This week’s book review features Adland by James Othmer. It’s a memoir of the life of an advertising executive who started out working for a small ad agency and made his way to the top only to find this traditional agency was failing in the face of new age of digital and social marketing. By watching groundbreaking viral marketing campaigns (like the Nine Inch Nails Internet Easter Egg hunt) he gains a new found love for his craft, ending up writing this book on the new age of the industry and the influence it has on culture.

It’s a funny and engaging read and gives a first hand account of the changes currently underway. He offers insight into how consumers are manipulated by messaging while at the same time being self-deprecating about his own failings. It’s a great read for anyone involved in the industry or simply curious about how and why it works, and, most importantly, how its changing.

As always, I’ll be giving away a free copy of the book to someone who comments on a blog post this week. Hope this was helpful and thanks for your support.