If it looks like a duck, talks like a duck, and walks like a duck, it has to be a duck, right? But what if it doesn't look like a duck, talk like a duck, or walk like a duck? Can it still be a duck? Apparently, it can.

While The Starfish Files is unlike any leadership-development book I've ever read, and I've certainly read my fair share of leadership books, it is a refreshing change. This short book is written like a novel. In fact, you get wrapped up in the characters of this book, just as you would a fictional novel. Told through the eyes of an ill-equipped manager facing unmotivated employees who are teetering on the edge of becoming victims of downsizing and outsourcing, the story takes you through the manager's journey of self-discovery.

Through the book, the author touches on the following seven core leadership skills that helped the manager overcome problems, boost performance levels, and generate an enthusiastic and motivated staff:

1. Create a considerate workplace.

2. Manage with emotional intelligence.

3. Encourage your staff to participate in problem-solving efforts.

4. Share positive and negative feedback often.

5. Bring a strong, developmental element to your employees' assignments.

6. Provide goals and directions that give the work context.

7. Be flexible.

While none of these principles are lightening-bolt shocking, they were to the manager in this story who discovered them one by one. It was refreshing to witness his discovery process and see how he handled each challenge.

And, in a world where the chief executives often forget that they must lead, not just govern, this book provides a quick reminder of the way things are supposed to be. It only takes a brief afternoon to read this book, but once you're done, you'll feel refreshed, recharged, and ready to ensure you've mastered the seven principles of leadership. And who knows, you may even want to head off to the beach to find your own answers along the shoreline.