Dreamlike Serbia

Many people have experience working in an office or on a shop floor, and along the way they encounter moments of joy, satisfaction, disappointment, or even pain. These emotions are not confined by nationality-they are part of the human condition that nearly everyone faces at some point.

This book tells the story of Wang Xiangyang, a director at a Chinese company, during his business trip to Serbia. It follows a series of events involving language barriers, cultural differences, local policies, logistics, recruitment, payroll management, team leadership, procurement, and more. Throughout this journey, there are moments of novelty and hardship alike-each testing the wisdom and resilience of the Chinese management team.

Because Xia Xiaoqing, the candidate hired for the position of General Office Director in Serbia, never showed up after joining the company in China, Wang Xiangyang's short-term assignment was extended, leaving him torn over whether to stay in Serbia long-term. As he tackles one problem after another and uncovers more of the truth behind the scenes, his mindset shifts from proactive problem-solving to a firm decision to resign and return to China. The novel traces this psychological journey in full, and in doing so, prompts him to reflect on the future of his own career.

The story is full of twists and turns, with many surprises around every corner.

I hope this book gives you a glimpse into how Chinese managers think and operate, as well as how ordinary employees tackle tough situations. If it helps build a little understanding between cultures, that would mean the world to me.