s Main Program offers discussions on literature, politics, and social change, while the Art Exhibitions and Cultural Tours showcase Bali’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. A Youth Program also provides a platform for aspiring young writers to hone their skills and voice their ideas. Beyond the main schedule, the festival embraces inclusivity with free community events and intimate sessions where attendees can meet and interact with the featured speakers in more personal settings. The UWRF is a great opportunity to not only celebrate literature but also explore Bali’s unique cultural landscape, with Ubud’s serene atmosphere providing the perfect backdrop. The festival remains a must-visit for literature and art lovers, travelers, and anyone passionate about global ideas and cultural exchange. Tickets and full details of the program and speakers are available on the official UWRF website, making it easy to plan your experience ahead of time. Whether you’re looking to engage in meaningful conversations, enjoy world-class performances, or simply immerse yourself in Bali’s vibrant literary scene, UWRF 2024 promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.

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Lawrence Osborne’s “Hunters in the Dark” immerses readers in the mystique of Cambodia, weaving a tale of intrigue and self-discovery against the backdrop of its enigmatic landscape. Set amidst the lush jungles and ancient ruins of this Southeast Asian nation, Osborne’s novel captures the essence of Cambodia, from its haunting beauty to its dark undercurrents of history and culture. The story follows the journey of Robert Grieve, a disillusioned Englishman seeking to escape the monotony of his life by embarking on a spontaneous trip to Cambodia. As he ventures deeper into the country’s remote regions, he becomes entangled in a web of secrets and betrayals that lead him down a path of unexpected consequences. Osborne’s depiction of Cambodia is vivid and evocative, painting a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and sensations that transport readers to the heart of this mesmerizing land. From the bustling streets of Phnom Penh to the tranquil temples of Angkor Wat, the novel captures the essence of Cambodia‘s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. What sets “Hunters in the Dark” apart is its exploration of Cambodia‘s complex history and the lingering effects of its turbulent past. Osborne delves into the country’s dark legacy of war, genocide, and political upheaval, weaving these themes seamlessly into the fabric of the narrative. Through the eyes of his characters, he offers poignant insights into the resilience of the Cambodian people and the enduring scars of their collective trauma. At its core, “Hunters in the Dark” is a gripping tale of suspense and mystery, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Yet, it is also a deeply introspective novel that delves into the complexities of human nature and the search for meaning in a world fraught with uncertainty. In conclusion, Lawrence Osborne’s “Hunters in the Dark” is a compelling exploration of Cambodia‘s captivating landscape and its profound impact on the human psyche. Through its immersive storytelling and nuanced characterizations, the novel offers a poignant meditation on identity, destiny, and the enduring quest for redemption in the face of adversity. For those intrigued by the allure of Cambodia or simply in search of a riveting literary journey, “Hunters in the Dark” is a must-read.

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Lawrence Osborne’s “On Java Road” is a gripping thriller set against the backdrop of Hong Kong‘s tumultuous student protests and China‘s heavy-handed response in 2019. At the center of the narrative is Adrian Gyle, a seasoned British reporter with two decades of residency in Hong Kong. Gyle’s access to the city’s elites, facilitated by his charming yet reckless old university friend, Jimmy Tang, sets the stage for a riveting exploration of privilege, betrayal, and the quest for truth. The disappearance of a young woman, Rebecca, intertwines Gyle’s life with the dangerous world of frontline street protesters. Rebecca, a child of wealth and influence, embodies the dichotomy of Hong Kong society—a fearless activist marked by the blue dye authorities use to identify protesters. Osborne skillfully crafts a narrative that transcends the typical whodunit formula, placing the intricately drawn setting of Hong Kong at its core. Hong Kong pulsates with life on the page, its history, geography, and politics rendered with nuanced precision. Osborne’s command of the city’s complexities mirrors Gyle’s own sense of wistful alienation, capturing the jadedness that pervades a city on the brink of change. While some details, such as fashion and food, may occasionally overwhelm, they serve to underscore the book’s central theme: the inescapable complexity of Hong Kong‘s fate and the elusive nature of decisive solutions. The disappearance of Rebecca becomes a metaphor for the larger mystery of Hong Kong‘s destiny, one that defies simple explanations. As Gyle navigates through the shadows of truth and betrayal, Osborne skillfully immerses readers in a world where personal loyalties shift like the city’s ever-changing skyline. Through Gyle’s investigation, “On Java Road” becomes a haunting exploration of old worlds colliding with new orders, where the pursuit of truth comes at a perilous cost. Moody and compelling, “On Java Road” resonates with shades of Graham Greene and Patricia Highsmith, as Lawrence Osborne delves into the moral ambiguity that permeates the expatriate experience in Hong Kong. With its atmospheric prose and taut suspense, the novel leaves an indelible impression, inviting readers to ponder the timeless questions of power, privilege, and the fragility of human connection in a world where truth is as elusive as the city’s ever-shifting skyline.

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Crazy Rich Asians is a satirical 2013 romantic comedy novel by Kevin Kwan. Kwan claims the novel was loosely based on his own childhood in Singapore. The book focuses on Rachel Chu, Nicholas (Nick) Young, Eleanor Young, Astrid Leong and Edison Cheng. The story revolves around the grand wedding of Singapore‘s most eligible bachelor, Colin Khoo, and the supermodel, Araminta Lee, which everyone calls the wedding of the century. The novel became a bestseller and was followed by two sequels, China Rich Girlfriend in 2015 and Rich People Problems in 2017. A film adaptation of the novel was released on August 15, 2018. “The Book is Better than the Movie” is a ubiquitous slogan, but my belief in it was challenged when I read Crazy Rich Asians after watching the film. Typically, books provide more substance, context to plot points, and insights into character thoughts. Kevin Kwan, a Singaporean American, weaves a tale of love, wealth, and class in modern Singapore, following Rachel Chu and her relationship with the affluent Nick Young. Classified as Realistic Fiction with a Romantic-Comedy plot, Crazy Rich Asians stands out for its representation of Asian culture. The book’s success, selling over 1.5 million copies before a 300% surge post-movie release, is significant for Asian cultural representation in entertainment, with the film grossing 226 million dollars worldwide. Despite sharing similarities in plot and characters, the book lacks the depth audience crave after the movie. The abrupt change in perspectives without introduction is a glaring issue. Characters with distinct personalities become confusing when perspectives shift. However, some readers appreciate the multiple perspectives, finding them necessary for the story. On a positive note, Kwan’s inclusion of native languages, translated into English, adds an immersive quality to the book. Malay, Hokkien, Mandarin, and Cantonese phrases enrich the reading experience, providing an educational element. Despite some critiques, reading the book and watching the movie increase interest in Asian culture, achieving, perhaps, Kwan’s intended purpose. In conclusion, while I prefer the movie, it’s essential to acknowledge that without Kwan’s vision, both Crazy Rich Asians book and movie wouldn’t exist.

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This year, the 12th edition of Drukyul’s Literature Festival by Bhutan Echoes will be held from 4th to 6th August 2023 in the capital Thimphu. The annual literature festival, organised independently by Bhutan Echoes, a literature and arts initiative, aims to celebrate works of literature and arts by Bhutanese and international authors, thinkers, artists and influencers, and promote Bhutanese literature, culture and arts to the world. The theme of this year’s festival is ‘Reconnecting and Reviving’, an apt concept at a time when we long to find our way in a world that has changed so much, with more than 35 in-person sessions and programs that celebrate the diverse fields of literature, arts and culture. Visitors will get wonderful opportunities to experience evocative sights and sounds, stunning art exhibitions, music performances, interactive workshops, open mic nights, poetry readings, film screenings and more. The Drukyul’s Literature Festival also features a forum to explore the issues that we face in this new reality after the pandemic. This year’s exciting speaker lineup includes Professor Toby Walsh (Laureate fellow, and professor of artificial intelligence at the UNSW), Benjamin Flouw (Author and illustrator of The Golden Glow), Jean-Marc Rochette (Creator/artist and illustrator of The Snowpiercer), among others. The festival will feature esteemed speakers and new voices from India, Nepal, East Asia, Europe, and the US.

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The Tattoo Writer (2022), a book of photographs by Akimitsu Takagi and edited by Pascal Bagot. Known particularly for the novel Irezumi (1948), which sold several hundred thousand copies, Akimitsu Takagi—born in 1920 as Seiichi Takagi—made a mark on the world of crime novels in the Showa era. Although tattooing is central to his writing, the author’s photographic archives offer a unique record of this universe, especially the position occupied by women, away from the stereotypes. Discovered in 2017 by French journalist and specialist in Japanese tattooing, Pascal Bagot during a meeting with Akiko Takagi, Akimitsu’s daughter, these archives were unveiled in 2022 in the book The Tattoo Writer, which brings together 130 medium-format photographs. A collaborative history and work Akimitsu Takagi’s passion for tattooing, those involved with it and its enthusiasts echoes his own story. As a child, he was struck by the image of a tattooed woman in a bath. He moved closer to this world, and forged friendships within it when carrying out the preliminary research for his novels. The photographs taken between 1955 and 1965 document the work of the greatest tattoo artists of the time: Horiuno II, Horiuno III, Horigoro II, Horigoro III and Horiyoshi II, the latter being the tattoo artist based in the Azabu district. They present the tattoos done on clients’ bodies, and also those that adorn the members of the Edo Choyukai, one of the oldest (if not the oldest) clubs of tattooed individuals, and in various contexts, including outdoor gatherings. To produce The Tattoo Writer (in English and French), photographs were scanned from the original negatives, a project that was made possible by a crowdfunding campaign. The book includes statements from Akiko Takagi, Akimitsu’s daughter, and Gérald Peloux, a French academic who specialises in the history of crime literature in Japan. Pascal Bagot co-directed a documentary on the topic, La voie de l’encre (‘The Way of the Ink’) (2009). In 2014, he was the scientific advisor for the exhibition Tatoueurs, tatoués (‘Tattooists, Tattoed’) that was held at the Musée du quai Branly-Jacques Chirac in Paris. _________________________________________________________ Akimitsu Takagi (1920-1995) was one of the greatest Japanese crime writers of the 20th century. Crazy about tattooing, he entered this underground scene and documented it with his medium format camera. In the Japanese capital, he photographed the greatest tattoo artists of the time, their clients and their tattoos, thus constituting an archive of his time that is as rare as it is unedited. For this edition, the photographs in the book were scanned from the original negatives. These old documents are almost 70 years old and although they arrived in an exceptional state of preservation, they have been specifically cleaned and restored. Book release: May 2022. The Tattoo Writer: 200 pages – 134 photographs – Bilingual English/French – Three texts (“The Tattoo Writer” by Pascal Bagot; “My Father and Tattooing” by Akiko Takagi, daughter of Akimitsu Takagi; “Tattoos and crime novels” by Gérald Peloux, specialist in Japanese popular literature).  

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An ode to Haruki Murakami, this is one of the greatest literary figures in the world. Opened in October 2021, the Murakami Library in Tokyo – AKA The Waseda International House of Literature – is for the fans of the Japanese writer’s works. It is housed in the Waseda International House of Literature and has over 3,000 texts documenting Murakami’s works, including essays, short stories and novels. World-famous Japanese architect Kengo Kuma designed the building, keeping in mind the author’s nature and quirks. The use of curves inside the building, its white exterior and the wooden tunnel around the building symbolise Murakami’s use of the ordinary as well as his sweet, simple and kind-natured deposition. In true Japanese style, Kuma has worked on smaller sections for the visitors to explore. Explore Your Story, Speak Your Heart Inspired by Haruki Murakami’s speech on the occasion of receiving the Hans Christian Andersen Literature Award, Director Kei Shichiri created a theme film for the Waseda International House of Literature. The film speaks from a bird’s eye view of architecture and explores the relationship between people and books through the interplay of light and shadow. Tour of WIHL with Robert Campbell The Waseda International House of Literature opened its doors on October 1, 2021. What are the buildings most exciting features? What does each section of the library aim to accomplish? WIHL Advisor Robert Campbell tours the library, asking staff members about exhibitions (including the opening exhibition that ran through February, 2022) and future plans. This video, made by students from WHK, Waseda University Broadcasting Association club, explores WIHL’s charms down to the smallest details. Facilities Stair Bookshelf：Read Murakami’s books—and many others—in the STAIR BOOKSHELF, symbol of WIHL Cafe：Grab a drink in the student-run CAFE with a menu based on Murakami’s work Lounge／Pocket Park：Take time to relax with a book in the LOUNGE and POCKET PARK Author’s Study：Look inside a detailed replica of the AUTHOR’S STUDY Nameplate those who make donations to The Haruki Murakami Library Fundraising Campaign Gallery：Surround yourself in Murakami—in more than 50 languages—in the GALLERY Audio Room：Hear what Murakami is listening to in the AUDIO ROOM Reading Space：Come see Haruki Murakami’s bibliography in the READING SPACE. The price of a ticket is around USD 15. Visit The Haruki Murakami Library here  

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Book Title: Living in Sarawak Authors: Edric Ong – Luca Invernizzi Tettoni ISBN: 9780500017593 Publisher: Thames and Hudson Publication Date: 1996 Format: Hardback Sarawak, the East Malaysian state located on the island of Borneo, has fascinated Westerners for centuries – from its days as a Raj under the Brookes dynasty and later a colony under the British Crown to today’s vibrant multi-ethnic state. This book shows the dual influences of tradition and change found in its architecture and decorative arts. Architectural legacies of the Brookes days still coexist with Iban and Bidayuh longhouses, Malay villages and Chinese shophouses, and this book includes glimpses into the interiors of private homes, from contemporary architect-designed houses to centuries-old longhouses. The decorative arts of Sarawak, including the rattan basketry of the Bidayuh, beadwork of the Orang Ulu, carving of the Malay, brassware of the Melanau and ceramics of the Chinese, have all combined with the influences of 100 years of a romantic “White Rajah” reign under the Brookes to produce a uniqueness that is typically Sarawak Style.

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