**One of the best-researched and well-written business books I have read, *Character Limit: How Elon Musk Destroyed Twitter* by Kate Conger and Ryan Mac is a compelling exploration of Elon Musk’s controversial purchase of Twitter. The book offers a rich narrative populated by a cast of hundreds of Twitter employees and executives, each bringing a unique perspective. Readers may find heroes and villains among them, all presented in vivid, humanizing detail. With a length far exceeding a tweet at 436 pages, it still keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

At the heart of the book is Elon Musk, whose reputation as a visionary, eccentric, and often self-centered figure is fully displayed here. Musk is depicted as the center of Twitter’s universe, around which all other stories orbit. His personality and decisions drive the narrative, illustrating his complex and, at times, erratic leadership style.

As a reader, I found myself feeling sympathetic for the executives and employees who had to work with Musk. Many were caught in a difficult position, needing their jobs to support themselves and their families. Musk, however, was a challenging boss, setting impossible deadlines, frequently changing his mind, and often requiring flattery before he would listen to advice. This environment, as described in the book, made for a grueling workplace experience.

The book also draws comparisons between Musk and Donald Trump, noting both men’s tendencies to act impulsively, seeking adulation and approval without considering the full consequences of their decisions. This parallel underscores the irony that Musk, who initially sought to reduce misinformation on Twitter, ended up frequently sharing and amplifying misinformation himself.

After reading this book, I would not want to work with Elon Musk. The book notes that there has been speculation Musk could take on efficiency reforms in the federal government by cutting expenses and staff. However, his approach at Twitter—firing over half the staff without a clear strategy—highlights the dangers of indiscriminately cutting headcount without considering the broader ramifications.