Seth is at it again.

As much as Seth seems to be on target, from time to time I find myself cringing at the arrogant, self serving nature of some of his commentary.  His continued support of Derek Sivers new book "Anything You Want" on The Domino Project (07/02/11) is a case in point. A reviewer (on Amazon) says, "These are excellent quotes. I’m definitely buying Derek’s book hopefully sometime in the near future.”

To which Seth responds, "Hey, it’s $9. It takes less time to read than a few blogs. No, the issue isn’t the time and the issue isn’t the money. The issue is that many products and services are things that some people don’t want to buy. Or at least buy now." Then he preaches to ignore the unbelievers, citing that 95% of the American public don't buy books on a regular basis... so write them off. Don't waste your precious time trying to convince them otherwise.

Really? Turn your back and just allow 95% of the American public slip one step further from literacy? C'mon. Maybe write something inspiring to encourage more literate behavior instead of assuming that every kid who got bored with college has the chops to become an entrepreneur.  If you believe that, a better read might be "Lucky or Smart?" by Bo Peabody. Just as quick a read and, at least from where I sit, probably more useful content.

I bristle at the blatant pitch, but will say this... I bought Sivers book and it should arrive in a day or so. I will read it. I will approach it with an open mind. If I have firmly stuck my foot down my throat, I'll make my mea culpa here. If the book turns out to be just another thirty something's get rich quick manifesto, you'll get that here as well.

On the bright side, I'm encouraged to discover that I'm in the "top" 5% of the American public. Maybe I should just be happy with that.

July 4, 2011   Permalink   Seth Godin - The Domino Project