The Pandemic’s Impact on Elon Musk’s Politics and Perceptions of L.A.

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Introducing Walter Isaacson’s Latest Investigation: “Elon Musk”

Former Time magazine editor Walter Isaacson is renowned for his deeply researched biographies of history’s game changers, including Steve Jobs, Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, Jennifer Doudna, and Benjamin Franklin. Now, Isaacson delves into the world of one of today’s most influential figures with his latest investigation, “Elon Musk.”

In an exclusive excerpt published by the L.A. Times, Isaacson offers readers a glimpse into the upcoming book and the life of Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, Tesla, and the social platform X (previously known as Twitter). The excerpt reveals three interesting things about Musk and his journey.

Firstly, Isaacson explores Musk’s dramatic political evolution, which he attributes to government-imposed mandates during the pandemic that fueled Musk’s anti-authority streak. From being a supporter and fundraiser for Barack Obama, Musk now rails against progressive Democrats.

Secondly, Isaacson delves into Musk’s thoughts on family. Musk expresses regret over sending his daughter to Crossroads, a private school in Los Angeles, due to what he calls “woke indoctrination.” This revelation offers insight into Musk’s personal life and values.

Lastly, Isaacson explores Musk’s frustration with California, which led to him selling his properties in Bel-Air and Silicon Valley and relocating. Musk describes California as a place that has transformed from the land of opportunity to the land of litigation, regulation, and taxation.

To research the book, Isaacson spent two years shadowing Musk, gaining access to corporate meetings, private emails and texts, and interviews with colleagues, family members, and adversaries. This comprehensive approach aims to provide readers with a nuanced understanding of Musk’s life and career.

Isaacson will be joining the L.A. Times Book Club on October 1st for a conversation with Times columnist Anita Chabria, marking his only Los Angeles appearance. Readers are encouraged to send their questions for Isaacson and share their thoughts as they read along with the book during September.

Other Book Club Updates

In a follow-up to the August newsletter, Susan Orlean, bestselling author of “The Library Book,” shares her favorite summer reads. She highlights “Trust” by Hernan Diaz as a captivating and brilliantly written book that keeps readers engaged with its twists and turns. Orlean also mentions listening to Tess Gunty’s “The Rabbit Hutch” as her latest audiobook and expresses excitement for Jesmyn Ward’s upcoming book, “Let Us Descend.” Orlean herself is working on a memoir that chronicles her writing life.

Additionally, the newsletter features Paul Yamazaki, a bookseller at San Francisco’s City Lights bookstore for over five decades. Yamazaki will receive the Literarian Award for Outstanding Service to the American Literary Community, presented by the National Book Foundation. The newsletter also highlights new releases from authors James Ellroy, Lee Goldberg, Tod Goldberg, and Lauren Groff.

In the realm of poetry, U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón is collaborating with the National Park Service and the Poetry Society of America to create poetry installations in California’s Redwood National and State Parks and other wild spaces. Limón is passionate about using poetry to connect readers with the natural world.

Looking ahead, The New York Times suggests 33 nonfiction books to read this fall, including Walter Isaacson’s “Elon Musk” and Martin Baron’s “Collision of Power,” the October book club read. The list also features titles by Barbra Streisand, Patrick Stewart, Jada Pinkett Smith, Kerry Washington, Viet Thanh Nguyen, and Taylor Lorenz.

Supporting the L.A. Times Book Club

Readers are encouraged to support the L.A. Times Book Club by making tax-deductible contributions to the Los Angeles Times Community Fund. These contributions help ensure the production of in-person and virtual book club events throughout the year and allow the book club to continue thriving.

In conclusion, Walter Isaacson’s latest investigation into Elon Musk promises to provide readers with an in-depth exploration of one of today’s most influential figures. Isaacson’s extensive research and access to Musk’s inner circle provide a rare glimpse into his life, beliefs, and evolution. With the upcoming L.A. Times Book Club event featuring Isaacson, readers have the opportunity to engage with the author and delve deeper into the fascinating world of Elon Musk.

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