Permanent Record: Book Report

The same way the Industrial Revolution is defined by manufacturing and the Prohibition is defined by a lack of booze, this era — whatever we’re in now — is defined by data.

Review

Permanent Record by Edward Snowden is a phenomenal book. When I picked it up, I joked that I was just trying to learn more about social isolation in a time that I’m stuck at home with nowhere to go. But I ultimately learned a lot more than I thought I would. I kept running to my notes to write down quotes I found eloquent and insightful. I was critically thinking and reflecting through every page.

There was a great balance of dramatic anecdotal sequences, background information so you can understand the technology, and insights into Snowden’s personal life, thoughts, and decisions. Edward Snowden really is just an ordinary smart guy who made a bizarre discovery.

I don’t know that I have any criticisms — I haven’t read enough books yet to know what to look for. But as far as I know, this is a 10/10.

This book pairs well with the documentary Citizenfour that follows Snowden and the journalists who released the documents exposing the US government’s mass surveillance efforts. I also recommend checking out this interview with Trevor Noah where Snowden explains his motivations for writing the book.