Review: An Insider's View of Amazon
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 02 13, 2013
"Inside the Giant Machine" is somewhat depressing yet entertaining. Yes you do get an insider's view of what it is like to work for amazon but the story is devoid of the excitement the amazon experience produces. You are left feeling that this author had a bad experience and wanted to unburden himself by telling his story.There are some interesting tidbits like how Jeff Bezos thought up the name for amazon. I found the information on the interview process to be consistent with other reports I've read. Amazon really does only hire the best and smartest minds around. Before reading this book I did not however realize how competitive the workplace at amazon was but reviewing also seems to be a fairly competitive sport so maybe I should not be so surprised.I liked reading the information about the fulfilllment centers. Who knew they were as large as 13 football fields? This is amazing. Now as far as the writing goes you won't be able to tell this is written by a non-native speaker.It is also funny in places and the author has a certain Indian charm. He however is not shy about describing Jeff Bezos as a perfectionist. But would we expect less from the leader of the greatest company on earth? I suppose this book is not a totally happy story but it does have nice descriptions of Seattle.In the end I'm glad the author moved on to a new job. To work at amazon requires a dedication that only those who want to change the world can muster. But I'm glad the author is now happy at a new job wherever he is.~The Rebecca Review