Character Limit explores the turbulent journey of Twitter under Elon Musk’s ownership, documenting his controversial $44 billion acquisition and the profound changes it brought to the platform. Kate Conger and Ryan Mac offer a detailed account of how Musk’s ideological views clashed with the platform’s foundational principles, often centering around his vision for free speech. The book chronicles pivotal moments, such as Musk’s legal battles, radical operational changes, and efforts to reshape Twitter into a tool aligned with his personal beliefs. The authors unravel the complexities of Musk’s leadership style, characterized by rapid, often chaotic decision-making and disregard for established norms.

Delving deeper, the authors highlight the broader societal implications of Musk’s Twitter takeover. The book sheds light on the delicate balance between free expression and content moderation in the digital age, especially as the platform became a battleground for misinformation and harassment. Through vivid accounts of critical events, such as Musk’s restructuring efforts and public controversies, Character Limit examines the ripple effects on the tech industry, social media governance, and global discourse.

With exclusive interviews, internal documents, and meticulous reporting, Conger and Mac present a nuanced portrayal of Musk’s disruptive impact on one of the most influential social media platforms. The narrative extends beyond Twitter, offering insight into how unchecked ambition and immense power can reshape institutions and public narratives. This gripping exposé raises questions about accountability, leadership, and the cost of shaping digital public spaces in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.