How do I make a decision to purchase a book?
1. If I know the keywords (Java, .Net, SQL), I search online, read the book description, 3-4 reviews and click that button.
2. I go to my local Barnes & Noble bookstore and pick up some books from the shelves. I pick the books either from a well known publisher/series, or the ones with intriguing title. I may not purchase them eventually, but at least they have a chance.
Yesterday I went to B&N and after my usual scan of the Java section, I noticed a small red book on the top shelf (not a prime location) that put a smile on my face and I picked it up. The title was just brilliant:
"My Job Went To India and All I got was this lousy book. 52 ways to save your job".
Our B&N has a large area where people just sit and read the books. If they like it, they buy it (sometimes from the Amazon), if not they put it back on the shelf.
I skimmed through this book and did not purchase it. The author was not able to sell me any of his ideas/advises. This book had some not too practical recommendations on managing your career and scattered bits and pieces on author's experience in establishing a software shop in India. The author spent there a year and a half, but unfortunately did not have much to share.
So even though B&N is more expensive than online stores, it gives you a chance to check out a book...and not purchase it.
But that title was just perfect , and I'm sure many copies of this book will be sold (mostly online though). I take my hat off to the publisher of this book.
links: digg this del.icio.us technorati
