Fools Rush In is an inspiring book and a great example of being daft enough to dream stupidly big.
Set in the hell of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War, this is the tale of young Bill Carter who comes up with the madcap idea of asking U2 if they will play a song to raise the spirits of the besieged people of Sarajevo. You’ll have to read the book for the rest of the story…
I didn’t think the first half was particularly great; just another war memoir. But the second half is superb so it’s worth sticking with.
Yet another example of three things I really believe in:
- Think bigger than you have ever thought before
- Ignore the wimpish pessimists
- Don’t worry about failure. You probably will fail. But how wonderful it will be if you don’t fail! Worry instead about regretting not even trying.
Yep. No wimping allowed near here. Nope. (Just submitted my first play. I don’t care if it fails: to write 50 pages of dialogue over a weekend and reach a deadline is achievement enough!) Now, to get ready for another big goal out East somewhere….No regrets. :-)
As supporters of War Child, The Cycle Diaries will certainly be reading this book – the film version was the catalyist to setting up the charity.
Plus three glorious bits of advice!
Thanks Al!
Alastair – thanks for reading FOOLS RUSH IN. I actually help with publicity for Bill, and I was extraordinarily inspired by the book when I read it for the first time back in 2005. I am thrilled any time someone gives it a chance – so I appreciate your efforts to share the good word. Your review also introduced me to your work, and I enjoyed learning about your bicycle trip around the world and your photos from the Arctic. Pretty wild! Look me up next time you pedal through Portland, Oregon! Cheers, Mike P.
I had a great time in Portland. Epic burritos too…!