I’ve written two books now, and the hardest part of the process is trying to get people to read (before or after it’s published). Bitcoiners are generally better at this, but friends/family/people in my everyday life…nothing. Won’t even start reading. Why do you think this is?
I have some theories, but I’d love to hear your hot takes.
Time and/or interest in the topic. Also short attention span.
Asking a specific someone to read your book is a big ask. Takes much more time than helping someone move. Feels like assigned hw with the added social awkwardness of answering the inevitable “what did you think?”. I have a friend who has written a few novels. Puts added pressure on our friendship.
Much better to offer strangers an opportunity to choose to read your book, those who choose will more likely enjoy the process.
I like this. Makes sense.
Some people dread providing honest or frank feedback to people they like or know well.
Might be useful (for example) to say to a friend, “I really need feedback on chapter 2 for an idea I have for a future project. When you have time, could you do a quick read of that chapter and let me know what you think?”
If they love it, they might read more, including chapter 1. If they are bored or busy, you might nonetheless get useful insights from whatever they say.
