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 brilliant idea! If only I'd thought of it first...

If you have ever found yourself thinking these words, then you'll love this book! This is the story of an ordinary guy who managed to trade up from one red paperclip to a house (yes, a house!) in just fourteen trades. Written with style and not a little humour, One Red Paperclip details the incredible journey Kyle travelled in order to fulfil his dream of owning a home.

Where most of us would have thought it couldn't be done, Kyle took show more the plunge, making some incredible trades and having a lot of fun along the way. This is a highly amusing and inspiring book and I encourage everyone to read it. show less

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.

Inspirational. This is a book about dreaming big, acting on dreams, connecting with people and having fun. It's written in an amusing style and tells the author's story of how he started a game of "bigger and better," wanting to trade up from something simple (one red paperclip) and where it got him in the span of a year (as a happy home owner in Kipling, Saskatchewan). Kyle should be especially inspirational for young men who know they have potential but who have little to show for it and show more are reluctant to join the throng of the traditional job holders.
In the spirit of Kyle, I'd like to look for someone who'd like to have this book, rather than letting it rest on my shelves, collecting dust. Unlike Kyle, though, I'm not looking to barter...if you'd like to own this book, let me know. Whoever makes the most compelling case for receiving my copy of One Red Paperclip can become the next proud owner of the book. Who knows how far it might lead you to go? show less