I'm Writing a Book To Help You Become a Street-Smart Coder
15 Jun 2026 #coding #booksWhen I started coding, I thought my only job was writing code. And I was wrong.
I went to the extreme, obsessing over syntax and lines of code. I didn’t want to attend meetings, answer my phone, or reply to emails. Those were the days I had a cubicle.
After trial and error, I realized code neither saved me nor made me stand out. It was always something beyond symbols on text files.
That’s why I’m writing this book: the prequel to Street-Smart Coding. It’s my case against obsessing over syntax to stand out. A manifesto for mastering the skills that create real impact.
I’m calling it: Street-Smart Coding Manifesto. This one is about the why, while Street-Smart Coding is about the how.
It’s for junior and intermediate coders—and my younger self—who want to create impact beyond code.
A writing and marketing experiment
Street-Smart Coding was a test on persistence. 10 Surprisingly Simple Ideas That Changed My Life taught me about promotion.
Here’s what I’m doing differently:
#1. Hands first, then computer. Following one lesson from Steal Like An Artist, this book started with pen and paper. I used my 10-idea lists to plan it and sticky notes to outline it.
#2. Marketing from day 1. “People will come” isn’t 100% true. Instead of waiting for a first draft, I’m announcing it early: like I did in past Friday Links and now in this post.
#3. The Mini Book W technique. Unlike Street-Smart Coding, this isn’t a “choose your own adventure” book, but a “start to finish” book.
To outline it, I’m using the W technique from Chris Stanley’s Mini Book Model. One chapter to answer what, why, and how to become a street-smart coder.
#4. Succinct writing. Stealing Derek Siver’s writing style, I’m planning chapters to be short and self-contained. Each chapter covers one core idea, not long textbook lessons.
This is a short and actionable you can finish over coffee.
Preorder Street-Smart Coding Manifesto starting at just $1 and start mastering the skills that will set you apart, giving you confidence and impact beyond code. If you’d like to support the work, contribute $5 or more and I’ll thank you in the Acknowledgments.