Lions and Tigers and Bears: The Internet Strikes Back

Oh Myyy! #2

by George Takei

George Takei is the undisputed King of Facebook, with millions of fans liking, commenting and sharing his posts each week. Following on his best-selling Oh Myyy (There Goes the Internet), in this second book Takei caps another year at the top of the Internet, with more hilarious compilations and commentary on the best memes in the galaxy, covering everything from Admiral Ackbar to Siri to Grumpy Cat. But his reign isn't all fun and LOLs. In this groundbreaking book, Takei also chronicles the "dark side" of the Net - how he has battled the haters, spammers and trolls, and even how some of his once-loyal fans were quick to turn on him. Takei's musings on the nature of our increasingly connected world - why people share, what it really means, and how the developing world actually gets how to use social media - is required reading for anyone trying to understand and leverage its power. Takei has used his own vast powers as a social medialite for the good of humanity, taking on the forces of inequality and oppression both at home and in far flung lands like Putin's Russia, proving that "Uncle George" is not just fabulously funny, but fantastically fierce. Oh Myyy. Indeed.

Genres: Humor, Nonfiction, Memoir, Biography, Ebooks, LGBT, Comedy

272 pages, Paperback

First published December 13, 2013

About the author

George Hosato Takei is an American actor best known for his role in the TV series Star Trek, in which he played the helmsman Hikaru Sulu on the USS Enterprise. His baritone earned Takei recurring appearances as the announcer for The Howard Stern Show starting on January 9, 2006, after that show's move to satellite radio.

Reviews

[Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book by George Takei that I have read about his experiences with the Internet. I enjoy reading him because he is so benign a public figure that he approaches Mother Theresa in this regard. There does not appear to be a mean bone in his body -- which is all the more impressive because of all the trolls and bullies and haters that stalk the Internet.

In fact, Lions and Tigers and Bears: The Internet Strikes Back leads me to hope that the Internet can evolve to a higher plane. I now follow Saint George's Facebook website, which acts as a conduit for humor and occasionally social progress (gays, imprisonment of Japanese during World War Two).

I recommend you read this book primarily because it will make you feel good and even, perhaps, hopeful in between mass shootings, acts of terrorism, horrendous disasters, and racial bigotry.

[Alissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

It could be called: A lot of people don't like what I post on my FB page and here's what I think they're wrong.

While I really enjoy following his page - both for the humorous stuff and for the more serious stuff - and while I agree with Takei that (a) he is allowed to post whatever he wants on his own page and (b) it is actually really smart of him to post a lot of humor to get a lot of followers so that he can then use this platform for messages about issues important to him, I don't think I needed to read a whole book about it.

Got this when he was running a deal to buy it for $2. Not sure it is worth more than that.

[Kieran McAndrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

More observations of life, the internet and everything from the inestimable George Takei, whose easy writing style and gentle sense of humour hides the passion of the ideals of equality he holds so dear.

[Jim Dooley · Rating 3 out of 5]

After absolutely loving the insights about social media shared in the writer's first book, OH, MYYY, I was really looking forward to his second one. However, the perspective is very different. Oh, it is still fun to read. I had hoped that I would find more useful information for navigating the social media offerings as I had done in the first one.

For his second book, George Takei lets you see what social media life is from his side of the computer screen. Since most of us do not have over 6-million followers, the challenges that he encounters are remote from what we would experience. For instance, shortening a cat's name to "Tard" in a post unintentionally struck a nerve from people facing some strong life challenges. If many of us many of us did the same thing, it is likely that our post would go entirely unnoticed.

Yes, there are definite insights. The writer uses part of his book to promote his position on issues that are important to him, providing worthwhile perspectives to ponder. I also learned about a trend called "First World Problems" that will have me reconsidering issues that I find to be personally annoying.

Liberally sprinkled throughout are humorous excerpts for which the writer's online presence is justifiably famous. These are very entertaining, but they won't stick with me. (Okay, the Dorothy and Toto meme will stick with me!)

In the final analysis, this is an enjoyable quick read for a Sunday afternoon with a cup of hot chocolate nearby while the snowflakes fall outside. There's nothing wrong with that.

[Armando Espinoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

George Takei really knows his stuff about the Internet and how to basically become a public Internet figure or even a meme. This book actually details his ascent to the "top" with stories of how he dealt with adversity (ex. trying to regain an audience's fading interest, Facebook news feed page changes that everyone hates), how he started his whole living on the Internet, and issues and stories that matter to him to which he uses his undeniable, influential voice in order to increase their exposure. He does a very good job chronicling many problems, sticking points, and elements he's been through during the building of his brand.

A big reason why I like this book is that he details basically his whole methods of running his Internet presence and branding, from idea inception to handling the haters, flamers and dissenters. He shows he has the same expertise as a Seth Godin, Tim Ferriss or Gary Vaynerchuk, which are highly respected minds about online personal branding and literally make millions from it. You can learn from this book the same way you can learn from the aforementioned authors. In an Internet full of trolls, knowing how to handle your critics are key to keeping a good image in the eye of the Internet. Of course, his writings provide a good laugh and entertainment factor. It's very refreshing how he can educate an audience without making it seem like a lecture.

[Trish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just completed George Takei's second book and am liking it even more than the first which I read only yesterday.

I really like Uncle George's way of allowing us a glimpse onto his side of the computer screen and I, personally, can't wait to see more of his "3H" mission (humor, humanism and humanitarianism)! It's been fun, educating and simply a blast to read about the Asian American internment camps (of which I knew almost nothing before) as well as his experience of the marriage equality movement and the significance of the internet - and, yes, I vastly also enjoyed the grumpy cat and nerdy Star Trek memes. ;-)

As a side note: I learned in this book that sometimes you can click on the images in order to zoom in. Now, admittedly this didn't work with all images and with those it did, it didn't always help since the zoom sometimes caused the text to be too blurry to read but it was definitely helpful (as opposed to my experience in the first book).

To ∞ & ->

[Bunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Much more enjoyable than his first book. While I liked the first one well enough, it felt more like a Social Media How-To. This felt more personal to George himself.

What I also like about it is, if he were to continue on with these books, he could easily mark out what memes were popular on the internet at certain time periods. He also touches on hot spot issues, such as the battle with Russia and the Olympics. That chapter was particularly touching and well written.

I've said it before, I'll say it again. George Takei is a treasure. Adore him.

[Rich Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good read from Uncle George. Don't expect any revelations or really new stuff though; this is just another fun look at Takei's life as a gay man and an Internet celebrity. He is one of the few that can properly balance the line between goofy and serious and not look the fool or asshat. It definitely IS okay to be Takei.

[Bekka Lindor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lol'ing from the moment I picked up my kindle 'til I finished the book.... I think the other patrons in the restaurant are jealous.

I was lol'ing from the moment I picked up this book until I put it down....I do believe the other patrons in the restaurant are jealous....or think I'm crazy....either way it was a delightful read. heartwarming, funny and thought-provoking.

[m. · Rating 3 out of 5]

The fairly similar follow-up to Oh Myyy takes us along a well-trodden path of meme culture with more serious social issues thrown in - the irony is that the more serious issues are the more interesting here and it would be nice to see a book devoted wholly to such things rather than a rehash of memes.

[Elyse · Rating 3 out of 5]

Still funny but George, you're repeating yourself. He tells the some of the same anecdotes in both books. Also, it feels like he's super on the offensive with this book. He has an explanation for EVERYTHING whereas in Oh Myyy! it was more just straight funny stuff. This book wasn't as funny and innocent as the first book. A little disappointed. Though the Facebook algorithm was interesting.

[Justin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Funny and interesting insight into social media (mainly Facebook). George Takei conveys his usual warmth and humanity while giving his view on certain Internet phenomena. Very much a continuation of his last book.

[Martha Stout]

Loved this book

I am addicted to the Internet, much like many people out there. George Takei's observations of the Internet, both in this book, and in Oh Myyy, are insightful and humorous. Somehow, he has simplified a very complicated place. A great read!

[Gillian Paulus · Rating 4 out of 5]

I already enjoy reading "Uncle George." As with his first book, there were parts of it that were serious and parts that were hilarious. It's nice getting insights and background into his social media dealings.

[Deborah Lynch · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this after it was put on a Kindle offer at $1.99 and it was a funny, gentle read. Not too many laugh out loud moments but it was interesting to read some of the background to the Takei Facebook phenomenon.

[Trish · Rating 3 out of 5]

Continuing where Oh Myyyy left off, George Takei reviews year two as an internet sensation. That said, this one covers a lot more issues than the first, which was more about pop culture, giving it a slightly different feel. However, its still very much his own inimitable style.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing, bravo to George Takei for keeping his beliefs and sense of humor in the face of internet trolls.

[Bobby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book by George Takei, He talks about his struggles with being gay and why he uses Social Media. Even tells a secret or two on how to become successful on Social Media.

[Felix · Rating 5 out of 5]

George Takei makes me happy. reading this, I could hear him typing in his voice. very nice book. A must read!

[Suzanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

A charming read from George Takei, but could have used some proof reading.

[Ripley Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks George

All in all another satisfying read from Uncle George.
It's not profound, but it is fun.
I'm ready for the next one.

[Sharon Darrow · Rating 3 out of 5]

Learning about the intricacies of Facebook is lots more fun with George Takei! I love his dry sense of humor and insight into society.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a must ready for any George Takei fan. Actually this book is a must read for anyone.

[Adrienne · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Entertaining though brief. I enjoyed peeking behind the scenes of a social mediate! Look forward to his book about his movie!

[Kirsten Higashikawa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Mike gave it to me for my birthday because I love Takei's Facebook posts. Interesting to read about the behind the scenes.

[Tony Fecteau · Rating 4 out of 5]

George us an amazing individual... I love to read his thought processes on current events. Keep these books coming. :)

[Amarand Agasi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hope George continues to write books! Not just about Star Trek, but about all the cool stuff he's done, his unique life experiences and dealing with the Internet. Fantastic book!

[Andrew Berman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great fun (with a touch social conscience)

George Takei's take on the best and worst of life online. Lots of humor and a modicum of advocacy for social justice for all genders.

One recommendation. Read on a Tablet rather than an e-reader. The little meme pictures are nearly unrecognizable on my kindle paperwhite but are perfectly clear on my fir tablet.

[Gina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Really very similar to Oh Myyy, the first book, with several memes and the reasoning behind using the various memes. There is a hint of defensiveness that can kind of grate, but I do not doubt his sincerity and desire to do good.

A big chapter is the release of Siri, to give an idea of timeliness.

[Jessica Bass · Rating 5 out of 5]

AWESOME sequel to Oh Myyy!. Once again Takei's insight into the culture of the online world is hilarious.