Summary:
The New New Thing by Michael Lewis is a captivating book that delves into the world of Silicon Valley and follows the story of Jim Clark, a serial entrepreneur who constantly pushes the boundaries of technology and innovation.
Book Genre:
Non-fiction, Business/Technology
Main Topic:
The New New Thing explores the booming tech scene in Silicon Valley and analyzes the ambitious and often chaotic world of tech entrepreneurship through the lens of Clark’s career.
Key Ideas:
- Silicon Valley is a hub for entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators, all vying for the next big thing in technology.
- The rise and fall of companies in the fast-paced tech industry can sometimes be unpredictable and chaotic.
- Entrepreneurship requires risk-taking and persistence, and success is a combination of hard work and luck.
- Personalities and egos play a significant role in the tech world, often causing conflicts and fierce competition.
Main Parts of the Book:
- Part 1: Introduces Jim Clark as a successful, yet restless entrepreneur, and his quest to find the “new new thing” in the tech world.
- Part 2: Describes Clark’s relationship with his proteges and investments, including Netscape and his venture into the world of genetics.
- Part 3: Explores the rise and fall of Healtheon and the fallout with Clark’s partner and friend, John Doerr.
- Part 4: Follows Clark’s pursuit of his next venture, MyCFO, and the difficulties he faced in the wealth management industry.
- Part 5: Concludes with Clark’s decision to retire and reflects on his impact on the tech industry.
Key Takeaways:
- Innovation and risk-taking are essential in the tech industry, but success is not guaranteed.
- Egos and personalities can greatly influence the dynamics of a company and its success.
- The fast-paced and ever-changing nature of the tech industry can result in unpredictable challenges and opportunities.
- Silicon Valley is the epicenter of technological progress and attracts ambitious individuals and investments from all over the world.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
Michael Lewis is a renowned journalist and bestselling author known for his expertise in finance and sports. He has also written several books on the tech industry, including The Big Short and Flash Boys.
Target Audience:
The New New Thing is targeted towards readers interested in the tech industry, entrepreneurship, and the fascinating world of Silicon Valley. It also appeals to those curious about the inner workings and personalities behind successful tech companies.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
W.W. Norton & Company published The New New Thing in 1999, and it has since become a classic in the field of entrepreneurship and a must-read for anyone interested in the tech industry.