Sam Altman: Optimist

The first biography of the mysterious mastermind behind the AI revolution charts his rise and ambitions. When Sam Altman, CEO and co-founder of OpenAI, was fired during a video call in November 2023, it caused a global sensation. Within a week, however, he returned to lead the company, and most of those who voted for his dismissal had to leave the board themselves. The entire event showed Altman's immense power to influence events around him, as well as the ruthless and personal race to build technology that will change the world. Wall Street Journal reporter Keach Hagey tells Altman's story from his childhood in St. Louis to his early startup days, his time at Y Combinator, and building the top-tier team at OpenAI, through to the intrigue that led to his temporary dismissal and his fierce battle with competitors. Based on more than 200 interviews, the biography offers a unique look at the man whose vision of the future is shaping our lives today.