The first section of the book is an autobiography. As a child, Bob liked to build things from cardboard boxes. He also used his construction toys to enhance other toys, such as making spaceships and forts. His grandfather was an inspiration, and Bob used to watch and help him in the workshop. Bob’s high school and college life was also influential and, as well as helping him achieve a software career, it also provided some of the skills he’d need to be a professional maker.
One of the things we enjoyed about Bob’s story is that you can see how he’s picking up skills along the way. Each of these small pieces fits together to provide him with a complete toolkit to achieve his end-result.
The second part of the book covers Bob’s thoughts on his current maker business. He looks at how he deals with feedback and interacting with the community, and how he stays productive and produces quality content. Sometimes he needed to stick with an idea and some he changed if they were not working. Bob shares his purpose and the impact he has had on others. The process of making good videos every week requires planning, so Bob takes us through his process and what tools he uses.
There are useful thoughts on how to make money from being a maker, and when to say no.
Like many makers, Bob is continuously learning as he goes. But he’s also getting in help where it makes sense. Bob sees this journey as the first step for his new business, and finishes the book with a few inspirational thoughts on what you, the reader, might do.
Verdict: An inspirational book for anyone looking to take their hobby to the next level. 9/10
