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badgers_unite's review

3.0

Interesting from a recent historical point of view. If you are interested in how Hi-tech companies get started and the people who start them, then you'll probably like this. It contains some of the author's advise and philosophy. He toots his own horn somewhat, but it's not too annoying.
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sketchnsew's review

4.0

It was great to hear the stories about all the risks he took to get where he is now. Also, his wife is amazing for taking these risks as well & they were not even married at the time. A great example of true love. Biz Stone’s stories prove that if you have the passion for it, the risks will be worth it. Very motivational.

allisonarthur12's review

5.0

I read Biz Stone's new book cover to cover in one sitting. He shares stories of failing and misstepping yet never straying his instincts, which has inspired me to reevaluate my priorities - personally and professionally.

The last 50 pages focus on his altruism and vision of a better world. He explains how the neutral sharing of information can improve situations for those less fortunate. I found Biz's chapter titled "A New Definition for Capitalism" particularly enlightening. It shifted my view of corporate responsibility from that of a good PR move and culture-generating concept to a catalyst for a better world.

Overall, Biz seems incredibly authentic. His stories are full of honesty, and many of my favorite lines from the book are along the lines of, "That probably wasn't the best idea," or "In retrospect, maybe I shouldn't have done it like that." Yet, he doesn't seem to be apologizing for his actions either - after all, that's how he got where he ended up. He's honest about his experiences and life lessons. I love that.

Great read! I highly recommend finding a copy of this book asap.

davonnerochelle11's review

4.0

This book took a lot longer to read than it should have. That's not a knock against the book, that is a consequence of reading so many non-fiction/self help business books. They all sound the same until you get to that one part that separates this book from it's peers. That particular thing for Biz Stone's book was his emphasis on altruism and empathy.

On the surface, this book is about what it takes to initiate a start-up business and make it successful. If you dig deeper you realize you're actually learning what it takes to be a better human being. To care for your fellow citizen of the world; to understand what it means to be a member of a society. The fact that this book is about how Biz started a social media platform is ironic. He illustrates through his involvement with Twitter how easy and vital it is to stay connected with the people around you. Though that is not in anyway ironic. The irony is not so much in his words but in the implied opinion of society abou social media. That it has deteriorated our connection with each other. In his chronicling of his experience with Twitter on through to Jelly, he shows you how to recreate that intimate connection with your neighbor and fellow man. It really is inspiring.

He also shows how corporate businesses can be more socially conscious via altruism and empathy. He shows how to put the human aspect back into business. I think this book is valuable. I was reminded of a lot of things I had let slip my mind. Glad I read it.

mikeplewis's review

3.0

Pretty good and easy read. Some good stories about how Twitter got started and the pain they felt when trying to grow. More fluffy than most business books, but a super quick read

fbroom's review

3.0

I'm not sure about this one. I did enjoy listening to it and I felt that Biz was really genuine, but it was short and didn't have much content.
Maybe it was too early for him to write this book ...

He didn't go into much details about everything. He talked about some stories here and there, the overall growth of twitter from a small startup to a large successful company. He talked about the importance of giving back to society a lot.

3-4 stars ...

shadybanana's review

5.0

140 characters review: A really good book/guide; left me inspired and awed. Biz is so cool.All anecdotes were linked.Trying out Jelly now :D

rileyclarke_'s review

3.5
informative inspiring reflective slow-paced

scarletohhara's review

5.0

Biz is a passionate, creative and people focused leader, and ask of that is reflected in the stories he tells in this book.
I love the personal touch, the honesty behind the emotions expressed in the book and the passion Biz showed through out his life to do the things he wanted to do.
In his own way , Biz is like Steve Jobs, making his story from rags to riches, all the while being true to himself. Very inspiring.

emilyamills's review

3.0

Interesting, behind-the-scenes look at tech start-ups and twitter. Not revolutionary, but a great read for anyone interested in tech and twitter.