One Of 11 Books Selected For The JP Morgan 2024 Summer Reading List!

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Embark on an up-close and personal journey into the northern Peruvian jungle as last-chance entrepreneurs accidentally stumble upon a variety of cacao thought to be extinct, in this chocolate-rich business adventure memoir.

Take a front row seat to a family of entrepreneurs searching relentlessly for a sustainable competitive advantage in the wake of many failed attempts at starting a family business.

When they inadvertently discover the legendary Nacional white cacao bean in a remote canyon of the Peruvian jungle, the USDA calls it “an unprecedented discovery.” The cacao is so rare that even acclaimed author and travel host Anthony Bourdain and chef Eric Ripert trek to this particular jungle to film a segment for Bourdain's "Parts Unknown." With no job and no other way to earn a living, the author’s brother, Brian, moves to the jungle to live with cacao farmers—and Fortunato Chocolate is born.

The family soon realizes that their chocolate dream will only work if they reconceive and disrupt the supply chain. Instead of middlemen hoarding profits and keeping farmers in relentless poverty, they trade directly with them and produce what the BBC hails as "the Rolex of chocolate." Follow along as these intrepid entrepreneurs endure many heartbreaking near-victories and nail-biting adventures, ultimately shaking off failure and finding their competitive advantage in the humble white cacao bean and their ethical direct trade with the bean’s farmers.

Finding Fortunato is an inspiring and improbable tale that's infused with the indomitable entrepreneurial spirit, and revels in the gut instincts that lead to unimaginable success.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"I love chocolate stories almost as much as I love chocolate makers, and this is a good one. It's the swashbuckling, cinematic version of what it takes to be an international entrepreneur. It's not just about the chocolate; it’s about a journey we can all choose to go on."
—Seth Godin, Author, The Song of Significance

"A wonderful international business adventure about chasing dreams, never giving up, and the power of win/win relationships."
—Jon Gordon, 15x Bestselling Author, The Power of Positive Leadership

“This is the Indiana Jones of chocolate stories! Dan and Brian's heartwarming story and the entrepreneurial lessons of tenacity and value creation make for an incredible combination—like cacao and sugar . . . This is a feel-good story meant for the modern day.”
—Craig Ballantyne, Author, The Perfect Day Formula

“Throughout history, humans have sought the origins of beginnings. The discovery of the rarest cacao at the headwaters of the Amazon River is a journey of such exploration. Finding Fortunato, from cacao tree to chocolate, will take you on such an adventure.”
—Paul Edward & Crystal Mier, International Chocolatiers; Founders, Chef Rubber: Philanthropists; and Explorers

“Being part of the greatest cacao discovery of our generation bears responsibility for the owners of the land in the ‘Jurassic Park of cacao’ and the unique genetic material. Crafting the best chocolate from it is a sensual gift to the world. I am proud to be part of this amazing story.”
—Franz Ziegler, Award-Winning Author and World-Renowned Pastry Chef

“It is rare to read a story that truly transports you to a world of indulgence, intrigue, and adventure. So beautifully written . . . as if I walked every step of the jungle and tasted each bite along with the author.”
—Janice Feldman, Founder, JANUS et Cie, and Winner of Icon of Industry Award for Hospitality

About the Author

Adam Pearson is a successful entrepreneur who has been involved in growing several multimillion-dollar businesses across different industries. But his proudest accomplishment to date, besides having great kids and a wonderful marriage, is the success of his family business, Fortunato Chocolate. Along with his brother and father, Adam has been responsible for putting a rare and exquisite chocolate into the hands of tens of thousands of adoring customers all over the world.

Book

Finding Fortunato: How a Peruvian Adventure Inspired the Sweet Success of a Family Chocolate Business Hardcover