Book Review: Exploring “The Notebook” by Roland Allen: A Journey Through Paper’s History

If you’re fascinated by how everyday tools shape history, The Notebook by Roland Allen is worth checking out. The book dives into the story of how notebooks have evolved over time, playing a crucial role in how we think, create, and document.

I enjoyed the read (more on that later) and believe that anyone interested in the topic would find this book to be a winner.

the notebook a history of thinking on paper book cover

A History of Thinking on Paper

Allen’s subtitle—A History of Thinking on Paper—accurately reflects the journey the book takes you on.… Read the rest

Doing Content Right Book Review

Title: Doing Content Right

Author: Steph Smith

Doing Content Right is a guide for writers wanting to be successful writing to an online readership. Both new and experienced writers can take something away from the book as it covers all areas needed to be successful, and as the author notes, this isn’t always just about writing.

Here’s a breakdown from the author: The Internet has created an age of infinite leverage. But with easy access comes competition.… Read the rest

Exactly What To Say Book Review & Summary

I just wrapped up reading Exactly What To Say by Phil M Jones – this was a great short read that gave me some wonderful ideas on how to better use concise language to get better results more quickly.

Which means what exactly?

Well, the book is laid out into short chapters focusing on the “magic words” that you can use to get the outcome you’re looking for more quickly.

For example, future pacing is addressed where you ask the question, “how would you feel if…” and fill in the blanks with whatever fits for your discussion.… Read the rest

Win Bigly Book Review

Win Bigly, by Scott Adams, was an interesting read from my POV – it sets a lot of powerful persuasion techniques forward in the context of the 2016 US Presidential campaigns.

Regardless of whether you want to know more about the campaigns or are tired of thinking about it (or living the results) there’s something for both sides. The campaign and election is used as the background of Win Bigly to weave the story and deliver some great details and higher level concepts dealing with persuasion, how to use it, how to “detect” it, and specific ways you can use these same ideas.… Read the rest

Building A Story Brand Book Review

 

On the recommendation of a copywriter friend (Adam Bensman at Brain Hickey – check him out!) I read Building A Story Brand while on the road a few weeks ago.

The book is an easy to read framework for realizing how to position your business or brand as a story that your customers want to be a part of. This is different than telling your customers a story about yourself or just making something up – you’re given the framework to tell the story (on your website, in your copy) about why your customers need your business.… Read the rest