The Upstarts Book Summary

In 'The Upstarts', Brad Stone delves into the riveting stories of Airbnb and Uber, two startups that revolutionized their industries. He explores the audacious visionaries behind these companies, their struggles, and the disruptive innovations that challenged the status quo. With a gripping narrative, Stone paints a vivid picture of the risks taken and the triumphs achieved in the face of skepticism. This book is not just a chronicle of success, but a reflection on the cultural shifts these companies initiated. Join the ride through the fast-paced world of tech entrepreneurship, where the future is being redefined.

By Brad Stone

Published: 2018

"In a world where innovation is the currency of success, the true pioneers are those who dare to challenge the status quo and redefine the future."

Book Review of The Upstarts

ONE OF AMAZON'S BEST BOOKS OF 2017 A look deep inside the new Silicon Valley, from the New York Times bestselling author of The Everything Store. Ten years ago, the idea of getting into a stranger's car, or walking into a stranger's home, would have seemed bizarre and dangerous--yet today it is as common as ordering a book online. Companies like Uber and Airbnb have redefined the way we live. And while they have become pervasive in our day-to-day lives, they are not universally celebrated. They are the result of a generation of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs who used technology to upend convention and disrupt entire industries. Led by Travis Kalanick of Uber and Brian Chesky of Airbnb, these are the upstarts, founders with an overabundance of self-confidence and a limitless drive that pushed them to rewrite the rules, better and sometimes for worse. Now with a new epilogue and updated throughout, The Upstarts takes us deep into the origins--and controversy--of these new titans of business.

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In a world where innovation is the currency of success, the true pioneers are those who dare to challenge the status quo and redefine the future.

The Upstarts

By Brad Stone