Copies of the book and a reader’s guide will be available to check out ahead of time at the Reference Desk. Past participation is not required for this once-a-month book club. Everyone is welcome to join the low-key, no long-term commitment, friendly group. Registration is requested.
Acclaimed by The New York Times, The Economist, and NPR as one of the best books of 2025, ‘Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism’ by Sarah Wynn-Williams offers a darkly humorous and shocking journey through the corridors of power at one of the world’s most influential companies. This #1 New York Times Bestseller and explosive memoir provides a raw, insider’s view of Facebook, diving deep into the crucial decisions that have shaped global events and exposing the unsettling mix of misogyny and double standards that plague corporate culture. Wynn-Williams shares bewildering experiences—from lavish trips and meetings with world leaders to the inner workings of a toxic workplace driven by unbridled power. ‘Careless People’ not only illuminates the personal struggles of Wynn-Williams as a working mother advised to ‘lean in’ by Sheryl Sandberg but also critiques the broader implications of unchecked authority within the tech giant. As the narrative unfolds, it lays bare the chaotic and sometimes absurd reality of a few individuals shaping the future carelessly, revealing the profound impact this has on both the company and the world at large. The memoir is a compelling account of the rise and tumultuous times at Facebook, encapsulating everything from its influence on presidential elections to the personal toll on its employees. Through this candid and disarming exploration, Wynn-Williams critically examines how the combination of immense power and irresponsible leadership at Facebook has unfolded catastrophic consequences for society.