Finance

I read it cover to cover in two sittings . . . O.K., I'll concede, I scanned a few sections but was truly engrossed by most. This book offers an excellent balance of specifics, statistics and "for more info" references. It unequivocally belongs in the library of any savvy business owner, manager, hopeful entrepreneur or corporate mogul. The layout will enable the reader to find information of concern quickly and easily. In particular, the chapters devoted to business law, human resources and finance were extremely helpful to me. Well worth the price. I'm looking forward to adding the 1998 edition to my shelves. Now (wringing hands together), back to that business plan outline on page 168 . . .

I know... it's weird to get excited about a reference book, but this is a very good survey of resources and tidbits of information useful in running a business, whether you're an office manager or trying to foray on your own. As might be expected in a broad-based book, there is coverage of topics you might not have thought about asking, for example, how to prepare your art work for billboard advertising. However, there is some weakness in high-tech areas, e.g., Web Site marketing, where only a small handful of companies are listed. Augmenting the book are numerous email addresses which you can request lists of information on specific topics.