The World is Flat
By Thomas L. Friedman

If you have ever wanted to understand globalization and what it means for you and your children, then this book is for you. At 488 pages, The World is Flat is a book that requires commitment and is a bit daunting. However Friedman does a good job of making the technology related information understandable for the average reader, using layman’s terms and examples. The rise of the Internet is credited with much of the flattening of the world but Friedman also explains how several key world political events also influenced our current situation. The author also makes clear without taking a partisan stance why the US has seemingly missed its wake up call about globalization.

Unlike other recent publications which attempt to take on issues such as outsourcing, open source software and free trade policies, Friedman’s tome does not give simplistic answers. In fact readers will find themselves with some serious thinking to do about our national values as capitalists, consumers and citizens when they read the chapter titled “The Great Sorting Out.” This is a book that leads to a shift in how the business world is viewed. It will also make one look at their individual work habits differently. I highly recommend it to anyone willing to take the time to read it.

One copy available in Adult Nonfiction (303.48 FRI)

Jill Gray, Information Services, Kewanee Public Library.