This book fluctuates between brilliance and madness. When it focuses on the mechanics of start-ups, it’s great. When it focuses on Thiel’s philosophies, it’s a bit whacky. Thiel enjoys being a contrarian. Doing something new and valuable may require being a contrarian, but just being contrarian doesn’t mean your ideas are new and valuable. Worth reading if you’re interested in start-ups, but be prepared to skim and shake your head.
