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37 pages 1 hour read

The Man Nobody Knows

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1924

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Book Brief

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Bruce Barton

The Man Nobody Knows

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1924
Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1920s

Publication Year

1924

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Bruce Barton's 1925 nonfiction bestseller The Man Nobody Knows, Jesus is revisionistically portrayed as a groundbreaking CEO who revolutionized the world with his organization, innovative parables, and modern salesmanship techniques, appealing to 1920s American businessmen by highlighting Jesus' leadership, masculinity, and strategic insights in communication and service.

Inspirational

Informative

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.1

487 ratings

68%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Bruce Barton's The Man Nobody Knows presents Jesus as the ultimate business leader, a perspective that ignited much discussion. Positive reviews highlight its innovative blend of religion and business acumen, whereas critics argue it oversimplifies complex spiritual themes. Overall, the book is noted for its provocative reinterpretation of historical and religious narratives.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Man Nobody Knows?

A reader who would enjoy The Man Nobody Knows by Bruce Barton is likely intrigued by the intersection of business and spirituality, much like fans of Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People. They appreciate historical perspectives on marketing and leadership, and enjoy narratives that offer unconventional interpretations of well-known figures.

4.1

487 ratings

68%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Character List

Bruce Fairchild Barton

An American author and advertising executive who reimagined Jesus Christ in his work, depicting him as a successful businessman and strong leader, blending religious narrative with characteristics appealing to 20th-century audiences.

Presents Jesus as a robust and charismatic leader, emphasizing his human qualities, sociable nature, and skill in leadership, which Barton contrasts with traditional portrayals.

Described as an influential but contrasting figure to Jesus, portrayed as a stern prophet admired by Jesus yet lacking in organizational ability, leading to the decline of his movement.

The mother of Jesus who is depicted as supportive yet perplexed by her son's actions, with Barton critiquing her theological glorification as diminishing the masculine in Christian tradition.

Presented as a quiet, influential figure in Jesus’ life, whose role as Jesus’ father and mentor is largely overlooked due to the focus on Mary, yet seen by Barton as an ideal parent.

Appreciated by Barton for his leadership and revolutionary religious ideas, Moses is portrayed as a strong but non-organizational figure whose foundation in monotheism is built upon by Jesus.

Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1920s

Publication Year

1924

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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