Subjects:  1. 20th Century Art   2. Art   3. Art & Art Instruction   4. Individual Artist   5. Sculpture   6. Art / Individual Artist   

Subjects:  1. Business & Economics   2. Business / Economics / Finance   3. Business/Economics   4. Real Estate - General   5. Real Estate - Investments   6. Real Estate Investment   7. Business & Economics / Real Estate   

Customer Reviews (21)

Fit to be Tied
Jay Wiseman's "SM-101" has earned a well-deserved place on most BDSM reading lists. So I have *really* been looking forward to reading his new book dedicated to erotic bondage. I was not disappointed.

Jay starts off by setting the scope of the book. His goal is to provide basic-to-intermediate level ties in terms of both risk and difficulty. He does not cover self-bondage, suspension, complex Japanese "hojo-jitsu" ties, long-term ties, or tying against resistance. This still leaves a pretty wide range of techniques for tying single limbs, "I bet you can't get loose" games, double wrist and ankle, spread-eagle, hogtie, gags and ear muffs, male and female genital bondage, breast bondage, handcuffs, tape, safety issues, and lots of other fun stuff.

Perhaps most surprisingly considering Jay's reputation as a BDSM safety promoter, he evaluates the military-style hogtie using a rope that crosses the front of the throat as only medium risk. I have long advocated modifying the classic hojo-jitsu ties to avoid this, so Jay and I find ourselves on opposite chairs of this particular safety issue. As long as the bottom is closely monitored and not left alone, I agree that the risk from this technique is not too extreme, but it is still something I personally prefer to avoid. Jay includes a "politically correct" version (what I have in the past called the "backpack tie") for we fuddy-duddies.

This is a very handsome and substantial book, at 323 pages, with a *very* sexy cover photo and lots of excellent drawings of knots and prisoners, including gay, lesbian, and het couples. Folks who hang out on soc.subculture.bondage-bdsm and wonder what Jay, Janet, and Sockermom look like will finally have their curiosity satisfied. This is definitely must reading for anyone interested in learning how to tie up their partner(s.)

Highly trained professional stunt perverts may find that they are already familiar with some of the basic techniques. Still, I recommend this for every bondage enthusiast's library.

If nothing else, it is handy to have on the bookshelf to "try out some of these ties" with your partner.

Your Humble Jester,

Philip the Foole

Tap for release? Hmmm, I've never tried that. - Ancient Kung Foole Proverb by Jay Wiseman

Good basic introduction, but a bit tricky if ...
you don't know much about knots. A well written book that may over-do the safety cautions, but then it is better to be over-safe than injured anytime. A good deal of the book tells us who Jay Wiseman is, why he is qualified to write this book, and how he went about researching, experimenting, and writing it. A bit long for those who know about him but shoudl reassure those who are exploring this for the first time. Let me begin by saying that I am "lazy" and easily bored. I've never been a fan of bondage either, as those who read my erotica can attest to. So, I would have prefered the knots section to be more interwoven in the positions section, I had to flip back and forth, but I have enough experience that primarily the book is inspiration. Bottoms who like to wiggling and get out of bondage may be angered a bit at the section about their "tricks" but tops will pleased to learn how to counter some of these. Likewise the description of rope helped me understand those "safety cautions" you always here but which are not explained. Good for the beginner, those apprenticing to learn knots or being a good boyscout might be a good idea first.

Simply the best bondage book out there.....
Jay Wiseman is an extremely intelligent person when it comes to the artful, fantastic, and fun world of s&m. He has been in the scene for many years, and has experienced just about everything one can in the s&m world. I highly suggest reading his books if you are a first timer, somewhat new to the scene, or a seasoned veteran. If you ever have a chance to see his seminar in a town near to you, then you should feel priveleged to experience his wisdom in person and purchase more of his books. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. General   2. Love / Sex / Marriage   3. Self-Help   4. Sexual Instruction   

Customer Reviews (109)

If You Are in Business, You Could Use This Book
Jay Abraham has had a 25 year career in marketing. You can't be in a field that long and not know what is going on and how to be successful. In this book, Abraham shares all of what he has learned. Reading this book offers a golden opportunity to take advantage of an expert's advice.

His book is full of ideas and information about how you can be more successful in your business. He gives examples of big businesses that increased their profit margins and how they did it, and how you can do the same thing and get the same results as the big boys.

If you have a small business, however, or are just building your business, you can put Abraham's ideas and methods to work starting today. None of the advice is "Pie-in-the-sky" or difficult. The ideas are proven winners.

Abraham's approach is consumer oriented--his theory is if you have happy customers, you will have more business. This shouldn't be anything new or suprising, but in today's rough and tumble busines world, it seems the customer is the last person many businesses think of, yet there is where your profits are.

Each chapter ends with an "Action Steps" segment. These are assignments for you to do, and taking the time to do them will be worthwhile. The book is easy to understand; it comes through with what it promises and suggests ways you can go over what ou already have in assests and opportunities and make more of what you've got.

You'll take the cash away in buckets after reading this one.
This has got to be one of the best books on marketing that I've read in a long while. You find yourself sitting back and re-examining your entire business process and easily coming up with ways to attract NEW business from your existing customer or client base.

I easily came up with three full pages of new services to offer my existing clients. Jay is big on creating a Unique Selling Point. The lightbulb went off in my head as soon as I read about his. Putting these ideas into action can be done by anyone.

These services were just sitting here waiting to be discovered -- and I never would have found them without Jay's book. No matter what your business, you will be able to use the ideas in Jay's book. They are broad enough that you can capture the concept and mold it to the way that you do business.

Jay also has a set of tapes on this concept which I strongly recommend. His web site (abraham) has a good preview of his methodology and concepts as well.

If I could give one book to anyone....
This guy is truly a master. Hands down... you can't walk away from anything by Jay the same. I can't believe anyone would through criticism at him. There's one guy on here who says a couple things are unrealistic. Man if you don't learn here... you won't learn anywhere. Just check out his site and all the testimonials...unrealistic? Maybe you just don't want to get off your (....) to do anything. Jay can change the way you look at life and business. This book should be sold for $100 at least. The one thing I can say about his work is he can communicate marketing like no one you've ever heard. With his mindset... money does grow on trees. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Business & Economics   2. Business / Economics / Finance   3. Business/Economics   4. Entrepreneurship   5. Leadership   6. Management - General   

Customer Reviews (46)

A user-friendly introduction
SM 101 was one of the very first books on the subject I read, and the humor, personal tone, and emphasis on safety and consensuality were instrumental in helping me to feel safe in exploring the topic more. Yes, this is a book written by an individual with his occasional quirks and biases, but it's full of great information and resources. It should be on the reading list for every BDSM beginner.

A Good Starter Book
I, a new player, without any other resource other than videos, found that this book is exactly what it is named.. SM 101... Anyone who is starting or just curious about BDSM **MUST** buy this book. It will give you a general overall about most things involed in BDSM. Whether physical, mental or social, it covers it all.
However, don't expect to find a step by step 'manual' on BDSM. This is not a book that tells you how to do this and that (use your imagination -.-)
What is talked about in this book will help all readers, whether new and unexperienced or 'old pros of the trade'...
Although it could be calssified as a 'textbook' the author makes it so easy to read. I finished the book in an evening.

An Excellent Introduction to SM
This is a wonderful 'starter' book for those new to SM. I can not claim to know how a veteran player might feel about it, as I am still a novice in the realm of BDSM. I picked this book up, as well as Different Loving, initially for my boyfriend. We have a very open, communicative relationship and our trust level is very high, but he seemed to feel that my sexual preferences were, to say the least, disturbed. I was having a terrible time trying to convey to him that BDSM can be a very caring, loving, and almost spiritual experience between two individuals who truly care about each other's well being. This book has helped our communication and experimentation tremendously. The autor has a very straightforward aproach to an extremely taboo topic. I can not imagine the courage it took to make a leap of faith into the public press as he did. He stresses safety very strongly (which in my opinion is highly commendable), gives basic instruction on methods of delivering, and receiving forms of erotic pain, bondage and other aspects of BDSM. It is very much a 'how to' beginner's manual for people interested in exploring the realm of sexual dominance and submission. I highly recommend it to anyone who is thinking of exploring this realm of alternative sexuality, as well as for those who are already well established in their sexual preferences. I am sure that even those who think they know everything could find use for this book. Even if it is used as a means to help educate others who are unaware of what BDSM is actually about. I also reccomend Different Loving in addition to this book. Where SM 101 is a how to guide, Different Loving explores the mentality and psychology of those involved in BDSM relationships. They make wonderful companion books in exploring the total experience. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Human Sexuality   2. Love / Sex / Marriage   3. Psychology   4. Sexual Instruction   5. Sex Instruction   6. Sex Customs   7. Sadomasochism   

Subjects:  1. Audio Adult: Other   2. General   3. Music   

Customer Reviews (1)

Delivers what it says....
I used this book (actually the 3rd edition) in preparing for my comprehensive exams for my master's degree. The title is descriptive. The book is short excerpts of key writings on the organization theory. The selection of readings is appropriate. The only complaint I have is that sometimes I wished I had the complete book in question! On the other hand, some of this stuff is really dry. If you are pursuing the field in an academic way, this is a valuable book. But I can't imagine reading it for enjoyment or idle curioisity. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Business / Economics / Finance   2. Economics - General   3. General   4. History & Theory - General   5. Management - General   6. Political Science   7. Politics/International Relations   8. Business & Economics / Management   

Customer Reviews (4)

A must read for changing or enhancing total rewards
This book provides an excellent framework for thinking through the process of changing and enahancing total rewards. It takes a broader perspective on rewards and compensation and hits the key components of a successful reward strategy right on the head! I would recommend this book to HR professionals and senior leaders interested in driving real and effective change in the way your organization rewards its associates. Well done!

Comprehensive. Thorough.
In today's increasingly competitive employment market, compensation is a powerful part of the package used to attract and hold top talent. Although recent research has confirmed that money is not as dominant a factor as it has been in the past, there is no denying that the Almighty Dollar still plays a central role.

If compensation is not designed properly, an organization could be dangerously vulnerable to attack from the raiding recruiters who do know how to do it right. Thus, pay plans become a vital defense as well as a powerful attracting offensive tool. The problem is that many employers, including human resource professionals, don't have a sufficient understanding of how-and why-to pay people appropriately.

Pay People Right serves as a fine textbook for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the right ways to reward employees financially for their contributions. As the authors observe in their preface, "Much of the popular literature on management and organizational change avoids issues of pay, perhaps because it's harder to address than many gentler and less powerful change tools the literature proposes. Changing pay requires patience and constant attention." They contend that compensation design-pay and other rewards-can influence worker performance to the extent that it can change a company's achievement and destiny. Zingheim and Schuster suggest that compensation is even more of a strategic tool than it has been in the past, particularly in these times of mergers and acquisitions, consolidations, and globalization

Organization

The book is well-organized for a read-through as well as for reference at a later date. The first chapter addresses Total Rewards and the Six Reward Principles. The principles begin with Create a Positive and Natural Reward Experience. The key is communication and education. The next principle is to align rewards with business goals to create a win-win partnership. People who work for the company add value, which should be rewarded.

We should ensure that everyone is a knowledgeable stakeholder in the overall success of the company. That's the third principle: Extend people's line of sight. The fourth principle is Integrate Rewards: move beyond total pay to include total rewards. Fifth, reward individual ongoing value with base pay. Evaluate competency, performance, and the employee's value in the marketplace. I like the sixth principle: reward results with variable pay-flexiblity, agility, responsiveness.

The authors emphasize the four components of total rewards: individual growth, compelling future, total pay, and positive workplace. It's not just the money. This comprehensive approach leads to a broader strategy.

The second chapter makes the business case for changing rewards, leading to chapter on integrating total pay. The chapter on measuring and managing performance completes the first section of the book, focusing on compensation being a vital part of performance management.

The second part of the book addresses a wide range of pay tools including base pay, short-term and long-term variable pay, and recognition and celebration. The discussion on infrastructure helps the reader understand the foundation of how compensation is designed.

Part III of Pay People Right addresses how rewards are used in several different situations. Readers learn how to reward teams, scarce talent, sales professionals, and executives. In this section the authors address how rewards are used in merger and acquisition situations and in the complicated world of globalization. Chapter 15 on Global Rewards is particularly valuable for employers concerned with compensating people from different countries doing different kinds of work under different conditions. The exploration of global talent as a specific focus was enlightening . . . and, importantly, current.

The book is practical in its approach. Theory is translated effectively into practice so the textbook becomes a useful handbook, as well. The index works-I checked a number of issues and questions of interest-to help the reader find specifics to answer questions and get the job done.

Great treatment of a difficult subject
Everyone has an opinion on pay, but no one brings the depth of experience and level of insight to this subject the way these two authors do. Surveying the entire complex issue of how to pay people in a way that is fair and effective for the both the firm and the individual, Schuster and Zingheim have provided a practical road map that is easy for anyone to follow who really wants to "pay people right". If every manager in every company would read, digest, and act upon their advice much of the disfunction that plagues the workplace would be eliminated. A great book, and a great service to everyone. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Business & Economics   2. Business / Economics / Finance   3. Business/Economics   4. Compensation And Benefits   5. Compensation management   6. Entrepreneurship   7. Human Resources & Personnel Management   8. Management - General   9. Budgeting & financial management   10. Business & Economics / Human Resources & Personnel Management   11. Personnel & human resources management   

Customer Reviews (6)

This book puts it all together
For a business or proprietership this book definitely categorizes the guerilla marketing techniques so that you can make the best use of each weapon. It helped me put it all together so that I didn't put the cart before the horse. I don't have a marketing background but trying to start a business on a shoestring the 50 free weapons was a god send. His other books are great but very detailed. I couldn't see the forest for the trees. Using this book I made a marketing plan where I will be using 36 of the weapons in 30 days. Now, I understand why the mini cooper was such a huge success without a large advertising budget, using the tactics described in this book.
Thanks Jay!

Repackaged information.
It seems to me like Levinson barely put any effort into this book at all. There really is nothing new or groundbreaking in this book. To me, this was just a quick way for him to capitalize on his "Guerrilla Brand Name" to make an extra buck with recycled information. The concepts in this book were so basic, they were almost insulting. Maybe if you are 14 years old and have no prior entrepreneurial experience this is the book for you. I felt ripped off. I actually ended up throwing it away... Catchy title, but it does not deliver at all.

The Best Of The Guerrilla Series....
In other reviews I've classified this book as the "Greatest Hits" collection. Although this is the lowest cost book in the series, it condenses most (if not all) of the suggestions that have made the Guerrilla Series so popular. Since this book has been written primarily for small and medium sized business owners, much of what it contains may be basic for experienced advertising and marketing professionals. However, for the rest of us (business owners), the Series is a welcomed business partner. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Advertising   2. Business / Economics / Finance   3. Business/Economics   4. Management   5. Marketing   6. Marketing - General   7. Small Business - General   8. Small business   

Customer Reviews (9)

A Must Read For High School Techies!
Stage Rigging Hand Book is a great book for anyone responsible for rigging. It covers very important topics and safety issues. Working in one of the biggest and best high school theatres in the state of Virginia, I can say that this book is a major help on any rigging job and is an indispensable book when safety is concerned (and when is safety not involved?). If you are a TD at any high school with a rigging system you must have this book.

Nothing Better
As an instructor in the Canadian College system, I have found this book best sits within easy reach. I am constantly using it as a teaching tool for my students and myself. I had the priviledge of attending a master class with Jay in 2001 and would recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity. When teamed with Harry Donovan, you will find no better pair to flood your mind with all that is entertainment rigging.

An Amazing Book
Jay O. Glerum has written a book filled with history and practical hard-to-find information every theatre tech should have in his/her library. This book is rich with clear illustrations and photos for just about every rigging situation you will encounter. It has chapters on "Loads and Reactions" "Block and Tackle Rigging" "Hemp Rigging" "Motorized Rigging" and much more. There's a very useful chapter on cutting and knotting rope. I was particularly impressed with the sections on "Special Problems" and "Recordkeeping". As today's threatres move more and more toward mechanized scene changes and motorized light rigs, a solid understanding of rigging techniques is more important than ever. Whether you are a novice or have years of experience ... whether you are an independent or on staff, Jay O. Glerum's "Stage Rigging Handbook" will improve your knowledge and give you a wealth of information. I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. General   2. Handbooks, manuals, etc   3. Play Production   4. Pop Arts / Pop Culture   5. Reference   6. Safety measures   7. Stage machinery   8. Stage management   9. Theater - Stagecraft   10. Theaters   

Subjects:  1. Anthropology - Cultural   2. Europe - Germany   3. History   4. History - General History   5. History: World   6. Holocaust   7. Jewish - General   8. Judaism   9. Judaism - General   10. Judaism - History   11. European history: postwar, from c 1945 -   12. Germany   13. History of specific racial & ethnic groups   14. Jewish studies   15. Religion / Judaism / General   

Customer Reviews (150)

Truly Enthralling Book
I was so enthralled by this book that I wanted to submit a second review to continue talking about it.

Winik presents a compelling case that April 1865 was the single most momentous 30-day period in our nation's 226-year history. The rapid-fire progression of events includes the fall of the Southern citadel of Richmond; Lee's last-gasp attempt to link up with Johnston's forces in North Carolina; Lincoln's far-sighted River Queen edict (advising lenient treatment of former Confederates after years of Total Warfare); the capitulation of Lee's once-mighty (and still dangerous) Army of Northern Virginia, Grant's benevolent terms of surrender, and the poignant Stacking of Arms at Appomattox; Lincoln's brutal assassination four days later and the failed conspiracy to decapitate the Union government; Lee's equanimity in defeat and his urgings for a peaceful re-incorporation in the Union; the manhunt for and slaying of the contempible Booth and the execution of his co-conspirators; Johnston's decision to ignore exhortations (from Davis and others) to prolong the conflict, and the magnanimous surrender fashioned by the warrior Sherman; the domino-like falling in line of other Rebel commanders like Forrest and Taylor.

From the rush of these events, a unified nation would emerge, and, Winik observes, the U.S. would be spared the prospect of continued partisan conflict and debilitating strife and division -- a fate that has beset so many other war-scarred nations.

Get this book and enjoy it. It's an excellent exposition of the role of the Civil War in forging a truly United States of America.

Good Book Despite Southern Apology
April 1865 is a good book despite its recurring theme of southern apology.

April 1865 gives a good description of the potential guerrilla war that the Civil War could have become if the southern generals had not agreed to surrender. Its description of the fighting in Missouri that devolved from banditry to butchery was chilling.

April 1865 also does a good job of providing ample background information on each historical character it highlights. The characterizations of Robert E. Lee and Jefferson Davis were excellent. By the end of the book, I had a real sense of having known a living Lee and Davis.

April 1865 suggests the South fought not to preserve and extent slavery but for self-determination. The war just happened to end about a month after the Confederate Congress agreed to allow slaves to be armed soldiers who would earn their freedom by fighting. This, southern leaders agreed, would lead to the end of slavery.

Lee is buoyed up by slighting Grant. Grant's presidency and work on Reconstruction is not mentioned.

Confederate cavalry leader Nathan Bedford Forrest's behavior during the Fort Pillow massacre of mostly black Union troops gets a pass (maybe he was responsible, maybe he wasn't). His later founding of the KKK in Tennessee isn't mentioned.

Start here if you have read nothing on the US Civil War
Note: I've written the following with the non-American reader (or the American reader who has read very little on the American Civil War) in mind.The American Civil War and particularly its end, in both manner and means, completed that which was begun in 1776. Previously "Americans had a constitution and a country before they had a nation." (p.373) The artificial state or series of states that existed before had now been forged in battle, firstly by southern consciousness , then by northern community and finally by Lincoln's assassination which engendered remorse even from Robert E. Lee himself. Laying Lincoln to rest was counterpart to Lee's surrender at Appomattox, I'd say. It wasn't just a president that was laid to rest, but the war too; and as parcel to that, the past as well---two nations growing in consciousness and being made into one (or at least put on the path toward such). That is the importance of the Civil War. It is the focus of this book; the developments on how this war did end, with enough of its antecedent details so that it requires no previous study or knowledge of Civil War history to appreciate it. The United States was a federal structure from its inception, not a national one; as such, citizens who had cast off their Britishness had little to replace such with, thereby strenthening ones loyalties to particular states. Most citizens had little experience other than a casual association through the post office with their federal government in fact. Meanwhile, the seemingly everpresent balance mantained in Washington between the slaveholding, farming south and industrializing (more populous) north; between its aristocratic past and future self, or progressive self, was being fought out over the issue of the possible expansion or curtailment of slavery. April 1865 was the month in which this issue was conclusively decided, but the manner in which it was, and that it was at all is the focus of this enjoyable read. If you are keenly interested in the American Civil War you ought to read this book. It is worth your time; it is, moreover, even if you have but a passing interest in this subject, just enough to delve into one book on the subject---388 pages to understand the heart of the American Civil War is more than a fair bargain, I'd say. I don't think you can understand the USA if you don't know anything about this era and the manner in which a multitude of states were forged into the beginning of a nation. The battles of the Civil War make fascinating reading too (and the actual battle sites are wonderful to visit as well), but your interest would be better served by reading this book before becoming absorbed in snapshots of the war as provided by studies on Gettysburg, Lee's command, or whatever. Cheers ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Appomattox Campaign, 1865   2. History   3. History - General History   4. History: American   5. Military - United States   6. United States - Civil War   7. History / United States / Civil War Period (1850-1877)   

Customer Reviews (9)

Jam-packed with useful tips
Start thumbing through this incredible book and the simple, practical, money-saving ideas just fly off the page. Lower airline fares ... easy upgrades ... the best hotel deals ... car rentals at a fraction of the usual cost ... how to use the Internet as your personal, economical travel agent. This is usable everyday advice you can apply immediately, not off-the-wall stuff you can never use in the real world. I read through it, cover to cover, and highlighted information of particular interest, while I was traveling to Houston on a flight for which I had overpaid to stay in a hotel where I could have almost halved my bill and gotten a better room, with better service, better meals -- well, you get the idea. I missed out on that trip, but I'll never miss out again. Guerrilla Travel Tactics now has a permanent spot in my travel bag.

Travel Tips That SAVE $$$
Since I travel extensively for my job, I thought I knew everthing about traveling and saving money. Well, I was wrong, and this book helped me save so much more by following some very simple advice by these travel experts. This book is perfect for anyone who travels for business and wants to know insider tips that help save money. Also, I never knew how to use my airline miles effectively, but Theo Brandt-Sarif really explained the best uses for miles and when to use those upgrades. Now I feel like a traveling pro and have recommended this book to my friends and family. In fact, my parents are planning their anniversary trip for next year and I've bought them a copy to help get the most of their trip. Thanks for writing this fabulous book.

The Road Warrior's SecretHandbook
My wife and I planned our honeymoon while reading this book and I can't tell you enough how much it helped us save money and make the most out of our traveling. We've read lots of travel books, but the tips in this book were more helpful and useful than anything else out there. We ended up staying at a posh hotel in cancun and received all sorts of upgrades and special services all because we used the tips and advice written in the book ! And, we also found out the best ways to use our airline miles so we can go to hawaii next year. We recommend this book to anyone who wants to travel the most cost effective way ... either for business or in our case, pleasure. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Business travel   2. Reference - General   3. Reference - Guides (General)   4. Travel   5. Travel - General   

Customer Reviews (2)

~How~ people contribute to performance ... MBA must-read!
The term "human capital management" has stepped into the long line of buzzwords that attempt to leverage people into increased organizational performance. Play to Your Strengths takes a step beyond the rhetoric to actually explore "how" to accomplish this. From their 3 critical questions -- led by "what are we spending on human capital (cost) and what is it buying us(value)?" -- to their six-factor framework defining human capital, the authors give insight into how organizations should measure the contribution of people to a company's bottom line. They also provide real company examples and perspectives from investors, CEOs, and managers.

As a professor of business management, I've found that one of the most difficult challenges is helping students to learn how they can actually make good decisions in deploying personnel. This book goes beyond the "soft" side of management, developing an approach that fits with the organizational imperative to heed the bottom line. I'll be using Play to Your Strengths as supplemental reading for my MBA courses.

Science, art, or a new lable for an old management tool?
Whenever guru-accented statements like "leveraging human capital to produce results" I feel a quiver, not of excitement, but of caution. However, management trainees and schools like label-accented seminars and books, so this title, Play to Your Strengths, isn't anything that will offend anyone.
People are generally any company's core area asset. Despite the company's product, service, busines strategy, market share and management structure and reorganizations,it's people who ultimately make the differnce. People who are at the top, bottom, and between.
Apparently, this book is backed by a $10 million study. Hopefully, it was money well-spent. Human capital, in all of its forms - internal, external, management, labor and regulatory, is vital to understand, to appreciate, and to show appreciation for. As well, in today's world, the ethical element of conducting business is one that needs to be mentioned more often.
Frank G Anderson
MBA, Information Management
Korat, Thailand
Tel. 044-274972
mobile: 01-8773981 ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Business & Economics   2. Business / Economics / Finance   3. Business/Economics   4. Competition   5. Human Resources & Personnel Management   6. Human capital   7. Labor   8. Labor Productivity   9. Management - General   10. Organization Theory   11. Organizational effectiveness   12. Business & Economics / Labor   

Customer Reviews (34)

Publicity is a great tool for Guerrilla Marketers. Read on.
The whole Guerrilla Marketing paradigm is based on using non-financial resources to do your marketing especially when you are strapped for cash as a small business. Read 'Guerrilla Marketing' by this author before reading this book on publicity as it is a precursor to any of the books in this best selling series.

Since the Guerrilla Marketing plans are all based on a lot of imagination, intellect, and effort, Guerrilla Publicity is probably one of the best tools to use (it's free!). Publicity is defined by the author as 'the art of building favorable interest in your product or service. It's creating a buzz, an identity, name recognition, and getting your message across. Publicity is a part of public relations'.

The hundreds of publicity ideas are summarized in about thirty three 2-3 page chapters that pull together related ideas. As with all of this author's books, this book is very easy to understand and implement. The only complaint I have is that the sections on Internet related publicity are a little weak. Even though there is no perfect book on the subject of Internet publicity, there are better books out there than this one. But even so, the Internet related sections are very good, just not at the same level as the rest of the book.

Publicity as a marketing tool is probably one of the hardest things for a small business to master as most small businesses are formed out of technical competence before being forced to learn all the other skills needed for a successful business - marketing, sales, management, etc. After reading this book, I became even more committed to mastering the art and science of publicity as a marketing tool. No small business can avoid this tool on the path to success.

Go ahead and invest in this inexpensive book. You won't regret it. Good luck!

Packed with Knowledge!
Co-authors Rick Frishman and Jill Lublin join Jay Conrad Levinson, author of the 1983 bestseller Guerrilla Marketing, in establishing the war plan for your guerrilla approach to publicity. You supply the planning and persistence; they'll supply the battlefield strategy. The authors take you into the newsrooms and show you how to generate publicity without making reporters dread your calls. You'll learn how to turn rejections into opportunities and how to muster every tool in your arsenal most effectively, from press releases to e-mail. It's a little too list-oriented, but this thorough manual does include plenty of sample materials, including bios, press kit components and printed promotional goodies. We from getAbstract recommend this book to savvy strategists who aren't afraid of wanting - and getting - attention.

Govt communicators should also see Media Relations Handbook
All of Levinson's books are great, but government communicators should also see a practical book written by a Washington pro, Media Relations Handbook for Agencies, Associations, Nonprofits and Congress. The Handbook is written by Brad Fitch, who has more than a decade of Washington PR experience, with a Foreword by Mike McCurry.

What others have said about Fitch's book (about which you can see more at MediaRelationsHandbook.com ):

"Great advice for beginners and experienced media hands. If you are a media relations professional--either beginner or seasoned veteran--this is the book for you. Brad Fitch, who spent many years fielding reporters' tough questions on Capitol Hill, has written a timely, practical guide to handling media relations that is filled with solid professional advice. What goes into a press release? How do you develop a strategic message? You've got a digital camera and a fax machine, but what else does your office need to effectively handle the media? Before you start talking to a reporter, do you know the difference between 'on the record,' 'off the record,' and 'background'? When there's an immediate crisis in your organization, what are the eight mistakes that you absolutely must avoid? How do you handle your paranoid boss when he or she has to confront the press? You'll find the answers to these and many other everyday problems in this book. Fitch also gives valuable advice on how to set up an effective website and how to use e-mail for optimum communications. Excellent book for professionals who work in federal or state agencies, trade associations, non-profits, state legislatures or Congress. It's the only handbook you'll ever need."
-- Dennis W. Johnson, college professor and former Capitol Hill senior staffer

"Provides valuable advice for those who flack for a living."
-- Roll Call

"A superb blend of theory and practice, written by someone who uses words like Gallup uses polls."
-- Steve O'Keefe, author "Complete Guide to Internet Publicity" and Adjunct Faculty, Tulane University College

"Uncertain how to interest the press in your pressing issue? Having difficulty preparing your media-unfriendly boss for a tough interview? Worried about the next communications crisis and how to handle it? Brad Fitch answers those questions and many more in this crisp, clear and completely useful book."
-- Tucker Carlson, Co-Host CNN Crossfire, author

"A seminar from TheCapitol.Net is one of the best ways to learn from the experts about how Washington really works. Now all that insight and information has been packed into this invaluable volume. I suggest you read it, and become your own expert."
-- Steven V. Roberts, syndicated columnist, TV and radio analyst, college professor

"Brad Fitch has performed an admirable public service by giving public relations students and professionals alike an indispensable tool. His book provides a road map on both the practicalities and principles of PR, and he shows that honest PR is not an oxymoron. Now it's up to all of us in the media and spin industries to keep our end of the bargain."
-- Ed Henry, Congressional Correspondent, CNN (formerly Senior Editor of Roll Call)

"This volume is an invaluable road map to the mean streets of a city where information is power and power is everything. Brad Fitch has written a rich 'how-to' lesson for pros and for novices who must negotiate the competitive landscape of America's new media."
-- Ann Compton, White House Correspondent, ABC News

"Media Relations Handbook is to political campaigns what The Art of War is to military campaigns: an essential strategic reference that winners should never be without."
-- James Carville, Co-Host CNN Crossfire, author

If you are a government comunicator, you should get Guerrilla Publicity and Fitch's book, MediaRelationsHandbook.com , or search Amazon using the ISBN: 1587330032 ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Advertising   2. Advertising & Promotion   3. Business & Economics   4. Business / Economics / Finance   5. Business/Economics   6. Industrial publicity   7. Marketing   8. Public Relations   9. Sales & Selling - Techniques   

Customer Reviews (5)

Layered approach to multi-level security
This is one of the most pragmatic, thorough books on security architectures I've read. The approach the author takes represents best practices in a number of disciplines, including architecture, software engineering, and infrastructure management. This holistic view of security architecture is not provided in total in any of the hundreds of security books I've read.

Among the reasons I like and recommend this book are: the approach starts with architectural principles and a survey of approaches based on well known models, as well as development life cycles in the real world. The chapter on security assessments shows how to determine a security posture, establish a baseline and deal with gaps. In addition, the chapters on Security Architecture Basics and Architecture Patterns will provide the foundation of a viable approach to designing a strong security architecture.

I also like the way each architectural building block is systematically covered in subsequent chapters, beginning in Part II with low-level architecture components and technical details that span code review techniques, cryptography fundamentals and related topics. Part III covers the mid-level components in detail, including middleware, web, database, application and OS security. Part IV tackles high-level security, culminating in an enterprise security architecture based on low- and mid-level components, and the process-oriented approach provided in the previous parts of the book. This book goes deep into technical details of every facet of the components, showing how they work, interrelationships, standards, and advice for how to deal with challenges and vulnerabilities.

Making the business case for security, the topic of Part V, is as thorough and detailed as the preceding technical chapters. Case studies, issues and factors, costs and underlying financial formulae are tied together to help you to craft a viable and realistic business case for proceeding with the design and implementation of a security architecture.

This book is focused, covers the entire landscape of security architecture, design and implementation, and leaves no gaps. I strongly recommend it as the workgroup reference in the standards & architecture, software engineering, project, and infrastructure domains.

The Most Practical Security Design Book I've Read
I am primarily a systems engineer with an emphasis on system and network security. This book provides an excellent framework and methodology for developing a security architecture from the ground up. It's avoids a purely academic approach by including methods that can be applied in the real world. The book reads well and is indexed in a manner that allows it to be used as a desk reference. This is currently the best security book on my shelf. Buy this book!!!

Best Security Architecture I Have Seen
Although there are a number of books claiming to talk about security architecture, this one really does! This book is really helpful in describing the high level concepts that security engineers should know when developing a security architecture. It is a little weak on cost-benefit analyses, but provides a good foundation for security architects. Clearly, the author has given some thought to the content and does more than tell anecdotes and describe various security technologies. I highly recommend this book to anyone designing a security architecture. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Computer Bks - Communications / Networking   2. Computer Books: General   3. Computer security   4. Computers   5. Networking - General   6. Security   7. Computer architecture & logic design   8. Computers / Networking / General   9. Data security & data encryption   10. Social & Legal Aspects of Computing   

Customer Reviews (1)

Sophisticated Reading Strategies for Students in All Grades
This is an excellent book for teachers in all areas of education. Since reading is the basis for all learning, this book is very useful for classroom teachers, parents, reading specialists, and other readers who would like to become more efficient at reading a variety of texts as well as developing independent skills within the process of reading, rather than after-the-fact. Specifically for teachers, this book outlines basic strategies that can easily be used in the classroom. For students with minimal reading ability, the strategies are explained with the use of academic language that many disabled middle school and young adult readers would appreciate as lifelong strategies to use in a variety of reading contexts. I appreciate the fact that while the authors gave credit to instruction of the past, they provided reasons for change in application as we move students toward a world of problem solving and decision making. In my opinion, I cannot think of any other way I would want to teach my students to read and develop a sense of purpose and love of learning. I'm sorry that my teachers did not approach reading instruction with such a worldly view. Not only am I a better teacher, I am also a better reader. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Education   2. General   3. Language Arts / Linguistics / Literacy   4. Reading   5. Research   6. Teaching Methods & Materials - Reading   

Parents, do you know the names of your teen's three closest friends? And teens, do you know what your parents are putting most of their energy into right now? Twenty-two-year-old Jay McGraw, bestselling author of Life Strategies for Teens and son of another bestselling author, Phillip C. McGraw, a.k.a. Dr. Phil, wants parents and teens to find the answers to these questions and begin to bridge the familial gap. With the same fresh-faced, upbeat energy he displayed in his first book, Jay McGraw dispels myths, finds antidotes to "parent poisons," defuses "teenage land mines," and offers a refresher course in teen and parent dos and don'ts. McGraw comes from a unique perspective: a young man barely out of his teens himself, he also has grown up steeped in the tough-love life strategies training and wisdom of his father. Using real-life examples, and translating his dad's life rules into teenage-ese, young McGraw is able to reach a much more challenging audience--teens--as well as their parents, both of whom will appreciate his empathic straight talk and reality checks as they begin to find common ground again. (Ages 13 and older) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

closing future gaps
The bad news is that for myself and my own teenagers this book came a little late...about 10 years. The good news is that for my now adult children and my soon to be 8 grandchildren you can never start to early to prepare yourself and your kids for those teenage years. I bought 5 copies of Closing the Gap. I originally bought one to give to my younger brother who's daughter is in the midst of teenage years-15. He started asking me what I had done when my kids were going through the insanity. I was flattered he valued my opinion until I gave it and he said "Thanks, now at least I know what not to do." I took it as a joke, but truth be told, I had made a mistake or 12. I bought him the book so he would have a clue of what was the 'right' thing to do. I didn't intend to read it(teenagers??? been there, done that, don't want to go back), but picked it up one night out of boredom, expecting to get a laugh or two out of some old memories and a chuckle over my brothers reactions to what I thought would be the 'experts' advice. I did get a chuckle, but I also got a surprise...I wished I could of had that book way before my kids became teens.
In the true Mcgraw fashion it's common sense slapped right in your face at precicely the correct velocity to make you open your eyes without making it hurt so bad you refuse to see the truth. I am sending a copy to each of my 4 children for my birthday. I can't think of a better birthday present than to give my grandchildren an edge my children didn't have. This little book made a big difference in my outlook and hopefully will make a big difference in the future of those most precious to me.

Rubbish
Jay McGraw is obviously just trying to ride his father's coat tails, unfortunately, he possesses none of the talent or skill his father does. If you want to read a patronizing, annoying account of teen life, this is the book for you!

Worthy of Consideration On Its Own Merit
When reviewing this book as well as Life Strategies for Teens, I do so as a father and grandfather. It remains for teenagers (for whom the books were written) to suggest the relevance, indeed the value of one or both to them. Obviously, he has been influenced by the opinions of his father. (That is true of all sons.) Also obvious is the fact that McGraw agrees with his father that closing the gap between potential and fulfillment is highly beneficial for anyone, regardless of age or circumstance. He is primarily interested in the gap which often develops between a teenager and her or his parents. Indeed, teenagers (as do adults) also have all manner of relationships with non-family members; those with peers can sometimes have greater influence on their values and behavior than do any others.

My own personal experience suggests that most of the major problems in parent-teenager relationships are caused by (a) breakdowns in communication between them which result in misunderstandings, distrust, and frustration and/or (b) diminished self-image which results in a deep and painful sense of inadequacy and, in some instances, a sense of complete failure. McGraw offers several excellent guidelines for closing various "gaps" while realizing, I assume, that a parent's relationship with a 13-year old son or daughter poses for each quite different challenges than does a parent's relationship with a 19-year old. These challenges are complicated by certain issues which are unique to mother-son, mother-daughter, father-son, and father-daughter. Hence the importance of effective communication to each of these four relationships during the years through which a daughter or son proceeds from 13 to 19.

McGraw should not be expected to provide all of the "right answers." No longer a teenager but not yet a parent (insofar as I know), he should also not be expected to ask all the "right questions." The value of his book will probably vary, depending on how receptive a parent or teenager is to considering a 22-year old's opinions and recommendations. My own suggestion is that the content of this book should be carefully considered on its own merit, without regard to the identify or age of its author. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Children's 12-Up - Psychology / Counseling   2. Communication in the family   3. Family & Relationships   4. Family relationships   5. Family/Marriage   6. Interpersonal Relations   7. Parent and teenager   8. Parenting   9. Psychology   10. Teenagers   11. Self-Help / General   

Customer Reviews (1)

Excellent for those with net worth > $5Million
Most people of wealth make several false starts with comprehensive income and estate planning. This book describes a method of first determining your life purpose and goals by an extensive interview process. Only then can the technical aspects of planning be addressed.

Well written book by the director of the National Assn of Family Wealth Counselors. If you are a person of means this is a safe starting point to a network of highly qualified and competent FWCs.

The author asks: "If you had to choose between giving one million dollars away to the IRS in estate taxes or giving that same one million to your favorite charity, which would you prefer?" Great question. To fail to plan is to give half or more of your estate away to the IRS.

This book will provide good insight if your net worth is $2-5 Million or you are a financial counselor. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

the best available complete edition
I am currently using this edition for my University undergraduate course. It is simply the most comprehensive edition available in one volume. The introductions to each play offer stimulating views using modern, contemporary criticism and the 'scene-setting' introduction to the collection, by Greenblatt, is highly informative. The text is wonderfully readable and actually makes you want to pick it up (or lay it on a table given its size) and just read. I like the thin pages, although they are susceptible to creasing, as it makes it feel as though you're reading a Bible - a suitable analogy I think. Recommendable to anyone interested in Shakespeare - this is an edition which does justice to his greatness (anyway I'd better stop wasting time on the 'Net and get back to my essay on 'Othello'!).

One bard, one book
As a fervent admirer of Shakespeare, this complete collection, comprising excellent introductions to each play and helpful textual notes as well as informative writings on the history of both England and the art of acting that shaped Shakespeare's writing, was like a dream come true. While before I had to walk around trying to find a good edition of the play I wanted to read, now I can open the Norton Shakespeare and read without being afraid of not understanding words or missing the point of the play. This book's obvious drawbacks are its heft and, as mentioned, its delicate pages, but these are easily outweighed by the abovementioned advantages! Buy it and read!

The Best Available
I am new to Shakespeare and have started to read about him, his times, his works, and as a hobby try to become fairly knowledgeable about him and his place in our literary history. Starting from the basics I have reviewed a number of books and eventually I put together a "listmania" list of about 22-25 books. I am still not an expert nor do I claim such.

Having said that, to get your feet wet there are a few good biographies and I like the Anthony Burgess book "Shakespeare" that is an easy read and just over 200 pages long. Also there are a few other books and tour guides such as the new DK guide with lots of maps and photos. Then there are books such as Boyce's book "Shakespeare A to Z".

But I think the crown jewel of the books available is the present book almost 3500 pages long with CD which rises head and shoulders above anything else on the market. It is simply an excellent book by a group of highly qualified editors using the resources of Oxford. Obviously it can be improved but as of now it is the leader.

Jack in Toronto ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Classics   2. Literary Criticism   3. Plays / Drama   4. Shakespeare   5. English   6. Shakespeare plays, texts   7. Shakespeare studies & criticism