"Extremely Online" by Taylor Lorenz is a groundbreaking social history of the internet that explores how online influence and the creators who wield it have reshaped our world. Taylor Lorenz, an acclaimed Washington Post reporter and authority on internet culture, takes readers on a journey through the evolution of the online creator economy. From the early bloggers who monetized their personal brands to the rise of TikTok creators redefining fame, Lorenz examines how the internet has transformed our desires, behaviors, and economic landscape.
WhattoExpect:
Readers can expect a comprehensive exploration of the internet's profound impact on society. Lorenz combines serious journalism with engaging storytelling to reveal how the internet has disrupted traditional norms and institutions. The book offers insights into how social platforms have empowered individuals, transformed content consumption, and created new opportunities for fame and success. It provides a deep understanding of the social and economic changes brought about by the internet.
KeyTakeaways:
The Internet Revolution: "Extremely Online" unveils the internet's role as a revolutionary force that has challenged established norms and created a digital landscape where individuals can amass influence and wealth.
Creator Economy: The book delves into the emergence of the creator economy, showcasing how ordinary people turned their online presence into profitable careers and businesses.
Content and Connection: Lorenz explores how social media platforms have redefined our expectations of content and connection, leading to a new era of online interaction and entertainment.
Reinvention of Fame: By examining the journeys of bloggers, vloggers, and TikTok creators, readers gain insights into how fame is no longer confined to traditional celebrities but is accessible to anyone with an internet connection.
Inspirational Quote:
"The internet is not a vacant fad; it is the greatest and most disruptive change in modern capitalism." - Taylor Lorenz, "Extremely Online"
This quote highlights the book's central message that the internet is not just a passing trend but a transformative force that has reshaped our world and our understanding of the digital age.