Sometimes I read books because I want to.  Being in school, I usually read books because I have to.  In either case, it is nice to have someone else summarize the book for you, like this video summary of “The Long Tail”:

http://www.readitfor.me/2009/05/book-summary-10-the-long-tail-by-chris-anderson/

Reasons why I like this:

  • It is entertaining
  • It can provide a good mental “glue” as I dive into the detail in the pages
  • I think you can get 50% of the value of a book in these summaries.  What is important is the main thesis.  Much of the rest is context and filler.  Often times you can support the thesis with your own experience.
  • Professors often ask for summary analysis.  Shortcut?  Sure.  I call it efficiency.

Disclaimer in case my professor is reading this:  I am reading the book in its entirety.  :)