I’ll start with my criticisms:
While most of the 18 principles outlined in his book are indeed sound and have proven the test of time (as most have already been taught by numerous 20th century authors, many of whom are referenced in the book), I have an issue with the integrity of the title. Let’s start with his claim of being “homeless”. This is a strategic and creative usage of the term. He was on a tropical beach in Thailand, not living under a freeway in Detroit! While he may have been technically homeless, the author takes much license with the term. Mr. Pira’s company is worth about $60MM USD. Still an impressive valuation, but I find it difficult to take advice from someone who would knowingly deceive his readers, knowing full well, many, if not most, of his sales will be in the US or GB. Yes, he is a billionaire in Thailand, where a Baht is worth three cents US.
Second, the narration is not fitting of an author who claims to have been a gang member and frequently refers to being “from the streets”. This guy sounds like he just had a pedicure/manicure and is sipping a drink with an umbrella in it whilst narrating. Not convincing.
In terms of the writing, most importantly, the message was received and I did find value in it. I have even written down many of them as daily reminders and affirmations to myself. However (and it’s a BIG however), too many authors skip right to the butterflies and rainbows while casually referencing when they made “their first million”. No mention whatsoever in this book of how he got from “homeless” to his “first million”! This is what people want to know! This is why people buy these books! We all know it’s easy to make money, build businesses and live dreams when you’re already a millionaire!!! It’s frustrating to read these books when they skip over the single most important and powerful thing that separates them from the other 99%. Without that 1st million, you can’t even anti-up in the business world. Readers want to know how to get in the game! THEN we can talk about philanthropy and warm fuzzy stuff.
Lastly, we ALL must find another word for the “Universe”, as it is used in this context. Uuugghhhh… I get the intent, but it just makes me cringe when people use it this way. How about we redefine our concept of God to fit less with this “angry, judgmental, gray-haired old white-man” imagery, and align it with what everyone has come to refer to as the Universe? It’s the same thing! Instead of rebranding the idea of God, let’s evolve our perception of God. In other words, take religion out of spirituality, and see how that works out. Just a thought…
Overall, I would recommend this book. In many ways, I am not unlike the author, except that he is a “billionaire” (in a 3rd world country) and I am not. Still, I find value in pondering that.