Academic writing for the ill enthused

So, in much my readings reinterpretations and ramblings, I have noticed a thing or two about academia. So much of the time spent is not necessarily done so in furthering the field, but rather, by being seen and noticed in the field. Written books are no longer the highlight of the academic's career, but rather a necessary key component in their continued hire. Without a published book under your belt, you will not get tenured. However, this trend is changing. With the onslaught of publications in journals and the ever increasing web presence of instructors, books have taken the back burner. A certain past time if you will. In addition, conferences are the new breeding ground for professors. It can still be about who you know, but so much more is where have you been scene. Attend the right conference and you are welcomed to the red carpeted grammy awards ceremony of academia. The world is ever globalized with minimizing travel times and communication efficiency rising, the book is bound for failure.