Calvin Barry Schwartz Publishes Two Books in 2025

Former Executive Releases Kirkus Star–Winning Novel and Business Fable

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Calvin Barry Schwartz, a New Jersey–based author and recent Rutgers University lecturer, released two books over the last two years that span literary fiction and business nonfiction, marking an uncommon dual-genre publishing effort later in life. At age 78, two years ago, Schwartz published "There's a Tortoise in My Hair: A Journey to Spirit", a literary novel examining identity, spirituality, and personal transformation. In December 2025, he released "Ten Things I Learned from the Billionaire: A Business Fable", a leadership narrative informed by his professional experience in corporate management.

Why it matters

Schwartz's publishing accomplishments at an advanced age challenge common perceptions about creativity and productivity declining in later life. His ability to successfully publish works in both literary fiction and business nonfiction genres demonstrates a versatility and continued intellectual vitality that defy stereotypes about older adults.

The details

Tortoise received a Kirkus Star and additional literary recognition for its narrative voice and thematic exploration. Reviewers highlighted the novel's blend of humor and introspection in its exploration of aging, loss, and meaning. Ten Things I Learned from the Billionaire was co-authored with Kae Wagner, founder of the Bold Authors Network. The book presents a fictionalized mentorship between a young professional and a private business leader, structured around ten lessons drawn from Schwartz's years working in executive environments.

  • Schwartz published "There's a Tortoise in My Hair: A Journey to Spirit" two years ago, at age 78.
  • Schwartz released "Ten Things I Learned from the Billionaire: A Business Fable" in December 2025.

The players

Calvin Barry Schwartz

A New Jersey-based author and recent Rutgers University lecturer who published two books spanning literary fiction and business nonfiction later in life.

Kae Wagner

The founder of the Bold Authors Network, who co-authored "Ten Things I Learned from the Billionaire" with Schwartz.

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What they’re saying

“This novel is about what happens when success, spirituality, humor, and despair collide—and how meaning is rebuilt when life strips away the illusion of control.”

— Calvin Barry Schwartz, Author

The takeaway

Schwartz's publishing accomplishments at an advanced age challenge common perceptions about creativity and productivity declining in later life, demonstrating a versatility and continued intellectual vitality that defy stereotypes about older adults.