Infectious by Achim Nowak - Book review

Infectious

How to Connect Deeply and Unleash the Energetic Leader Within

By: Achim Nowak

Published: January 2, 2013
Hardcover: 232 pages
ISBN-10: 1581159242
ISBN-13: 978-1581159240
Publisher: Allworth Press











"We communicate at a furious pace - yet we connect less and less", writes performance coach, leadership guide, and author of the insightful and very practical book Infectious: How to Connect Deeply and Unleash the Energetic Leader Within. The author describes how despite the rapid expansion of technology, and increased communication between leaders and followers, they make fewer and much less effective connections.

Achim Nowak recognizes that establishing and developing personal connections are crucial to building successful leadership. The author points out that despite the desire of leaders to communicate more with others, both in person and electronically, they are not nurturing any real deep and personal connections. Achim Nowak offers the many connection inhibiting beliefs and habits that prevent real connections from taking place.

The author makes clear that without deep and meaningful connections, leaders will never achieve the level of success for themselves, for their followers, and for their organizations that the seek. To overcome this challenge, Achim Nowak presents the concept of connectability as an essential leadership tool that can be learned by anyone.



Achim Nowak (photo left) understands that connections are made in stages, and with different levels of intensity and depth. The ability to connect, according to the author, can be learned, and engagement with others improves with practice.

To achieve deeper connections, Achim Nowak shares his Four Levels of Connection. Along with the four levels, the author provide she necessary tool set to achieve better engagement and connections with other people. The Four Levels of Engagement are as follows:

* The Talk Level: Creating meaningful conversations
* The Power Level: Putting your personal power to work
* The Intent Level: Being alert, acting with purpose, and with firm goals to achieve
* The Energy Level: Connection at the heart and soul level for deep relationships

For me, the power of the book is how Achim Nowak combines a deep and rich framework and philosophy for building connections, with the practical tools and practices to make those deep and lasting connections a reality. The author breaks down his Four Levels of Connection into easily understood sections, complete with examples of the principles in action in the real world. Achim Nowak presents ideas that are tested and proven effective over fifteen years of coaching and leadership training.

With the levels of engagement and connection understood in theory, the leader is then able to utilize the tested tools for establishing deeper connections. Each chapter is subdivided into subheadings and subsections to further develop the tools and skills needed to ever deepen the connection with others, Numerous charts and graphics provide additional visual aids to further facilitate the learning and understanding of the tools for connections.

I highly recommend the very hands on and highly effective book Infectious: How to Connect Deeply and Unleash the Energetic Leader Within by Achim Nowak, to any leaders at all levels who are seeking a real world proven, and readily applicable set of tools and skills for enriching interpersonal connections. instead of simply communicating with others, you will instead find yourself connecting with people in new and exciting ways.

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A Companion to New Media Dynamics edited by John Hartley, Jean Burgess & Axel Bruns - Book review

A Companion to New Media Dynamics

Edited by: John Hartley, Ph.D., Jean Burgess, Ph.D., Axel Bruns, Ph.D.

Published: February, 28, 2013
Format: Hardcover, 520 pages
ISBN-10: 1444332244
ISBN-13: 978-1444332247
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell















"Capitalism, technology, social networks, and media all evolve and change, sometimes to our delight,sometimes our dismay. This incessant process of disruption, renewal, and eventual (if not partial) replacement is now one of humanity's central experiences", write editors Professor of Cultural Science and Director of the Centre for Culture and Technology at Curtin University, John Hartley; Associate Professor of Digital Media Studies, Creative Industries Faculty, School of Media, Entertainment, Creative Arts, Media and Communication, Queensland University of Technology, Jean Burgess: and Associate Professor in the Creative Industries Faculty,School of Media, Entertainment, Creative Arts,Media and Communication, Queensland University of Technology, Axel Bruns in their comprehensive and multi-disciplinary anthology A Companion to New Media Dynamics. The editors provide a widely based collection of essays, by leading international contributors, on the various approaches to current and future developments of new media practices within contemporary culture.



John Hartley (photo left), Jean Burgess, and Axel Bruns present a series of essays relating to new media from the viewpoint of dynamic change. This change inspired approach includes readings from disciplines ranging from culture and the arts to politics and the social sciences. The contributions also consider media dynamics aspects relating to technology and the sciences.

Discussion of media ownership, regulation, and public policy are examined through their impact on, as well as from dynamic change. Other papers include a consideration of new media dynamics in terms of scale. The three degrees of scale include the macro scale at the overall system level, the meso scale at the level of institutions, and the micro scale in terms of agencies and individual outlets.



Jean Burgess (photo left), Axel Bruns, and John Hartley provide a glimpse into the very powerful forces of innovation and creative destruction that bring about dynamic change in media. While these forces are not new, and economic and political influences are critical in the still strong old media, the papers look at their impact on and from new media.

The book's approach is distilled into three overarching sections. The three major parts of the book include sub-heading as well:

Part 1: Approaches and Antecedents

Part 2: Issues and Identities
* Agency
* Mobility
* Enterprise
* Search
* Network
* Surveillance

Part 3: Forms, Platforms, and Practices
* Culture and identity
* Politics, participation, and citizenship
* Knowledge and new generations



Axel Bruns (photo left), John Hartley, and Jean Burgess combine effectively contributions on the overall theoretical aspects of new media dynamics, with the various aspects of technology and societal considerations in what for me, is the power of the book. The international roster of contributors is not only outstanding for the quality of the papers published in the volume, but for the diversity of their backgrounds as well.

Included are presentations from researchers, academics, and entrepreneurs who share their insights into the ever evolving dynamics of new media in contemporary culture.

To ensure that all aspects of the topics are addressed, the chapters uses an approach to new media that emphasizes their generative potential, market adoption and monetary benefits, and their retention within a corporate setting. This approach also considers the cultural, political, and arts based uses and applications of the dynamics inherent in new media, and also in the legacy old media channels.

I highly recommend the all encompassing and widely landmark book to any new and old media leaders, entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, technologists, academics, students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, government officials, public policy makers, nonprofit executives, and anyone interested in the ever changing and dynamic landscape of new media. This book provides insights and ideas that will provide the seed for future change and innovation across the entire new and old media environment.

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The Magic Question by David Cottrell - Book review

The Magic Question

A Simple Question Every Leader Dreams of Answering

By: David Cottrell

Published: December 19, 2012
Format: Hardcover, 112 pages
ISBN-10: 0071806164
ISBN-13: 978-0071806169
Publisher: McGraw-Hill












"'How can I help?' Isn't that the question every leader longs to hear?" writes CEO and President of CornerStone Leadership Institute, David Cottrell, in his timeless leadership wisdom filled and very transformational book The Magic Question: A Simple Question Every Leader Dreams of Answering. The author describes how to connect and engage people to get real and tangible results through establishing The Magic Question as part of the organizational culture.

David Cottrell recognizes that leadership is full of complexities because of the necessity of dealing with teams of very unique people. As a result, the author removes the complexity from the role of leadership and breaks it down into six key components. Fie David Cottrell, the six principles are in the form of answering the six crucial questions that are asked constantly by team members. The questions are deeply rooted in human psychology, and revolve around employees wanting to know what is happening within the organization, their role within it, and how well they are performing their responsibilities. David Cottrell provides evidence that leaders who answer these six questions with clarity, will establish teams that work together better, are more engaged, and achieve superior results.



David Cottrell (photo left) understands that if a team is actively engaged and working with enthusiasm, that employees will have higher levels of morale, greater job satisfaction, and are less likely to leave the organization. The leader who answers the six questions clearly will connect with team members and begin to the hear what the author calls The Magic Question. That question is "How can I help?"

The author presents the following six questions, that team members ask whether the leader is present or not, to which leaders must respond:

* The first question: What is REALLY important?
* The second question: How am I doing?
* The third question: How is our team doing?
* The fourth question: Do you care?
* The fifth question: What difference do we make?
* The sixth question: Are you worth following?

For me, the power of the book is how David Cottrell combines proven leadership ideas and wisdom with the practical and hands on steps to put them into action. The author simplifies the often over analyzed concept of leadership. Instead of making the principles of leadership and engaging team members into an overly complicated exercise, David Cottrell breaks the concepts down into six basic questions asked by employees. Those six basic questions, once answered with clarity and consistency on the part of the leader, lead to the ultimate Magic Question. To his credit, the author warns leaders that getting to that Magic Question will not be easy.

Instead, David Cottrell guides leaders on that journey, that is much about learning about themselves, as it is about learning about the needs, goals, and desires of the team members. The author provides important introspective questions, as well as team based questions, in every chapter to ensure that leaders work toward connecting with their staff members. David Cottrell also shares important insights, action plans, and practices to ensure that the leader maintains the confidence of the team, and builds that all important employee engagement.

I highly recommend the very clear and concise book The Magic Question: A Simple Question Every Leader Dreams of Answering by David Cottrell, to leaders at all levels of their organizations who are seeking a hands on and readily applied guide to achieving effective leadership of teams. This book will give leaders the basic tools they need to establish the trust and connection necessary to start hearing The Magic Question.

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Help The Grow or Watch The Go by Beverly Kaye & Julie Winkle Giulioni - Book review

Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go

Career Conversations Employees Want

By: Beverly Kaye, Julie Winkle Giulioni

Published: September 17, 2012
Format: Paperback, 144 pages
ISBN-10: 1609946324
ISBN-13: 978-1609946326
Publisher: Berrett-Koehler Publishers







"Developing employees. Helping them grow. It's like eating properly or exercising. You know it's good. You know you should. Yet, if you're like many managers today, you just don't do it as well or as frequently as you would like", write founder and CEO of Career Systems International, Beverly Kaye; and co-founder and principal of DesignArounds, Julie Winkle Giulioni, in their concise and very hands on book Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go: Career Conversations Employees Want. The authors describe how despite the clear evidence for beneficial results for employees, managers and their organizations, clear development is often overlooked as an engagement tool, and they share their proven and practical techniques for establishing a culture of employee career development that really works.



Beverly Kaye (photo left) and Julie Winkle Giulioni recognize that organizations and managers are stretched very thinly in terms of resources, and that very often it is employee career development that becomes a casualty of a belt tightening event. The authors demonstrate that within today's changing business environment, career development is more important to the organization than ever before.

Since the authors point out that for many firms, talent is what separates them from their competition, career development provides a real and tangible bottom line benefit. Unfortunately, many companies make career development a low priority, or so complicated and bureaucratic, that busy managers either ignore the process or are opposed to its implementation.



Julie Winkle Giulioni (photo left) and Beverly Kaye understand that incorporating employee development into the company strategy and culture presents a real challenge for business leaders. It is a challenge, however, that managers at all levels must take seriously or risk losing employee engagement, and even their most talented people to their competitors. The problem for many managers, when they do consider career development, is that they are not given the tools, skills, or resources to properly guide and engage their staff members in the process.

The authors share three important types of conversation that managers can have with their employees to better understand employee career goals. They also provide advice for managers to offer feedback to the staff member about how to strengthen their position and skill level within the company. The three types of conversation are as follows:

* Hindsight conversations to determine where the employee has been and is now
* Foresight conversations to help the employee look forward to recognize change
* Insight conversations to help the employee grow and perform in the future

For me, the power of the book is how Beverly Kaye and Julie Winkle Giulioni combine a powerful overview of the reasons why employee development is so important, with the practical techniques and conversations to make employee career development a reality. The authors develop a strong case for organizational employee development while addressing the most common myths and misconceptions that surround the concept. The book makes very clear that without establishing a clear conversation with employees, and engaging them in a developmental role, the company will very likely lose its most promising and high performing talent to other employers.

The authors recognize the crucial importance of conversations with employees, and really listening to them, to understand their goals and aspirations for their careers. At the same time, valuable advice is offered to managers for offering vital feedback to staff members, and for sharing honest outlooks for those employees, in a time of transformation in the workplace structure. The authors provide the critical questions that managers should ask their employees, and offer the exercises and practices that will build employee engagement and create a culture or employee career development.

I highly recommend the very insightful and comprehensive book Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go: Career Conversations Employees Want by Beverly Kaye and Julie Winkle Giulioni, to any managers and leaders, regardless of their level within an organization, who are serious about developing their valued employees, retaining their services, building engagement, and establishing a learning and people growing culture. This book will transform how you think about employee career development, overcome any obstacles to its successful implementation, and into an avowed advocate of the process throughout the entire company.

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The Art of Doing Good by Charles Bronfman & Jeffrey Solomon - Book review

The Art of Doing Good

Where Passion Meets Action

By: Charles Bronfman, Jeffrey Solomon

Published: September 11, 2012
Format:Hardcover, 288 pages
ISBN-10: 1118264355
ISBN-13: 978-1118264355
Publisher: Jossey-Bass








"This book has a fairly audacious goal: to teach you how to change the world. Not through warfare, politics, or technology, but through a unique social invention, the nonprofit, that is intended to do good on a grand scale", write Chairman of The Andrea & Charles Bronfman Philanthropies Inc., Charles Bronfman; and President of the Andrea and Charles Bronfman Philanthropies, Jeffrey Solomon, in their insightful and societal transforming book The Art of Doing Good: Where Passion Meets Action. The authors describe how to establish and manage a successful nonprofit organization, maintain its drive and spirit, overcome the many challenges along the way, and to change the world in the process.



Charles Bronfman (photo left) and Jeffrey Solomon understand that social entrepreneurs and even long time nonprofit professionals may have the all consuming drive to change the world, but may lack the experience to manage a new organization. The authors fill in that knowledge gap through sharing their own wealth of experience, combined with that of eighteen very innovative and successful social entrepreneurs.

The authors recognize that any new organization, regardless of its mission and membership commitment, will face challenges of management and leadership. By sharing the real world advice and experience, of both themselves and others, the authors present a blueprint for establishing and running a world changing nonprofit organization.



Jeffrey Solomon (photo left) and Charles Bronfman know from personal experience the power of a nonprofit organization to make real and positive change in the world. The authors also recognize that passion and and drive are not enough to achieve the goals and mission of the nonprofit. Whether the nonprofit is a fresh initiative, or an existing organization seeking to refresh its journey, the advice offered is both inspirational and practical.

The authors present their guidance in a useful and logical manner to aid the social entrepreneur in achieving their overall mission goals. The book is divided into four overarching sections, with each one containing chapters providing ready to apply concepts for each aspect of successful nonprofit management. The four parts of the book are as follows:

* Sources of inspiration
* Bringing your idea to life
* Managing the organization
* Resources

For me, the power of the book is how Charles Bronfman and Jeffrey Solomon combine a powerful theoretical background for social entrepreneurs, with real world proven advice for starting and managing a successful nonprofit organization. The authors present their own experiences with world class association management, along with eighteen other visionary social entrepreneurs who add their guidance to the book. The authors include all aspects of establishing and guiding a nonprofit in the carrying out of its mission.

The authors provide additional real value to the book with the inclusion of a comprehensive resources section. This indispensable portion of the book offers more sites and organizations from which to find more information on every aspect of nonprofit management. The short biographical sketches of the eighteen guest contributors offers more depth to their advice and vision as social entrepreneurs as well.

I highly recommend the visionary and inspirational book The Art of Doing Good: Where Passion Meets Action by Charles Bronfman and Jeffrey Solomon, to any aspiring or current social entrepreneurs, nonprofit organization managers, board members, and any one seeking a real world based guide to building and maintaining a successful and effective nonprofit organization. This valuable book will help you transform the world and change the lives of real people for the better through the effective implementation of your organizational mission.

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Leadership and the Art of Struggle by Steven Snyder - Book review

Leadership and the Art of Struggle

How Great Leaders Grow through Challenge and Adversity

By: Steven Snyder

Published: March 11, 2013
Format: Paperback, 216 pages
ISBN-10: 1609946448
ISBN-13: 978-1609946449
Publisher: Berrett-Koehler Publishers








"Leadership is often a struggle. Yet societal taboos often prevent leaders from talking openly and honestly about their struggles for fear of being perceived as ineffective and inadequate", writes leadership consultant and founder of Snyder Leadership Group, Steven Snyder, in his breakthrough and real world based book Leadership and the Art of Struggle: How Great Leaders Grow through Challenge and Adversity. The author describes how societal expect an unrealistic perfection in leaders that causes a loss of confidence and derails their careers, and offers embracing of struggle and failure as afresh approach to achieving success.

Steven Snyder understands that the most insightful and self aware leaders realize that leadership is a struggle, and leverage adversity to learn and master their internal and external challenges. The author points out that the denial of struggle, and by maintaining the false premise that struggle is a sign of weakness, leaders fail both themselves and their organizations. By failing to recognize their own blind spots, leaders will repeat the same mistakes over and over, and never reach either their own or their organizational potential. To counter this unfavorable behavior, Steven Snyder proposes that a leader should look inward for deeper self awareness. Instead of denying struggle, the author offers a fresh alternative where struggle is understood and embraced to achieve one's full potential as a leader.



Steven Snyder (photo left) recognizes that the necessity of thinking differently about leadership, and of re-framing struggles as helpful and positive learning experiences. For the author, leadership must be examined through an entirely different lens if the leaders is to reach their fullest potential. In this case, the lens is one of struggle, where potential is reached through mastery of adversity.

Steven Snyder presents the struggle lens as a way of becoming grounded and harnessing the leader's own energy as what he calls adaptive energy. The author offers the following principles for embracing struggle, a;long with the positive steps and exercises to transform them into a way of living as a leader:

* Becoming grounded
* Exploring new pathways
* Deepening adaptive energy

For me,the power of the book is how Steven Snyder uncovers the underlying psychological aspects of leadership, and builds on that self awareness to grow as a leader. The author points out that the struggle for leaders is within themselves. To overcome the often ingrained social mores that depict struggle as weakness, Steven Snyder repositions the concept of struggle as a powerful force for learning and developing leadership skills.

In this very hands on book, Steven Snyder shares the first person accounts of successful leaders who embraced the art of struggle to fulfill their destinies as effective leaders. Each chapter contains challenging questions that require the leader to look inward to seek out their own answers and understanding. The author also includes practical exercises to guide and assist the leader in this self discovery and self awareness building process. Implementing the exercises will break the old habits and limiting modes of thinking that prevent positive leadership breakthroughs.

I highly recommend the empowering and illuminating book Leadership and the Art of Struggle: How Great Leaders Grow through Challenge and Adversity by Steven Snyder, to any leaders at all levels who are seeking a insightful and powerful process to change how they approach struggle and adversity, so as to embrace these realities, and achieve both personal and organizational potential. This book will change how you think about leadership, its challenges, and the rewards of understanding the true nature of struggle.

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Beyond Good Intentions by Tori Hogan - Book review

Beyond Good Intentions

A Journey into the Realities of International Aid

By: Tori Hogan

Published: September 25, 2012
Format: Paperback, 304 pages
ISBN-10: 158005434X
ISBN-13: 978-1580054348
Publisher: Seal Press







"I felt a deep obligation to share the truth about aid with others and to uncover how the 'helping industry' could be reformed", writes researcher, filmmaker, aid critic, and founder and director of Beyond Good Intentions, Tori Hogan in her eye opening and provocative book Beyond Good Intentions: A Journey into the Realities of International Aid. The author describes how as a young intern in Kenya, for Save The Children, she discovered how the aid industry was failing to achieve its goals, and shares her personal journey to reform the abuses and failures of international aid.

Tori Hogan recognizes that not all aid is wasted, and indeed some aid agencies do the right thing and perform good works. The author also points out that while well intentioned, too much international aid to the developing world often results in more harm than good. During her eight year odyssey through Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, Tori Hogan found enormous waste, inappropriate solutions pushed by outsiders, and counterproductive humanitarian activities that made the problems even worse.

The author shares her first hand experiences with the aid community, and reveals the failures of international aid and its often naive but well meaning volunteers and staff. At the same time, Tori Hogan presents a manifesto to others, to meet the challenges facing the people targeted for aid effectively, and to make a positive impact on their lives.



Tori Hogan (photo left) understands that the people, who are the intended recipients of the international assistance, are not always happy with the outcomes. Indeed, it was the story given to her by a young African boy that provided the impetus to the author's journey to reform the entire international aid effort. The harsh truth Tori Hogan learned in that fateful conversation transformed her life and her goals as a humanitarian.

Discovering that aid intentions are not always as they seem, and many being outright harmful to the recipients, Tori Hogan began a complete examination of the international aid process. To find out the real story, the author talked to the people who were the intended beneficiaries of the aid. The author was shocked to learn that aid was not only wasteful, but also given to the classic bureaucratic challenges of waste, entrenched elites, and mission creep. Tori Hogan traveled back to Africa, years after her initial epiphany, and visited Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. In each country, the author's quest was the real truth about international aid.

For me, the power of the book is how Tori Hogan combines an overview of the challenges and problems resulting from international aid programs, with her own personal odyssey to uncover the real story from the recipients. The author shares the unvarnished story through her conversations with the people most affected by the aid efforts. Startling discussions are recounted of the failure of the aid to achieve even the most basic goals, and also how the recipients were actually harmed by the failures.

Along with the analysis of the shortcomings of international aid, Tori Hogan offers concrete recommendations for reforming the system to achieve positive results. The author offers the concept of involving local people in establishing their own goals, empowering the population, rather than maintaining the existing paternalistic programs. The author is both cautious, and optimistic, that tangible improvements can and will be made to really help the people in the developing world.

I highly recommend the groundbreaking and deeply personal book Beyond Good Intentions: A Journey into the Realities of International Aid by Tori Hogan, to anyone involved in international aid programs, public policy making, non-governmental organizations, corporate leadership, and interested citizens who want to make a real difference in the lives of people in the developing world. This book will change forever your perspective on international aid programs, transform your thinking into that of questioning the organizations, and empower change in how aid agencies conduct their operations.

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Propel by Whitney Keyes - Book review

Propel

Five Ways to Amp-Up Your Marketing and Accelerate Business

By: Whitney Keyes

Published: August 22, 2012
Format: Paperback, 224 pages
ISBN-10: 1601632339
ISBN-13: 978-1601632333
Publisher: Career Press








"Where many people get tripped up in their marketing is not in their ability to do it,but in their knowledge about it", writes marketing expert, blogger, and global business strategist Whitney Keyes, in her straight talking and very hands on book Propel: Five Ways to Amp-Up Your Marketing and Accelerate Business. The author describes a strategic approach to marketing that combines the latest social media marketing methods with the timeless techniques of traditional marketing to create a powerful synthesis to expand market shares, enhance loyalty to a company's brands, and increase profits.

Whitney Keyes recognizes that that there are tangible benefits for companies through the utilization of traditional marketing strategies, and bottom line increases that result from implementation of social media techniques. Rather than choose either one marketing system or the other, the author offers a combination of the best concepts from both the old and the new marketing processes. The result is a stronger marketing program that exploits opportunities that would remain hidden from either traditional marketers on the one hand, or from social media marketers on the other. Whitney Keyes presents a comprehensive marketing approach that is also customizable to zero in on the unique aspects of any organization and its brands.



Whitney Keyes (photo left) understands that companies make mistakes in their marketing programs because they are missing the basic knowledge about effective marketing. Despite that lack of information, marketers believe they are doing a good job with their marketing strategy. The author disagrees with the marketing executive self assessment and lists the following five most common marketing mistakes:

* Being impatient
* Overachieving
* Obsessing
* Getting overwhelmed
* Being overconfident

To overcome these five frequent marketing errors, Whitney Keyes shares her five ways to improve a firm's marketing. The five principles are as follows:

* Strategy: Set your course for success
* Story: Connect with the people who matter the most
* Strength: Boost your efforts by extending your reach
* Simplicity: Keep the plan and process straightforward
* Speed: Accelerate and move forward

For me, the power of the book is how Whitney Keyes combines a comprehensive framework for combining traditional and new marketing effectively, with the practical steps and processes to implement that new strategy. The author takes an overall strategic approach to marketing, with an emphasis on a holistic route to success. All too often, the strategic thinking in an organization becomes overwhelmed by the tactics to put the plan into action. What is left is a piecemeal system that repeats the mistakes outlined by the author.

Whitney Keyes avoids that trap by always keeping the marketer aware of the overarching strategy. The tactics are then implemented to put the overall strategy into action. The author adds value to the book by providing a series of thought provoking and probing questions, at the end of each chapter, for the reader to consider for their own organizational strategy. Whitney Keyes also presents a series of case studies that illustrate the principles at work in the real world. The examples provide context and visualization of the concepts, ensuring their overall understanding by thhe reader.

I highly recommend the empowering and very practical book Propel: Five Ways to Amp-Up Your Marketing and Accelerate Business by Whitney Keyes, to any marketing executives, strategists, CEOs, brand managers, and entrepreneurs seeking to take their marketing to the next level, while avoiding the mistakes that have hurt otherwise great brands and companies. This book will create a strategic approach to marketing within any organization, and result in a stronger bottom line.

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Seward: Lincoln's Indispensable Man by Walter Stahr - Book review

Seward: Lincoln's Indispensable Man

By: Walter Stahr

Published: September 19, 2012
Format: Hardcover, 720 pages
ISBN-10: 1439121168
ISBN-13: 978-1439121160
Publisher: Simon & Schuster








"Most Americans know Seward's name and that Alaska was 'Seward's Folly', but they do not know much else about him", writes acclaimed biographer Wlater Stahr, in his brilliant and landmark book Seward: Lincoln's Indispensable Man. The author shares the life, in lively and outstanding detail, of one of the most important and complex figures of his nineteenth century America.

Walter Stahr recognizes the monumental importance of William Seward, to the transformational period of the American Civil War and Reconstruction. One of the most important individuals of the nineteenth century, William Seward served as Governor of New York, a United States Senator, and was considered the front runner for President in 1860. Walter Stahr delves into the powerful impact of William Seward, not only as Abraham Lincoln's Secretary of State, but as a key adviser on foreign affairs, politics, and personnel issues.

The author points out how Seward's contemporaries considered him the most influential person in the Lincoln Cabinet, and as a result he was targeted for assassination, along with President Lincoln, by John Wilkes Booth. William Seward survived the attempt, continued to serve as Secretary of State under President Andrew Johnson, and began the process that established America as a global empire.



Walter Stahr (photo left) understands that the popular impression of William Seward today falls far short of the towering importance of the man in his time. Not only was William Seward influential in politics, but Walter Stahr presents a portrait of a man who was a colorful story teller and raconteur. With his unkempt hair and messy attire, William Seward was an intriguing character who regaled guests, from all walks of life, with his tales. Despite this disarming appearance, William Seward was considered the foremost statesman in the North, prior to the Civil War.

William Seward's political importance continued during the conflagration of the War, and long afterward. An outspoken opponent of slavery before the War, Seward continued his support for the policies of Abraham Lincoln during Reconstruction. Alienating some of the radical Reconstructionists, William Seward continued on a pragmatic course, that the author considers a step toward reconciliation with the South, and a restoration of a restored Union.

For me, the power of the book is how Walter Stahr combines a powerful historical narrative of the political life of William Seward, with an intimate portrait of the man behind the politics and public office. The author brings history to life, creating a complete and balanced picture of a leading figure of his time. Walter Stahr presents the controversy and accomplishments of William Seward with an even hand and lively prose. The author covers Seward's entire political career, but even more intriguingly offers some crucial insights into the private man as well.

William Seward was a larger than life personality during his eventful lifetime, and this biography certainly does justice to this complex and important man. The author draws on numerous sources, including those long neglected by historians. The book includes notes for each chapter to facilitate even more research into the life and times of the fascinating William Seward.

I highly recommend the important and engaging biography Seward: Lincoln's Indispensable Man by William Stahr, to professionals in academia, students of history and politics, and anyone interested in the life of one of the most important and interesting figures of the nineteenth century. This book is a much needed biography of a pivotal individual during one of the most tumultuous and transformational eras of American history.

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Winning Body Language for Sales Professionals by Mark Bowden - Book review

Winning Body Language for Sales Professionals

Control the Conversation and Connect with Your Customer—without Saying a Word

By: Mark Bowden

Published: September 6, 2012
Format: Paperback, 256 pages
ISBN-10: 0071793003
ISBN-13: 978-0071793001
Publisher: McGraw-Hill










"Clients and customers have to trust before they can buy. It comes down to the sales professional to help build the trust and credibility that engages a client or customer", writes author, trainer, keynote speaker and the creator of TRUTHPLANE™, Mark Bowden, in his very hands on and results oriented book Winning Body Language for Sales Professionals: Control the Conversation and Connect with Your Customer—without Saying a Word. The author describes why the way a salesperson delivers their message is even more important than the words being spoken, and shares the the best techniques for establishing trust with clients through non-verbal communication.

Mark Bowden understands that non-verbal communication, in any sales presentation, is at least as important as the spoken words. The author even goes one step farther in offering evidence from the latest findings in neuroscience. The most recent discoveries in brain science provide powerful clues that people are more affected and motivated by non-verbal cues than by words. Mark Bowden points out that how the speaker positions their body, moves their body, and how they speak the words have more effect on the listener than the content of the presentation itself. Through deep processes within the brain, humans determine who to trust, based on the other person's body positioning, movements, facial expression, and voice tone. As a result, Nark Bowden offers advice on how to utilize body language and voice to establish trust with the prospective client.



Mark Bowden (photo left) recognizes the fundamental importance of non-verbal communication as crucial to establishment of trust between the sales representative and the potential customer. The author shares the concept that trust can be created through body language alone, and without any words being spoken by the sales person. Mark Bowden demonstrates how to create good feelings and trust that influence the behavior of the sales prospect.

Mark Bowden shares his GesturePlane™ System for dividing the body into horizontal sections to establish rapport with what he calls predictable feelings, judgements, and the elan. The author also offers his TRUTHPLANE™ for maintaining open and honest communication between the seller and the buyer. Mark Bowden also shares his concept of the PassionPlane™ to maintain high energy levels, and how to avoid what he calls the GrotesquePlane™ of low energy and a loss of interest. By following the GesturePlane™ concept, with gestures made at the appropriate horizontal level, the proper levels of emotion, attitude and energy will be maintained. The author presents evidence that this process will build trust and relationships with clients.

For me, the power of the book is how Mark Bowden combines a complete theoretical framework for utilizing body language effectively, with the practical techniques and exercises to put those guidelines into action. The author presents his proven strategies for improving the important non-verbal aspects of any sales presentation. With the application of the author's specific processes, any sales representative can become much more effective in establishing trust with clients.

To achieve proficiency in these methods, Mark Bowden offers the practices and skills necessary for peak sales performance. The author combines the latest discoveries in neuroscience, about how the brain really functions, with his proven techniques for creating a trusting environment with prospects. The author also adds the often overlooked elements of clothing selection and meeting room environment to augment the individual actions. The techniques are not manipulative but instead reflect the natural responses of the human brain when faced with an unfamiliar person.

I highly recommend the very practical and comprehensive book Winning Body Language for Sales Professionals: Control the Conversation and Connect with Your Customer—without Saying a Word by Mark Bowden to any sales representatives, sales managers and executives, entrepreneurs, and anyone making presentations to others, who are seeking a groundbreaking and readily applicable guide to understanding non-verbal communication. This book will improve the reception given to your presentations, boost your number of closed sales, and build your client list.

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Enough is Enough by Rob Dietz & Dan O'Neill - Book review

Enough Is Enough

Building a Sustainable Economy in a World of Finite Resources

By: Rob Dietz, Dan O'Neill

Published: January 7, 2013
Paperback: 240 pages
ISBN-10: 160994805X
ISBN-13: 978-1609948054
Publisher: Berrett-Koehler Publishers







"The evidence shows that the pursuit of a bigger economy is undermining the life-support systems of the planet and failing to make us better off - a grave situation to be sure. But what makes the situation even more serious is the lack of a viable response", write editor of the Daly News and the former executive director of CASSE (Center for the Advancement of the Steady State Economy), Rob Dietz; and lecturer in ecological economics at the University of Leeds and the chief economist for CASSE, Dan O'Neill, in their revolutionary and thought provoking book Enough Is Enough: Building a Sustainable Economy in a World of Finite Resources.

The authors describe the challenges of how the current ideas and techniques for running the economy are causing long term damage to the environment, the economy, and to society itself, and offer the alternative they call a prosperous and stable steady-state economy.

Rob Dietz (photo left) and Dan O'Neill recognize that there is something very wrong with economies around the world. The authors cite severe economic inequality between countries and within countries, dangers from global climate change, unsustainable national debt levels, and dead zones within the world's oceans as some of the critical challenges facing the world. The authors present evidence that these challenges are only the symptoms of what they pinpoint as the fundamental cause of the problems.

For the authors, the pursuit of never ending economic growth is the principle cause of the social, economic, and environmental issues. In place of the current constant growth economic paradigm, the authors offer another path where the goal changes from more to one of enough.



Dan O'Neill (photo left) and Rob Dietz understand that it will be a challenge to transform people's thoughts and vision from one of getting more to an idea of having enough. The authors share compelling evidence that the goal of never ending growth, in the form of more, is both unsustainable for the environment and a failed plan for the economy.

The authors apply the economic ideas of Herman Daly, who advocated a steady-state economy, where an equitable and sustainable approach replaced the continual growth model that is based on short term profits.

The authors share their vision of a steady-state economy, with a sustainable and equitable future, that incorporates the following principles:

* Widespread recognition that our planet is finite
* Practical policies for achieving a steady-state economy
* The will to act and make the necessary changes

For me, the power of the book is how Rob Dietz and Dan O'Neill combine an effective analysis of the current challenges facing society, the environment, and the economy if the current never ending growth model is continued, with the alternative approach of a sustainable, environmentally conscious steady-state economic model. The authors demonstrate that the current economic paradigm will fail to achieve the desired growth, and only contribute to even more economic, societal, and environmental problems in the longer term.

The authors provide evidence that steady-state model, where the goal of more is replaced by the goal of enough, provides a better economy, greater levels of equality, and a healthier environment. To support their concepts, the book includes numerous charts and graphs that show how the overwhelming challenges can be solved for the benefit of everyone on the planet. Instead of simply presenting an economic program alone, the authors also share a series of steps for individuals and governments to take to make the steady-state economy vision a reality.

I highly recommend the visionary and provocative book Enough Is Enough: Building a Sustainable Economy in a World of Finite Resources by Rob Dietz and Dan O'Neill, to economists, business leaders, government policy makers at all levels, academics, environmentalists, sociologists, and anyone interested in the future of national and global economies, the environment, and society. This book will challenge your current ideas on the economy and sustainability, and you may not agree with the authors, but the book is worth reading for anyone who is seeking solutions to the most crucial problems of today and tomorrow.

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Networking Is Dead: Making Connections That Matter by Melissa G. Wilson & Larry Mohl - Book review

Networking Is Dead

Making Connections That Matter

By: Melissa G. Wilson, Larry Mohl

Published: November 6, 2012
Format: Paperback, 224 pages
ISBN-10: 193785602X
ISBN-13: 978-1937856021
Publisher: BenBella Books









"Networking has gotten such a bad name, especially in this new world of social networking. I prefer to call it what it should be, making connections that matter", write Founder and President of Networlding, Melissa G. Wilson; and Chief Innovation Officer and founding partner of Performance Inspired, Inc., Larry Mohl, in their engaging and idea packed business fable Networking Is Dead: Making Connections That Matter. The authors, through the medium of a business parable format, describe a fresh approach to the traditional concept of networking by building high quality, and deep business relationships based on shared values.

Melissa G. Wilson (photo left) and Larry Mohl understand the value and importance of making connections that go beyond the surface and form deep, long lasting relationships. Through the narrative, the authors share the story of a collection of engaging, yet very typical business people who learn a new philosophy for making connections.

The protagonists replace their ineffective traditional methods of networking, including the most popular online and social media techniques, with the goal of making deep and meaningful connections. The people in the fable discover the power and importance of telling a story, of giving to others first with the goal of offering value, and learning how to make connections between other people through sharing introductions.

Larry Mohl (photo left) and Melissa G. Wilson recognize that the internet in general, and social media in particular, have added new dimensions to the concept of networking. Where the authors depart from that conventional wisdom is through the necessity for establishing meaning and depth to those social media created relationships. For the authors, that transformation in thinking and approach involve going much more deeply in connecting with people who have shared values. Those deeper connections can then be leveraged to make more connections with others, and between other people as well.

The authors present the following ten meaningful connection building lessons through the narrative in the business fable:

* Define your Why
* Create quality over quantity
* Dig below the surface
* Have your authentic story ready to go
* Give first
* Upgrade your network - five levels of exchange
* Learn to make great introductions
* Expand your circle of connections
* Make your progress and commitment visible to others
* Inspire others

For me, the power of the book is how Melissa G. Wilson and Larry Mohl share their revolutionary and deep connection building concepts through a narrative that illustrates the principles in action. The authors present their alternative to traditional networking, based on quality over quantity, through the actions and dialogue of the characters in the business parable. Because the conventional wisdom, of establishing as wide a range of networks as possible, is so ingrained in business thinking, the vehicle of the fable presents the fresh thinking in an engaging and understandable format.

The ten principles of deep, meaningful connections are offered, in ten separate chapters, that demonstrate how and why quality over quantity and giving to others, form a stronger foundation for building lasting relationships. At the end of each chapter, the authors summarize the key lessons and take away tips for each of the ten ideas. As a result, the book is effective whether read as a business parable, or as a series of techniques for establishing long term connections.

I highly recommend the entertaining and connection building book Networking Is Dead: Making Connections That Matter by Melissa G. Wilson and Larry Mohl, to any business leader, executive, manager, sales or media representative, or entrepreneur seeking an effective and proven method for transforming old fashioned networking into more effective and quality oriented connections. With this new set of principles in action, there is no need to revert to outmoded and less effective networking methods again.

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A Natural History of the Piano by Stuart Isacoff - Book review

A Natural History of the Piano

The Instrument, the Music, the Musicians - from Mozart to Modern Jazz and Everything in Between

By: Stuart Isacoff

Published: November 20, 2012
Format: Paperback, 384 pages
ISBN-10: 0307279332
ISBN-13: 978-0307279330
Publisher: Vintage









"But the piano is more than just an instrument; in the words of Oliver Wendall Holmes, it is a 'wondrous box',filled as much with hopes, yearnings, and disappointments as with strings and hammers and felt', writes pianist, composer, critic, and educator at the SUNY at Purchase,Stuart Isacoff, in his engaging and highly informative book A Natural History of the Piano: The Instrument, the Music, the Musicians - from Mozart to Modern Jazz and Everything in Between. The author describes the fascinating story of the rise in importance of the piano, from its origins in the Medici court, along its astounding journey through classical and jazz music composition and performance.

Stuart Isacoff recognizes the overall preeminence of the piano as more than a mere musical instrument, but also as an expression of human culture and creativity. The author guides the reader along a musical voyage that spans several centuries of piano composition and musical expression. Stuart Isacoff shares the beauty and grandeur of the piano, its music, and the pianists who play the piano's eighty-eight keys.

From Mozart to Beethoven and Debussy to Liszt, the author presents the piano as integral to the sounds, textures, and history of classical music. Offering the performances and compositions of jazz pianists from Peterson to Ellington, Stuart Isacoff demonstrates the versatility of the piano as musical instrument and outlet for cultural expression.

Stuart Isacoff (photo left) understands that a piano can capture the spirit of any time and place, as well as an outlet for emotions and creativity. Whether in a concert hall, a home, or a tavern, the piano and its myriad of moods and sounds forms a crucial point of focus and enjoyment. Indeed, the author presents the concept of the near mystical overtones of the piano, and the spell it casts over those who play it, and those who listen to its music. The piano can express the music of any time, any style, and any place as a universal bearer of music and delight.

Stuart Isacoff takes the reader for a magical musical tour of the times and places of the piano, and of those who tinkle its ivories. The book includes the following chapters in the piano's amazing and intricate journey:

* A gathering of traditions
* The piano is born
* The first piano superstar
* Piano fever
* Performers on the road
* The four sounds
* The combustibles
* The alchemists
* The rhythmitizers
* The melodists
* The cultivated and the vernacular
* The Russians re coming
* The Germans and their close relations
* Keys to the world
* On the cutting edge
* Everything that is old is new again

For me, the power of the book is how Stuart Isacoff combines a a detailed and entertaining history to the piano, with a fascinating account of those who play the piano and utilize it as an inspiration to create new music. The author creates a history that is part musical and part social, as he sheds light on how musical tastes in the world of classical and jazz based piano have both evolved and been reborn. The story of the piano is one of passion for music, creative expression, and the central importance of the piano itself in musical history.

Stuart Isacoff enhances the delightful text and narrative with numerous photographs and artwork pieces to illustrate the great composers and performers who created their own special joy of music. The book is fully annotated with end notes for each chapter along with a brief, but useful biographical appendix. The book also contains additional contributions by great musicians and composers, of today and through history, that enrich the text and provide depth and background to each chapter.

I highly recommend the enjoyable and informative book A Natural History of the Piano: The Instrument, the Music, the Musicians - from Mozart to Modern Jazz and Everything in Between by Stuart Isacoff, to anyone who shares the joy of the piano as a composer, educator, performer, historian, or a listener seeking a clear and concise history of the piano, its music, and some of its greatest jazz and classical performers. This book will both entertain and enlighten you, while increasing your enjoyment of the wonderful piano.

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Rooftop Revolution by Danny Kennedy - Book review

Rooftop Revolution

How Solar Power Can Save Our Economy - and our planet - from Dirty Energy

By: Danny Kennedy

Published: September 3, 2012
Format: Paperback, 192 pages
ISBN-10: 1609946642
ISBN-13: 978-1609946647
Publisher: Berrett-Koehler Publishers










"Right now it;s important that everyone know the truth about solar's power and how we should be making energy. Our future - our safety, our prosperity, and our environment - depends on the success of the Rooftop Revolution" writes solar power advocate, award winning innovator, and founder and president of Sungevity, Inc. Danny Kennedy in his eye opening and societal action oriented book Rooftop Revolution: How Solar Power Can Save Our Economy - and our planet - from Dirty Energy. The author describes how now is the time to move away from energy generated by fossil fuels and embrace the ever increasing importance of solar generated energy.

Danny Kennedy recognizes that the solar generated electricity is increasing at an exponential rate. At the same time, the author points out the employment in the solar industry has doubled since 2009. Danny Kennedy writes that he expects that employment growth trend to continue to soar both in the near and longer term. On the other hand,m the author provides evidence the amount of electricity produced by coal has declined to levels of the 1930s. Along with this decline in coal powered electricity has been an accompanying loss of employment within the coal power industry.

Danny Kennedy presents evidence that the information about solar energy, as shared by its opponents, is false In place of fossil fuel generated electricity, the author presents solar power as a viable and clean substitute for fossil based energy in general, and coal generated electricity in particular.

Danny Kennedy (photo left) understands the critical importance of electricity to modern society. The author also recognizes that the production and provision of electricity is very big business. As a result, Danny Kennedy offers alternative information to that provided by the entrenched interests in the fossil fuel and nuclear based energy business. The author refutes the standard arguments made against solar generated electricity by those who support coal, oil and gas, and the nuclear industries.

Along with sharing effective rebuttals to the usual sources, Danny Kennedy goes farther in demonstrating that solar energy creates more jobs, boosts the economy, and provides a clean and sustainable energy source. The author makes the compelling case for solar generated electricity in the following chapters:

* Sunny side up
* Empires of the Sun: Dirty energy's petty politics
* Role models for the rooftop revolution
* Take a walk on the sunny side
* Hot jobs
* Energized

For me, the power of the book is how Danny Kennedy provides a powerful economic, energy consumption, and environmental sustainability case for solar energy, combined with the practical steps for making the solar vision a reality. The author refers to the transformation from fossil fuel based energy to solar power a rooftop revolution. The changes created by the now ongoing transition, from the declining fossil fuel based industry to one powered by the Sun, are indeed revolutionary. That revolution is not only technological and economic, but also represents a complete sea change in thinking on the part of the population.

For entrepreneurs, the book offers some very good news. Solar power generation saves money for businesses of all sizes, but also provides opportunities for technological innovation and and new venture start ups. The author enhances his case for solar energy through careful research, the results of which are presented in the book. Danny Kennedy also shares anecdotes and case studies of successful solar energy projects and companies, and how solar has proven effective in replacing traditional energy sources in new and exciting ways.

I highly recommend the visionary and transformational book Rooftop Revolution: How Solar Power Can Save Our Economy - and our planet - from Dirty Energy by Danny Kennedy, to any entrepreneurs, homeowners, home designers, architects and engineers, electrical utilities, environmental groups, and public policy makers seeking a clear and concise guide to the importance and benefits of solar generated electricity to individuals, businesses, the economy, and the environment. This book will change the way you think and approach the whole question of solar energy and how it is already replacing fossil fuel generated electricity.

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The Laws of Subtraction by Matthew E. May - Book review

The Laws of Subtraction

6 Simple Rules for Winning in the Age of Excess Everything

By: Matthew E. May

Published: October 3, 2012
Format: Hardcover, 240 pages
ISBN-10: 0071795618
ISBN-13: 978-0071795616
Publisher: McGraw-Hill












"This is the art of subtraction: when you remove just he right thing in just the right way, something good usually happens", writes an innovation catalyst and the founder of EDIT Innovation, Matthew E. May, in his brilliant and transformational book The Laws of Subtraction: 6 Simple Rules for Winning in the Age of Excess Everything. The author describes how, in an age of excess and ever increasing complexity, the solution for cutting through the clutter is the counter-intuitive principle of subtraction.

Matthew May recognizes that the very idea of subtraction doesn't come naturally to people. The natural impulse for almost everyone is to add more and accumulate. The author offers the idea of subtraction as a form of thinking differently from the general population. Indeed, a person's brain, according to Matthew May, will undergo a complete rewiring as it incorporates and internalizes the principle of subtraction. Instead of the usual framing of the question as doing more with less, the author presents an alternative viewpoint of doing better with less. For Matthew May, doing better has no limitations.

Matthew E. May (photo left) understands that subtraction creates more engaging experience for both ourselves, and for others as well. The author emphasizes the value of the experience itself, as the process of creation taps into a person's emotions and becomes meaningful through participation in that inward journey. For the author, the experience transforms the individual through the act of discovering what is obvious for removal, and what is meaningful to add in its place.

The author distilled, from a wide range of disciplines, cultures, and thinkers, what he refers to as six laws of subtraction. Those six laws are as follows:

* What isn't there can often trump what is
* The simplest rules create the most effective experience
* Limiting information engages the imagination
* Creativity thrives under intelligent constraints
* Break is the important part of Breakthrough
* Doing something isn't always better than doing nothing.

For me, the power of the book is how Matthew E. May combines a compelling theoretical case for subtraction, with the practical skills and ideas for incorporating the principle into any innovation process. The six laws of subtraction form the focus of the book, offering insights into the principles of simplification. Matthew May demonstrates how to discover where minimizing excess is needed, and also how to determine the correct time to remove it.

Matthew May provides additional perspectives on subtraction as well, through the inclusion of guest contributions on each of the six laws. These additional viewpoints enhance and serve to further illustrate the empowerment and creative skills unleashed d by refocusing from constant addition and excess to removal and simplification. The author presents a strong case for improving the innovation process to increase overall competitiveness through the principle knowing what to remove and when to do it. This alternative approach, that replaces the emphasis on addition, with a process designed to remove the excess, presents a clear advantage to anyone who incorporates the six laws into their strategic an tactical planning.

I highly recommend the groundbreaking and thought process altering book The Laws of Subtraction: 6 Simple Rules for Winning in the Age of Excess Everything by Matthew E. May, to anyone seeking a fresh way of thinking and behaving that develops a unique organization and culture built around truly innovating in a different way. This book will change your ideas from those of the herd and their conventional wisdom, to one where the guiding principle becomes one of less is better.

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The Slaves' Gamble: Choosing Sides in the War of 1812 by Gene Allen Smith - Book review

The Slaves' Gamble

Choosing Sides in the War of 1812

By: Gene Allen Smith, Ph.D.

Published: January 22, 2013
Format: Hardcover, 272 pages
ISBN-10: 0230342086
ISBN-13: 978-0230342088
Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan










"This book examines African American combatants during the War of 1812 as a way to understand the evolution of American racial relations during the early nineteenth century", writes professor of History and the director of the Center for Texas Studies at Texas Christian University and curator of History at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, Gene Allen Smith, Ph.D., in his fascinating and original research based book The Slaves' Gamble: Choosing Sides in the War of 1812. The author describes how the War of 1812 brought the improving race relations and the declining institution of slavery to a halt, and changed the course of nineteenth century American history.

Gene Allen Smith recognizes that the far flung and multinational War of !812 offered tremendous opportunities for African Americans to improve their circumstances through the army, navy, freedman status, and by escape from bondage to territories outside of American jurisdiction. For the nations involved in the war, the presence of free black and slave troops was considered a viable option to increase the size of naval and land forces.

Slaves used the proximity to British troops as an opportunity to escape to freedom. That flight from bondage caused slave owners to seek more strict and tighter control. The escapes convinced slaveholders that slaves could not be trusted to not escape when under arms. The result was the view that black troops did not provide a reliable and viable military option.

Gene Allen Smith (photo left) presents evidence that the War of 1812 changed the nature of slavery. Prior to the war, slavery was not a strong institution, and was even facing decline or extinction in some Southern states. The war changed all that forever. New lands were opened for cotton production by the war, and the well known Deep South cotton based plantation system was established firmly. At the same time, many African Americans fled to Bermuda, Trinidad, or Canada. The War of 1812 empowered some African Americans while rooting others more deeply into the bonds of slavery.

Gene Allen Smith examines the African American experience in the War of 1812, with black troops and sailors fighting for all of the belligerent nations. The African American participation in the war is considered as follows:

* Black soldiers in North America
* Fighting in the North 1807-13, and on the Seas
* The Florida Patriot War of 1812
* Terror on the Chesapeake, 1813-14
* Washington, Baltimore, and other targets
* War along the Southern Coasts, 1814
* Different places, same results, 1815 and after

For me, the power of the book is how Gene Allen Smith brings alive the African American experience during the War of 1812, while providing a critical background of the larger aspects of the war, and the resulting course of American history. The author offers original source materials that provide detailed accounts of individual African Americans, and their activities during the war, and of its impact on their lives. Combined with his excellent analysis of the events of the war, and how it altered the overall course of nineteenth century American history is superb. Not only was the black population of America affected in drastic ways, the attitudes and opinions of white American were transformed as well.

Gene Allen Smith presents the War of 1812 as a catalyst for decisive change in the lives of African Americans. Often overlooked in its historical influence, the author makes a strong case that the war formed the crucible of nineteenth century America. The various outcomes of the War of !812, including the birth of the Deep South plantation economy, based on slavery, led America on an inexorable path to the American Civil War. The author enhances the text with maps and period illustrations of the events, people, and military history of the war. As expected from a highly respected member of the academic community, the book contains copious end notes for each chapter to facilitate further research.

I highly recommend the insightful and enlightening book The Slaves' Gamble: Choosing Sides in the War of 1812 by Gene Allen Smith, Ph.D., to any students of African American, military or societal history who are seeking an authoritative and engaging examination of the important role played by African Americans in the War of 1812. This book will awaken your interest in that almost forgotten conflict, African American history, and of the nineteenth century in general.

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The E-Factor: Entrepreneurship in the Social Media Age by Adrie Reinders & Marion Freijsen - Book review

The E-Factor

Entrepreneurship in the Social Media Age

By: Adrie Reinders, Marion Freijsen

Published: November 6, 2012
Format: Hardcover, 208 pages
ISBN-10: 1935618180
ISBN-13: 978-1935618188
Publisher: BenBella Books











"Today;s entrepreneurial community serves as an energizing hub that brings together results already achieved and opportunities yet to come", write co-founder and CEO of EFactor Corp,. Adrie Reinders; and co-founder and COO of EFactor Corp., Marion Freijsen, in their real world experience and wisdom filled book The E-Factor: Entrepreneurship in the Social Media Age. The authors describe how the internet and social media have transformed the entrepreneurial marketplace, and share the concept of how entrepreneurs are leading the new business revolution.

Adrie Reinders (photo left) and Marion Freijsen recognize that entrepreneurs and the very nature of entrepreneurship has changed with the emergence of the digital age. In the past, entrepreneurs often worked in isolation, while the business start-up leaders of today work as collaborative effort in a global environment. The authors point out that entrepreneurs seek to discover fresh solutions to existing problems, and to overcome the inertia of the status quo. As a result, entrepreneurs are the vanguard on the forefront of the online social media revolution.

The authors provide evidence that these born entrepreneurs to be found anywhere, in all walks of life, and are younger than ever before. This new breed of business creator is willing and able to take full advantage of technology in the globalized economy.

Marion Freijsen (photo left) and Adrie Reinders understand that while this new wave of younger entrepreneurs possess proven abilities to build relationships and collaborate online, they often face challenges with meeting others in face to face business settings. The authors also point out that while many entrepreneurs achieved success without formal or advanced education, today's business people no longer face that dichotomy, as universities have adapted to the new world of entrepreneurship.

The authors present an excellent overview that bridges the gaps between traditional business practices and the modern technological world;as well as filling the gaps between existing life experience and successful business skills.

The authors share their wisdom and experience in the following areas:

* What today's entrepreneur looks like
* Obstacles to overcome
* New tools of engagement: The world of social media
* New Connections: Virtual networking
* New working environments: Collaboration on a cloud
* New Mindset: Entrepreneurial philosophy 2.0
* A new vision for today's entrepreneurs

For me, the power of the book is how Adrie Reinders and Marion Freijsen combine a powerful and proven theoretical framework, with the practical and real world tested strategies and tactics to transform entrepreneurial dreams into reality. The authors present a comprehensive overview of the new entrepreneurial landscape, and offer guidance to the new breed of entrepreneur in overcoming the challenges presented by the global economy. The authors share their own proven practices for obtaining funding, learning essential new skills, and for networking effectively both online and offline.

The entrepreneurs enhance their guidance with the inclusion of an entire section outlining the mistakes and pitfalls that caused entrepreneurs to fail in their ventures. The authors share the lessons necessary to avoid or overcome these frequent mistakes. The book also contains a complete section on entrepreneurial successes. The authors present the stories of these achievers and how they made connections, negotiated effectively, and marketed their products and services in a social media based marketplace. The authors also provide a fresh vision for entrepreneurs that both enlightens and inspires new business start-ups.

I highly recommend the clear and concise book The E-Factor: Entrepreneurship in the Social Media Age by Adrie Reinders and Marion Freijsen, to any would be or current entrepreneurs seeking real world tested strategies for achieving success in their businesses and start-up ventures. This book will transform any entrepreneur into a new and exciting business success story.

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Market Sense and Nonsense by Jack D. Schwager - Book review

Market Sense and Nonsense

How the Markets Really Work (and How They Don't)

By: Jack D. Schwager

Published: November 6, 2012
Format: Hardcover, 343 pages
ISBN-10: 1118494563
ISBN-13: 978-1118494561
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.











"The simple fact is that many widely held investment models and assumptions are simply wrong - that is, if we insist they work in the real world", writes recognized industry expert in futures and hedge funds, and co-portfolio manager for the ADM Investor Services Diversified Strategies Fund, Jack D. Schwager, in his eye opening and provocative book Market Sense and Nonsense: How the Markets Really Work (and How They Don't). The author describes the many myths, misconceptions, and mistaken assumptions that permeate conventional wisdom and accepted truths about investment, including the mistaken assumptions held by brokers, analysts, and investors.

Jack D. Achwager recognizes that there are incorrect and money losing beliefs, often mistaken as truths, that are shared by investors and their advisers. The author offers statistical and empirical evidence, in the form of real world data, that demonstrates how conventional wisdom very often fails the reality test. Investors all too often bring inaccurate and fallacious beliefs to their investment portfolios; usually with money losing results. Investment professionals, writes the author, often rely on insufficient and inappropriate data, flawed mathematical models, and mistaken and unfounded investment strategies.

Jack D. Schwager (photo left) understands that investors follow the advice of personal investment professionals and widely listened to media and newsletter experts. As a result,the author examined their track record for empirical evidence of their successes and failures. The author takes a clear eyed view of the recommendations of the experts, the most popular market theories, challenges posed by looking at past performance.

The author presents a wide ranging analysis of the markets, investment strategies, and market theory through a statistical and data based approach. Among the areas covered in this all encompassing study are:

* Expert advice
* The deficient market hypothesis
* The tyranny of past returns
* The mismeasurement of risk
* Why volatility is not just about risk
* Track record pitfalls
* Sense and nonsense about pro forma statistics
* How to evaluate past performance
* Correlation: Fact and fallacies

For me, the power of the book is how Jack D. Schwager combines a strong theoretical framework for examining the conventional wisdom of investing, with a strong statistics, graphics, and data based analysis of those widespread beliefs. The author poses and answers real world based questions about the assumptions made by investors, analysts, investment professionals, and well known experts. Jack Schwager puts each of their theories and ideas to the test, and makes many insightful discoveries.

First and foremost, the author dispenses with the outdated and inaccurate rational market hypothesis. He proves that concept to be fallacious and not based in reality. Jack Schwager presents a comprehensive overview and analysis of hedge funds, what they are, how they work, and both the risks and rewards associated with them. A really valuable section, within each of the book's chapters, is a brief but concise assessment of a particular market misconception. Overall, the author provides a powerful overview and analysis of the markets, investment, and how markets both work and fail in the real world of investments.

I highly recommend the comprehensive and data based book Market Sense and Nonsense: How the Markets Really Work (and How They Don't) by Jack D. Schwager, to anyone who is currently or considering making investments, investment advisers and professionals, and members of the media who are seeking a complete and concise guide to the realities of investment that cuts through the clutter and presents real world facts. This book will change forever the way you view the markets, your investments, hedge funds, and the advice offered by investment professionals and experts.

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