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TONY CHIAPPETTA

Chief executive officer, Chiappetta Shoes

“Oracle Bones: A Journey Between China’s Past and Present” By Peter Hessler

FOR THOSE in the shoe business, understanding the supply chain is more important than ever, said Tony Chiappetta, chief executive officer at Kenosha-based Chiappetta Shoes.

“Oracle Bones” by Peter Hessler opened his eyes to what life is like in China, one of the world’s largest footwear producers. The 2007 New York Times Bestseller was recommended by “a well-seasoned shoe dog” from New Zealand, Chiappetta said. The two were talking shop one day a few years ago.

“Now this guy has stories for days, including a few goodies about the time he was working directly with Phil Knight, founder of Nike, to locate and contract cheap and consistent manufacturing in China,” said Chiappetta.

“Oracle Bones” is based on the stories of people whose lives were shaped by China’s rapid economic growth at the turn of the century.

“The book offers a gripping perspective of communism in real life,” Chiappetta said. “I’m a student of the game, love history, and very much recommend this book.” n