Overview:

If you’d like to learn about the history of Instagram, and appreciate compelling journalism read on. Those of us who liked Nick Bilton’s “Hatching Twitter” will appreciate this current and relevant piece of work by Sarah Frier.

Here Is What The Book Was About:

Covers the lives of the Instagram founders, Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, their respective backgrounds, motivations, how they got connected to start the company, as well as their journey through the startup capital raising process. Also covers Facebook acquisition, the founders departure from Facebook, and current events on the product impact on society at large. There are a ton of great examples of people whose lives changed dramatically because of how they managed their Instagram pages, making the case that this product is more than just social media for sharing pictures.

Rating: (1 to 5)

Solid 4.05 rating based on the excellent story telling, and journalism. You can tell it was well researched with Sarah having deep access across Facebook and Instagram. It was a little long though.

Other Thoughts on The Book:

It focused more on Kevin’s life and hobbies rather than Mike’s. For instance you learn that Kevin was an avid cyclist and even learned how to fly a plane. With Mike, you only learn that he became a father after leaving Instagram.

Link to Book

Overview

Essentially a creation myth story on the entire universe, its creator, and the beings created to govern the worlds which were created. A timeless classic that establishes stargates, as a means to connect to different worlds, which are governed by gods who meet regularly to discuss issues of inter galactical concern.

Here is what the book was about:

Stargate is a sci-fi adventure about the creation of the universe. It was written in the 1980s and has no relation to the Star gate movie or television series. A mysterious book is found, the leaders of the various worlds are tempted to read it. Some do, some choose not to. An interesting and engaging epic that builds upon itself, and creates curiosity as you progress.

Rating: (1 to 5)

3.85 based on its elaborate writing style that while beautiful, sometimes leaves you missing the point of what is trying to be conveyed. The ending seemed rushed, unclear, and abrupt.

Other Thoughts on The Book:

No relation to the stargate movie or TV series. The concept is very creative and those interested in studying religion will find some ideas relevant and well thought out.

Link to Book