Kyle MacDonald

Written in an easy, whimsical, conversational style, Kyle MacDonald tells how he traded a red paperclip for a house in Kipling, Saskatchewan, in 14 trades. It is an interesting read as an examination of modern internet culture.

Along the way, Mr. MacDonald realizes that the process is as important, perhaps more important, than the outcome of his attempt to secure a house. I, too, was interested in this aspect of the story. However, his attempts to make inspirational or motivational comments show more between chapters often didn't work -- he'd have done better to let readers draw their own inspiration.

I hope he's enjoying Saskatchewan! show less

what a great book!! It was such fun, and revived my sense of wonder and amazement. Anything is possible when you go for your dream with the best of intentions and stay true to your deepest values. That sounds highbrow and intense--this book is anything but. It's a joyride! Not particularly well-written, but you won't care. Definitely read this book!

I am not sure if trading a paperclip on the internet really makes you a great role model to give life advice. It was interesting to read, and he tells a good tale about the people he met along the way, but the sanctimonious harping on following ones dreams really sound a little odd from a guy who traded away a paperclip on a whim.

This book is mildly amusing. If you want to learn about resourcefulness, hustling or going on an adventure by conducting a social experiment and meeting all kinds of strangers, read this book. One Red Paperclip would have been a good book, were it half as long and the writing style more to-the-point.