How to Use Twitter to Lower Your Phone Bill, the Novel That Explained the Internet and More #Mustreads

Good morning!

Here are some of the reads we’re catching up on at Re/code:

1. In a case of #brand engagement gone wrong, the Washington Post says Sprint customers are trying to reduce their phone bills by adding random people from Twitter to their “framily.”
2. William Gibson wrote “Neuromancer” 30 years ago. His seminal science fiction novel, particularly his description of “cyberspace,” helped us think about, and create, the future. As the Guardian points out, Gibson’s current work is still excellent, and talks more about the present.
3. A riveting real-life murder mystery from the New Yorker — the story of Tyrone Hood, who may have been framed for murder by the Chicago police 20 years ago.
4. If you’ve ever considered tweeting about your unfinished novel, you may want to revisit that. Multimedia artist Cory Arcangel’s new book is a collection of tweets from folks who are dying to let you know about their unfinished masterpieces. The A.V. Club has more.
5. Twitter isn’t “real” conversation. TV is rotting our brains. Facebook is turning you into a bore. And, as the New York Times said in the 1850s, the telegraph can’t possibly “add to the happiness of mankind.” The Atlantic points out that reflexive dismissal of new media has a storied role in American history.

If you see any stories you’d like to send our way (or have any questions/comments about stories we’ve recommended), feel free to shoot an email to noah.kulwin@recode.net.

This article originally appeared on Recode.net.

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