The Ultimate Book of Business Gurus: 110 Thinkers Who Really Made a Difference (Ultimate Business Series)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Follow that star - the key thoughts of the key thinkers
The Ultimate Book of Business Gurus: 110 Thinkers Who Really Made a Difference (Ultimate Business Series)
Stuart Crainer
Manufacturer: American Management Association
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

GeneralGeneral | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0814404480

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Follow that star - the key thoughts of the key thinkers.......2000-01-02

Follow that star

The ultimate business guru book, by Stuart Crainer

Management came of age in 1954, with super guru Peter Drucker's book, `the practice of management'. Since then it has made up for lost time, and as Stuart Crainer writes, we have all become managers, whether we manage hospitals, schools, funeral parlours, farms or football teams. Management has become "the art and science of our times, and management thinkers have become its high priests, the guru's".

Despite this, there is still no one ultimate truth. Theories mushroom, each one promising more than its predecessor. The growth is fed by aspirant managers "seeking recipes for success and ideas that can distinguish them from the crowd." Many managers occupy their time "inflicting ill-advised ideas on their organisation."

Yet most organisations are being run the way they were when Drucker began to study them. "We have a lot of new tools" says Drucker", but not very many ideas." The resulting cynicism, we learn, has made Dilbert the best selling business book of all time. As, Dilbert himself puts it, "re-engineering was invented by Dr Jonas Salk as a cure for Quality Programmes".

This is not to write off the guru mega-industry. Nor can it relieve us of the pressure to keep abreast of the latest fashion. As Crainer points out in his introduction, "if your son or daughter discovers you have not heard of the latest pop sensation, they are incredulous. ... Managers behave similarly when they discover a colleague, who knows nothing of the latest addition to the management vocabulary." The only thing worse that slavishly following management theory, is ignoring it completely.

In his ultimate business Guru book, Crainer summarises one hundred (fifty in my soft back edition) of the most significant contributors to the management literature. As befitting a young discipline, he has spread his net appropriately wide.

Thus we find academics such as Michael Porter, Philip Kotler, Edgar Schein and Douglas McGregor whose theories are studied in business school. We find executives such as Henry Ford, Alfred Sloan, Harold Geneen, and Thomas Watson Junior who, through practice and theory, put their stamp firmly onto the corporate world. And we find the consultants Marvin Bower, Tom Peters, Bruce Henderson and James Champy, who produce "the best ideas", while in the corporate equivalent of a research laboratory.

Also appropriate is the wide spectrum of belief. Arch conservatives such as Frederick Taylor and Igor Ansoff are included, along with the liberal left such as Peter Senge, and Frons Trompenaars. We find Charles Handy "who has an unerring tendency to state the obvious", but also with Richard Pascale, who tackles the tension of real life contradictions, head on.

Each guru is introduced with a quote, their breakthrough ideas in key words and their most important book. This is followed by three to five pages discussing their contribution and putting it into the context of current thinking. Crainer presents each guru with an appropriate mix of sympathy and scepticism.

Crainer has interviewed and worked with many of the worlds top business thinkers, and this is evident in his work. He presents enough to enable the reader to hold his own, then shows us where look should we want to delve deeper.

Dilbert, the one great thinker not included, said: "everything I've learnt in my entire life can be boiled down to a dozen bullet points, several of which I have already forgotten". This book presents the dozen bullet points of the other 100 thinkers who 'made management'. Some of these points are indeed worth remembering.

Adversarial Legalism: The American Way of Law
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    Adversarial Legalism: The American Way of Law
    Robert A. Kagan
    Manufacturer: Harvard University Press
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover

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    2. The Civil Law Tradition, 3rd Edition: An Introduction to the Legal Systems of Europe and Latin America The Civil Law Tradition, 3rd Edition: An Introduction to the Legal Systems of Europe and Latin America
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    ASIN: 0674006216

    Book Description

    American methods of policy implementation and dispute resolution are more adversarial and legalistic when compared with the systems of other economically advanced countries. Americans more often rely on legal threats and lawsuits. American laws are generally more complicated and prescriptive, adjudication more costly, and penalties more severe. In a thoughtful and cogently argued book, Robert Kagan examines the origins and consequences of this system of "adversarial legalism."

    Kagan describes the roots of adversarial legalism and the deep connections it has with American political institutions and values. He investigates its social costs as well as the extent to which lawyers perpetuate it. Ranging widely across many legal fields, including criminal law, environmental regulations, tort law, and social insurance programs, he provides comparisons with the legal and regulatory systems of western Europe, Canada, and Japan that point to possible alternatives to the American methods.

    Kagan notes that while adversarial legalism has many virtues, its costs and unpredictability often alienate citizens from the law and frustrate the quest for justice. This insightful study deepens our understanding of law and its relationship to politics in America and raises valuable questions about the future of the American legal system.

    Trying to have it both ways: Local discretion, central control, and adversarial legalism in American environmental regulation (Working paper)
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      Trying to have it both ways: Local discretion, central control, and adversarial legalism in American environmental regulation (Working paper)
      Robert A Kagan
      Manufacturer: Institute of Governmental Studies, University of California at Berkeley
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Unknown Binding

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      ASIN: B0006QZQYS

      Manufacturing Ideology: Scientific Management in Twentieth-Century Japan.
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        Manufacturing Ideology: Scientific Management in Twentieth-Century Japan.
        William M. Tsutsui
        Manufacturer: Princeton University Press
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Paperback

        Company ProfilesCompany Profiles | Biography & History | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
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        ASIN: 0691074569

        Book Description

        Japanese industry is the envy of the world for its efficient and humane management practices. Yet, as William Tsutsui argues, the origins and implications of "Japanese-style management" are poorly understood. Contrary to widespread belief, Japan's acclaimed strategies are not particularly novel or even especially Japanese.

        Tsutsui traces the roots of these practices to Scientific Management, or Taylorism, an American concept that arrived in Japan at the turn of the century. During subsequent decades, this imported model was embraced -- and ultimately transformed -- in Japan's industrial workshops. Imitation gave rise to innovation as Japanese managers sought a "revised" Taylorism that combined mechanistic efficiency with respect for the humanity of labor.

        Tsutsui's groundbreaking study charts Taylorism's Japanese incarnation, from the "efficiency movement" of the 1920s, through Depression-era "rationalization" and wartime mobilization, up to postwar "productivity" drives and quality-control campaigns. Taylorism became more than a management tool; its spread beyond the factory was a potent intellectual template in debates over economic growth, social policy, and political authority in modern Japan.

        Tsutsui's historical and comparative perspectives reveal the centrality of Japanese Taylorism to ongoing discussions of Japan's government-industry relations and the evolution of Fordist mass production. He compels us to rethink what implications Japanese-style management has for Western industries, as well as the future of Japan itself.

        Download Description

        Japanese industry is the envy of the world for its efficient and humane management practices. Yet, as William Tsutsui argues, the origins and implications of "Japanese-style management" are poorly understood. Contrary to widespread belief, Japan's acclaimed strategies are not particularly novel or even especially Japanese. Tsutsui traces the roots of these practices to Scientific Management, or Taylorism, an American concept that arrived in Japan at the turn of the century. During subsequent decades, this imported model was embraced--and ultimately transformed--in Japan's industrial workshops. Imitation gave rise to innovation as Japanese managers sought a "revised" Taylorism that combined mechanistic efficiency with respect for the humanity of labor. Tsutsui's groundbreaking study charts Taylorism's Japanese incarnation, from the "efficiency movement" of the 1920s, through Depression-era "rationalization" and wartime mobilization, up to postwar "productivity" drives and quality-control campaigns. Taylorism became more than a management tool; its spread beyond the factory was a potent intellectual template in debates over economic growth, social policy, and political authority in modern Japan. Tsutsui's historical and comparative perspectives reveal the centrality of Japanese Taylorism to ongoing discussions of Japan's government-industry relations and the evolution of Fordist mass production. He compels us to rethink what implications Japanese-style management has for Western industries, as well as the future of Japan itself.

        Why We Eat What We Eat: How Columbus Changed the Way the World Eats
        Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
        • Rationalizes Genocide Because of New World Food "Discoveries"
        • Cuisine for the Mind
        • Food History Detective
        • Much food for thought
        • very readable, entertaining and authoritative
        Why We Eat What We Eat: How Columbus Changed the Way the World Eats
        Raymond Sokolov
        Manufacturer: Touchstone
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Paperback

        GeneralGeneral | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
        Similar Items:
        1. Food in History Food in History
        2. We Are What We Eat: Ethnic Food and the Making of Americans We Are What We Eat: Ethnic Food and the Making of Americans
        3. America's First Cuisines America's First Cuisines
        4. Chilies to Chocolate: Food the Americas Gave the World Chilies to Chocolate: Food the Americas Gave the World
        5. Ethnic Cuisine: How to Create the Authentic Flavors of Over 30 International Cuisines Ethnic Cuisine: How to Create the Authentic Flavors of Over 30 International Cuisines

        ASIN: 0671797913

        Customer Reviews:

        1 out of 5 stars Rationalizes Genocide Because of New World Food "Discoveries".......2007-09-27

        There is nothing about cuisine in this book that has not already been written about before in other publications. The author re-hashes New World foods, which already are widely known. For over 500 years it was common knowledge that maize, manioc, tomatoes, potatoes and corn were "Discoverd" by Columbus. The author of this book acts as though he is the first person to ever realize this. Everything in the book is old news - and I don't think it is worth the price of the book - even used, to purchase information that is already widely disseminated for the last 500 years.

        I am uncomfortable with the authors preface introduction to this book which blithely glides over the genocide, horrific oppression of indigenious peoples - the author rationalizes it and justifies it because "Columbus is responsible for discovering all these wonderful New World foods". The author posits that the genocide against indigenous people of the Americas was justified, because the diet of Western culture was improved. I don't care for the authors smug and self congratulatory tone which rationalizes and justifies genocide against indigenous people all so he can enjoy a wider selection of foods and cuisine.

        In the preface introduction, the author makes racist statetments about Muslims in Spain - alleging they are "notorious Anti-Semites." It is a historical fact that in medieval Muslim Spain, the Moors made a point of practicing religious tolerance and Christans AND Jews were given freedom of religion during the Moors rule of Spain. The author is clearly racist agains Muslims and historically innacurate - you can confirm my statement that Muslims in Moorish Spain practiced considerable religious tolerance both towards Christains and Muslims for the several hundred years the Muslims ruled Spain. Check this out in any history book or Wikkipedia.
        Moors did not destroy synagogues in Muslim Spain - it was the Vatican, Catholic Church that created the Spanish Inquistion - in fact, the Vatican Catholic Church instigated horrendous persecution against BOTH Muslims and Jews. At that point in time, around 1492 - there was actually quite a bit of solidarity and feelings of alliance between Muslims and Jews who were BOTH expelled from Spain by the Catholic Church!

        How the author managed to ignore this historical fact and publish rubbish against Muslims is beyond my comprehension. The author plays fast and loose with historical facts.

        Anyone with a high school education and basic knowledge of history understands that anti-semitism in Spain began with the Fall of the Caliphate of Alhambra in 1492. When the Moors/Muslims lost rule of Spain, the Catholic Church in collusion with the crypto-facist Spanish Royal Crown began the anti-semetic diaspora which enforced an edict expelling Muslims and Jews from Catholic Spain.

        And just for the record - I was raised Catholic so please don't think I am trying to "bash" the Vatican - my sole intent is purely to set the record straight and post historical accuracy which documents the author of this book lies and fudges about historical facts.

        There are dozens of other books which all wrote about the cuisine of the New World and all the new foods which resulted in the improvement of Europeans diet. This book just re-hashes information already previously published in a plethora of books over the last 500 years. I wouldn't waste your money on this book. You can read the introduction online on the Amazon site and you can see for yourself the racist tone of the author that justifies genocide against indiegenous people and the racist remark the author makes against Moslems.

        If you want to read truly fantastic book about cuisine - please read Michael Pollans book "The Omnivores Dilmena" it is an incredible book and much better written than this book. I wanted to end my review with something POSITIVE and a constructive recommendation for "foodies" and folks who are interested in the history of cuisine.

        5 out of 5 stars Cuisine for the Mind.......2003-09-23

        One cannot help but be impressed by the prodigious research that preceeded this book. As in his other works, the author travels at a steady pace, casually informing and experiencing and reporting as he goes.

        The premise offered here is quite revolutionary: Namely, that it was Spain, through its colonization in the New World and particularly Mexico, initiated a culinary melting pot that has been bubbling ever faster since Columbus's voyages. At first, the idea sounds preposterous but the evidence is overwhelming. He shows that many "African" foods were orginially New World foods, that the chili we associate with Thai, Indian and Korean cooking had its origins in colonial Mexico. The latter also provided chocolate, corn, the tomato, various fruits and another colony (Peru) gave us the potato.

        He goes on to demonstrate that French, Italian, Spanish, German and the other national European cuisines are rather recent inventions. The tomato plays an exceptionally large role in the world of food and this despite the tirades and "scientific" arguments against it well into the 19th century. Spanish food affected South America which affected Africa. Some foods, paprika for example, traveled a circuitous route - from Brazil to Iran to the Arab lands to Europe. Thus, the underbelly of Europe - Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia - to this day use the stuff in huge amounts.

        Final chapters covered "American" food, what the term really meant and what our future portends. Especially endearing were the tales of lonely innovators, scientists, industrialists and plain folk who - through sheer ingenuity and curiousity - added to the pleasure of mankind.

        5 out of 5 stars Food History Detective.......2003-09-06

        Sokolov does a splenid job of tracking down the world cuisines and how they came to be what they are today.

        The event that backed most of today's eating habits was the world exploration and development by the Portuguese and Spaniards. From Mexico to the Americas, from South America to Mexico and the Caribbean, they served as the carriers of exotic foodstuffs to the far corners of the earth and then back again.

        Potato to tomato, chocolate to manioc, the gourmet ingredients are traced out from their roots to adaptation.

        Nouvelle cuisine and american regional cooking are essayed as to their development.

        Great reading to shed light on how Chinese had originally no hot spices to why Italians had no pasta.

        Enlightening and entertaining for the interested reader.

        5 out of 5 stars Much food for thought.......2001-01-16

        It is a shame that this book has been let go out of print. Someone ought to get to Penguin or Dover and ask them to bring it back to availability. The text is fascinating, and, rather like good science fiction, makes you stop and rethink your assumptions about "the way things are." Our assumptions that the food on today's tables and menus has always been much the same are fascinatingly wrong. The authors treats several places in both the "new" and "old" worlds as to the effect of ingredients imported after 1492, and then looks in more detail at several of the seminal products, such as corn and potatoes. Particularly if you like "ethnic" cuisine, you will never look at a recipe or menu in the same way again.

        5 out of 5 stars very readable, entertaining and authoritative.......1998-01-13

        This is a very readable and entertaining history of the revolution in cuisine with the introduction
        of foods from the New World. It includes some marginal political history necessary to
        understand the subject, but is filled with interesting anecdotes. Highly recommended for anyone interested in the evolution of cuisine or just a good read.

        The Management Guide to Understanding Behaviour: The Pocket Manager
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          The Management Guide to Understanding Behaviour: The Pocket Manager
          Kate Keenan
          Manufacturer: Oval Books
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Paperback

          Personal TaxesPersonal Taxes | Taxes | Accounting | Industries & Professions | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
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          ASIN: 1902825837

          Book Description

          A book for people who would like to manage themselves, their time, and their business better, but are too busy to begin.

          Investing With Young Guns: The Next Generation of Investment Superstars
          Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
          • Worthwhile reading - from the subject of the book...
          • Young Guns Comes Out Firing
          Investing With Young Guns: The Next Generation of Investment Superstars
          James Morton
          Manufacturer: Financial Times/Prentice Hall
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Paperback

          GeneralGeneral | Popular Economics | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
          GeneralGeneral | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
          GeneralGeneral | Investing | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
          IntroductionIntroduction | Investing | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
          GeneralGeneral | Personal Finance | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
          ASIN: 0273652648

          Customer Reviews:

          5 out of 5 stars Worthwhile reading - from the subject of the book..........2001-07-21

          How does one write a review of a review? In essence, that's what this is. The book is a survey of sorts - the result of interviews with a dozen fund managers under the age of 34. To make the task interesting, the research for the book was conducted at the very top of the market - the spring of 2000.

          To make the task nearly impossible, the author, James Morton, included me in the list of young portfolio managers he wanted to interview.

          The process was remarkably straightforward. He did a pile of reading - I write a fair amount, got up to speed on what we we're trying to do at MetaMarkets.com, and then hopped on a plane from London to Boston. We spoke for a few hours in the lobby of the Boston Marriot, and I never really thought about it again.

          What James captured is a portrait of youth in a bull market. The bear market had yet to enter the picture and start grinding us all down, inch by inch. The dreams we dreamt were grand. The air was intoxicating. Nothing seemed impossible.

          At times I find the chapter about MetaMarkets.com and my role here hard to read. I wax poetic for half a page about the fabulous innovation engine known as Lucent. Lucent! For Pete's sake! To be fair, I also opine on the virtues of Qualcomm and Home Depot, two companies I continue to believe are long term winners. It's the tone that's striking - the arrogance. Investing is an inherently hubristic endeavour. Whether you are in a bull market or a bear market, active investing is standing on a constant promontory in the middle of a raging sea, screaming at the top of your lungs that you know better than the market. During bear markets, this shouting can take the tone of a plea. In bull markets, it comes across as arrogance. But ultimately, it's the standing out their on the promontory at all that counts.

          In the end, I think it's a book worth reading. It's worth reading to recognize those parts of the New Economy paradigm that are in fact still intact, albeit tested and bruised. We are indeed still citizens of a day trader nation - one that changes tick by tick whether we personally choose to react or not. We are still all venture capitalists to a degree never before experienced in the history of commerce. Companies at the forefront of information technology, pure innovation, and corporate tribalism still drive us forward, even in these hard times.

          Perhaps the lesson is that yes, Virgnia, it is a New Economy. But "New" does not mean "Perfect".

          5 out of 5 stars Young Guns Comes Out Firing.......2001-07-14

          An interesting look at the investment strategies of the new breed of investors operating in the new global economy. Indeed, one of the most valuable assets of this book is that it profiles investors in different parts of the world. Also, it is nice to see a book on finance that recognizes the contributions that women have made in the world of investing.

          Between Enterprise and Ethics: Business and Management in a Bimoral Society
          Average customer rating: Not rated
            Between Enterprise and Ethics: Business and Management in a Bimoral Society
            John Hendry
            Manufacturer: Oxford University Press, USA
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Hardcover

            Policy & Current EventsPolicy & Current Events | Popular Economics | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
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            ASIN: 0199267553

            Book Description

            We live in a 'bimoral' society, in which people govern their lives by two contrasting sets of principles. On the one hand there are the principles associated with traditional morality. Although these allow a modicum of self-interest, their emphasis is on our duties and obligations to others: to treat people honestly and with respect, to treat them fairly and without prejudice, to help and care for them when needed, and ultimately, to put their needs above our own. On the other hand there are the principles associated with the entrepreneurial self-interest. These also impose obligations, but of a much more limited kind. Their emphasis is competitive rather than cooperative: to advance our own interests rather than to meet the needs of others. Both sets of principles have always been present in society but in recent years traditional moral authorities have lost much of their force and the morality of self-interest has acquired a much greater social legitimacy, over a much wider field of behaviour, than ever before. The result of this is that in many situations it is no longer at all apparent which set of principles should take precedence. In this book John Hendry traces the cultural and historical origins of the 'bimoral' society and explores the challenges it poses for the world of business and management. The developments that have led to the 'bimoral' society have also led to new, more flexible forms of organizing, which have released people's entrepreneurial energies and significantly enhanced the creative capacities of business. Working within these organizations, however, is fraught with moral tensions as obligations and self-interest conflict and managers are pulled in all sorts of different directions. Managing them successfully poses major new challenges of leadership, and 'moral' management, as the technical problem-solving that previously characterised managerial work is increasingly accomplished by technology and market mechanisms. The key role of management becomes the political and moral one of determining purposes and priorities, reconciling divergent interests, and nurturing trust in interpersonal relationships. Exploring these tensions and challenges, Hendry identifies new issues for contemporary management and puts recognized issues into context. He also explores the challenges posed for a post-traditional society as it seeks to regulate and govern an increasingly powerful and global business sector.

            The Power to Destroy
            Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
            • Tax Reform means more tax litigation
            • Cancer of Corruption in a Mountain of Malfeasance
            • Unbridled Imagination
            • Horrifying Problem - Worse Prognosis
            • Much painful truth in a book with title off target
            The Power to Destroy
            William H. Nixon , and William V. Roth
            Manufacturer: Atlantic Monthly Pr
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Hardcover

            GeneralGeneral | Taxes | Accounting | Industries & Professions | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
            LegalLegal | Current Events | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
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            ASIN: 0871137488

            Amazon.com

            When Senator William V. Roth Jr., the chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, initiated an oversight investigation of the Internal Revenue Service in 1996, it was the first time in two generations that the agency had been subject to serious review. The proceedings brought to light horror stories of taxpayers subjected to the IRS's unrelenting bureaucracy, stories recounted in the pages of The Power to Destroy. The book also discusses how these hearings led to the passage of the Internal Revenue Service Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998, which "brings greater balance to the relationship between the IRS and the taxpayer--offering tools that taxpayers can use to ensure fairness for themselves and tools the Service can use to better police and protect the integrity of its operations." But, as Senator Roth and his executive assistant admit, this can only be the beginning of continued reform.

            Customer Reviews:

            3 out of 5 stars Tax Reform means more tax litigation.......2004-09-16

            In 13 years, Congress has passed almost 80 tax bills. To understand the impact of this expansive nature of tax regulation lets look at the impact of the "Tax Relief Act of 1997: 285 new sections and 824 amendments. In the early, 20th century the tax code spanned 5.5 million words requiring 17,000 pages.

            Tax Reform does not slow the stream of tax revenues going to the government treasury nor does it reduce the tax burdens. Tax Reform codifies administration practices, management decisions, documenting behavior and conduct, and analyzes the execution and application of the internal revenue law. Congress levies taxes. Congress drives the demand for higher taxes. The reform act oversees the execution of the collection of those taxes. The Reform Act of 1998 provides congressional oversight of the IRS restructure through a new entity, the Internal Revenue Service Oversight Board.

            Accountability to Congress and the President of the United States is done through a new Board of Directors, a Commissioner of Internal Revenue appointed to a few year term, and a National Tax Payer Advocate (Independent from the IRS examination, collections, and appeals functions). The National Tax Payer Advocate eliminates the Chief Inspector and creates a Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and reports directly to the Secretary of Treasury.

            Tax Reform means better use of technology. The 1998 Tax Reform mandated that the IRS must address training, operations, technology culture, and tax payer education. The IRS was to develop a strategic marketing plan for a paperless filing service. Technology can reduce costs by increasing more self-service by the Tax payer. Convenience and accessibility will appeal to the taxpayer. Technology is a fix cost appropriation and should be measured to improve tax payer satisfaction. Convenient access to information is crucial to the taxpayer.

            The Tax Reform does not mean less tax litigation. The reform act claims to shift burden of proof from the taxpayer to the agency. The taxpayer must expense for legal services to fight against injustices. If the tax court rules that the tax payer acted reasonably, tax payers may claim civil damages up to $1 million for the recklessness or intentional wrong doing of the IRS agency. The burden of proof is not decisively shifted from the tax payer to the agency. The taxpayer must still demonstrate and prove recklessness. The agency could argue it was following approved procedures. A federal court would be force to rule on the policies fairiness. The litigation cost would be enormous.

            The reform act of 1998 allows the tax payer the right to recover $100,000 for employee negligence, and increases the amount the IRS reimburses taxpayers who prevail in court.

            The IRS is required to notify a taxpayer within five days that a lien has been filed against his or her property. The taxpayer has 30 days to request a hearing with an agency appeals officer.

            The agency cannot proceed with seizure activity until after the hearing has been held, and a taxpayer who does not like the outcome may take the case to tax court. Tax Reform could mean more tax cases being litigated in tax court.

            No seizure of a dwelling that is the principle residence of the taxpayer is allowed without prior judicial approval.

            4 out of 5 stars Cancer of Corruption in a Mountain of Malfeasance.......2003-09-01

            Roth's book reveals much about the world's most feared, most hated, most powerful, and most corrupt criminal organization. While some of the material is dated, the underlying problems are still with us.

            The book, due to its date of publication, doesn't reveal, for example, the OMB finding that IRS employees stole over 4300 government computers in 2001 nor does it reveal the results of a 2003 investigation that shows when they aren't busy stealing computers, IRS employees are spending over half their Internet time at the office visiting porn and gambling sites. Because of the date of the research, Roth doesn't include references to many news articles about how IRS employees devote themselves to terrorizing American citizens, selling confidential information, breaking laws with impunity, and running scams like the famous Hoyt Fiasco (well-documented online).

            Yet, the book is very useful and important. In it, Roth reveals how individual managers in the IRS are completely unaccountable to any civil authority. He gives case after case of horrendous abuses.

            Roth also reveals the steps taken to reign in some of the abuse, and he explains some things ordinary citizens can do to protect themselves. But he also leaves us with an awareness that the IRS is still too powerful, too unaccountable, and too corrupt.

            The book should be required reading. An update is long overdue.

            1 out of 5 stars Unbridled Imagination.......2002-05-27

            As a later GAO investigation revealed, Senator Roth's 1997 hearings on the IRS were a farce. The witnesses' stories of abuse were exaggerated at best, falsified with the connivance of the Senator and his commitee staff, at worst. His book, ghost written by a staffer, (I didn't know the Senator was literate!) should be listed here under "fiction." Its all bull - pandering to marginal and disaffected losers who wear aluminum foil inside their hats. Thankfully, the good citizens of Delware voted the rascal out in 1999, sending him and his horrible toupee back to the obscurity to which he so deservedly belongs.

            3 out of 5 stars Horrifying Problem - Worse Prognosis.......2001-08-23

            I read this book as an ancillary to my study of government abuses that primarily focused on the abuses of the Department of Justice. What I found out was that the FBI, ATF and other heavily armed law enforcement agencies that violate our rights from time to time are relative wimps compared to the pervasive and unbelievably egregious wrongs committed by the IRS.

            The author of the book is a US Senator that headed a congressional oversight hearing looking into the problems in the IRS from '96 to `99. What he found will make you mad as hell and twice as frustrated. Basically he found out that the IRS has become a law unto itself that has grown into a mean-spirited 800 lb. gorilla that cannot now be controlled under the present form of the law.

            Roth admits that this mess is the fault of the Congress in its shameful lack of oversight. He notes that basically Congress has given the IRS increasingly sweeping powers without accountability to the point now that they can break the law with impunity.

            The book cites many horrifying anecdotes of IRS abuse of citizens' rights and basic human decency all in the name of "making the numbers". The IRS is nothing more than a legalized gang of shakedown artists who use intimidation, fear and nasty mean-spiritedness to squeeze every penny out of the taxpayer that they see as an enemy that must be brought to its knees.

            What I found worse than the realization that the government is basically a criminal organization and that the representatives have allowed it to go on was the fact that they now have limited ability to control or reform the IRS. Like a Frankenstein monster that has broken loose and cannot be controlled, the IRS is now so well equipped with sweeping powers that the courts, Congress and certainly we are helpless to its whim despite so called sweeping IRS reform bills passed by Congress in the last four years.

            So, in effect, the author shows us what a mess he and his political cohorts have made over the last fifty or so years and then admits that there isn't a heck of a lot that can be done other than limit your profile so the IRS doesn't notice you in the first place. He also talks about your "rights" and how you should act politely and professionally while the IRS is sticking it in and breaking it off even though the preceding 2/3rd of the book were about how the IRS basically ignores taxpayers' rights. While practical in a clinical sense this advice bothered me because it reminded me of the advice you'll get from cops sometimes regarding crime in general: "just give them what they want and they might not hurt you".

            Come on! Why the hell aren't these thugs in jail? How can a US Senate committee sit there and hear this kind of testimony, see the figures and get admissions from the IRS itself that this kind of crud is going on and not start slapping on the cuffs? I was really disgusted by this book and it basically sums up what I feel is wrong with our government in general. Forget about "jack-booted thugs" with machine guns kicking down your door in the middle of the night; worry about some bureaucratic piss ant from the IRS with a calculator deciding that you are an easy mark to make his numbers for the month.

            Man, what a mess!

            5 out of 5 stars Much painful truth in a book with title off target.......2001-06-29

            A friend just faxed me the review by Robert Cole III Three Cheers for Robert. As valuable as this book is to read, its title prompts me to state this book has the power to mislead. Robert hits the nail on the head. The Federal Crime Family (IRS) does not legally have the power implied by the title of this book. What logic would there be to giving power to an agency to administer their collection tasks under a law based on self assessment and voluntary compliance? The author paid the price of not getting re-elected after five consecutive terms in the Senate.
            The Antibiotic Paradox: How the Misuse of Antibiotics Destroys Their Curative Powers
            Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
            • Resistance can lead to disease outbreaks
            The Antibiotic Paradox: How the Misuse of Antibiotics Destroys Their Curative Powers
            Stuart B. Levy , and M.D., Stuart B. Levy
            Manufacturer: PERSEUS PUBLISHING
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Paperback

            GeneralGeneral | Personal Health | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
            MicrobiologyMicrobiology | Basic Science | Medicine | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | Pharmacology | Medicine | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | Medicine | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | Pharmacology | Medical | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
            Similar Items:
            1. The Killers Within: The Deadly Rise of Drug-Resistant Bacteria The Killers Within: The Deadly Rise of Drug-Resistant Bacteria
            2. Overkill : Repairing the Damage Caused by Our Unhealthy Obsession with Germs, Antibiotics, and Antibacterial Products Overkill : Repairing the Damage Caused by Our Unhealthy Obsession with Germs, Antibiotics, and Antibacterial Products
            3. The Secret Life of Germs: What They Are, Why We Need Them, and How We Can Protect Ourselves Against Them The Secret Life of Germs: What They Are, Why We Need Them, and How We Can Protect Ourselves Against Them
            4. Revenge of the Microbes: How Bacteria Resistance is Underminig the Antibiotic Miracle Revenge of the Microbes: How Bacteria Resistance is Underminig the Antibiotic Miracle
            5. Killer Germs Killer Germs

            ASIN: 0738204404
            Release Date: 2002-01-08

            Book Description

            Revised and updated with a new introduction by the author, the classic book that warns consumers about the overuse of antibiotics.

            In this totally revised and updated edition of the classic primer on the misuse of antibiotics, Dr. Stuart Levy reveals how our cavalier and naïve attitude about the power of antibiotics can have -and already has had-dire consequences. He explains that we are currently witnessing a massive evolutionary change in bacteria. This build-up of new antibiotic-resistant bacteria in individuals and the environment, mixed with our overzealous use of antibiotic soaps and the unregulated dispensing of antibiotics worldwide, is leading us into a dangerous territory where our "miracle" drugs will no longer help.

            Customer Reviews:

            5 out of 5 stars Resistance can lead to disease outbreaks.......2002-04-12

            The Antibiotic Paradox appears in a newly revised second edition to update information on the misuse of antibiotics in general and Cipro in particular, linking new mutations of bacterial resistance to the overuse of Cipro and other important antibiotics. Resistance can lead to disease outbreaks: The Antibiotic Paradox examines the build-up of new antibiotic-resistant bacteria and examines medical and social trends in treatment options.
            Power to Destroy: The Political Uses of the IRS from Kennedy to Nixon
            Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
            • Explains and explores methods and purposes
            Power to Destroy: The Political Uses of the IRS from Kennedy to Nixon
            John A. Andrew
            Manufacturer: Ivan R. Dee, Publisher
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Hardcover

            Economic HistoryEconomic History | Economics | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | 20th Century | United States | Americas | History | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | United States | Americas | History | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | Taxation | Law | Subjects | Books
            U.S.U.S. | Politics | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
            Federal GovernmentFederal Government | Levels of Government | Political Science | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
            ASIN: 1566634520

            Book Description

            How Democrats and Republicans alike used the IRS to accomplish political goals during the 1960s and early 1970s. Seemingly innocuous names like Operation Leprechaun and Project Tradewinds, together with an array of intelligence and surveillance activities, formed a pattern of abuse that threatened the foundations of American politcal culture. Based upon mind-boggling research...a monumental study.... The book will likely have a significant impact on how this key government agency and its role in American history is evaluated in the future. --Lewis L. gould. Powerful, trenchant, and ultimately wise. --Stanley I. Kutler

            Customer Reviews:

            5 out of 5 stars Explains and explores methods and purposes.......2003-01-11

            Any who would understand the functions and purposes of the IRS over decades of history and Presidential changes will want to read Power To Destroy, which explores how various projects and government agencies have changed IRS functions over the years. Both parties used the IRS to achieve political goals during the 1960s and 70s: this explains and explores methods and purposes.
            PowerTalk!: The Power to Create, The Power to Destroy (Powertalk!)
            Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
            • Abundance Mentality
            • Powerful, inspiring message.
            • Great tape for Economists and Tony Robbins Fans!
            PowerTalk!: The Power to Create, The Power to Destroy (Powertalk!)

            Manufacturer: Audio Renaissance
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Audio Cassette

            GeneralGeneral | Business | Books on Cassette | Audiobooks | Formats | Books
            ManagementManagement | Business | Books on Cassette | Audiobooks | Formats | Books
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            GeneralGeneral | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
            MotivationalMotivational | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
            MotivationalMotivational | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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            1. Unlimited Wealth: The Theory and Practice of Economic Alchemy Unlimited Wealth: The Theory and Practice of Economic Alchemy
            2. The New Wellness Revolution: How to Make a Fortune in the Next Trillion Dollar Industry The New Wellness Revolution: How to Make a Fortune in the Next Trillion Dollar Industry
            3. God Wants You to Be Rich God Wants You to Be Rich

            ASIN: 1559272031

            Book Description

            A breakthrough in the psychology of personal and professional success!What are the secrets to creating lasting change and improving your personal and professional life? Anthony Robbins offers a wealth of powerful ideas and strategies that you can use immediately to increase your income, influence others more effectively, improve your health, eliminate your fears and experience more joy and fulfillment every day of your life!Tape # 1: The Power To Create, The Power To Destroy!Anthony Robbins pulls together a vast array of scientific experimentation in learned response and research into motivational theory--and blends them into his own unique message. This is the key to his proven method for choosing to succeed. Tape # 2: An Interview with Paul Zane PilzerAnthony Robbins interviews Paul Zane Pilzer, bestselling author of Unlimited Wealth. This amazing meeting of minds blows the dust off the textbooks, reanimates economic theory, and makes economics not only understandable but invaluable in making the decisions that guide your life. Special BonusA booklet summary of highlights from Rafael Aguayo's Dr. Deming: The American Who Taught the Japanese About Quality-a fascinating exploration of the philosophy and practices of one of the world's pioneers in the fields of quality control, quality production, and quality management.

            Customer Reviews:

            4 out of 5 stars Abundance Mentality.......2001-05-14

            These are paradigm-shifting tapes, you will shift from a scarcity mentality to an abundance mentality. Just when you think there is not enough out there, you will see that there is more than enough.

            4 out of 5 stars Powerful, inspiring message........1999-09-21

            This is a fantastic tape on how to use your beliefs to overcome your present challenges. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to succeed.

            5 out of 5 stars Great tape for Economists and Tony Robbins Fans!.......1999-02-14

            Learn about the power of creating from the master of success, Tony Robbins.

            You'll enjoy the interview with Paul Zane Pilzer, author of Unlimited Wealth.

            I really appreciated Tony's vivid examples of how to jumpstart your life.

            Learn how to create something new.
            The Book the Communists Tried to Destroy, Toward Soviet Power
            Average customer rating: Not rated
              The Book the Communists Tried to Destroy, Toward Soviet Power

              Manufacturer: Elgin Publications
              ProductGroup: Book
              Binding: Hardcover
              ASIN: B000FLIKLK
              Collective Bargaining: The Power to Destroy
              Average customer rating: Not rated
                Collective Bargaining: The Power to Destroy
                Merryle Stanley Rukeyser
                Manufacturer: Delacorte Press
                ProductGroup: Book
                Binding: Hardcover
                ASIN: B000M0S21W
                Collective bargaining: the power to destroy;: New and better ways to industrial peace
                Average customer rating: Not rated
                  Collective bargaining: the power to destroy;: New and better ways to industrial peace
                  Merryle Stanley Rukeyser
                  Manufacturer: Delacorte Press
                  ProductGroup: Book
                  Binding: Unknown Binding

                  Labor & Industrial RelationsLabor & Industrial Relations | Politics | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
                  ASIN: B0007FCGSC
                  DARK FANTASY - Number 12 - April 1979: Fafnir; Lord of Lightning; Sea of Doom; Powers to Destroy; Shadows and Shades; Hand of the King; The Black Sword; Women of Wonder
                  Average customer rating: Not rated
                    DARK FANTASY - Number 12 - April 1979: Fafnir; Lord of Lightning; Sea of Doom; Powers to Destroy; Shadows and Shades; Hand of the King; The Black Sword; Women of Wonder
                    Howard E. (editor) (Tom Egan; Gordon Derevanchuk; Joe Froehlich; Phillip Heath; Neal Wilgus; Galad Elflandsson; Larry Gay; Dan Day) Day
                    Manufacturer: Shadow Press
                    ProductGroup: Book
                    Binding: Paperback
                    ASIN: B000LIDVZC
                    DESTROY THIS TEMPLE The Voice of Black Power in Britian
                    Average customer rating: Not rated
                      DESTROY THIS TEMPLE The Voice of Black Power in Britian
                      Obi Egbuna
                      Manufacturer: William Morrow & Company
                      ProductGroup: Book
                      Binding: Paperback
                      ASIN: B000MJ4FAK
                      Power Struggle: HOW IT ENHANCES OR DESTROYS OUR LIVES
                      Average customer rating: Not rated
                        Power Struggle: HOW IT ENHANCES OR DESTROYS OUR LIVES
                        WILLIAM T. SHANNON
                        Manufacturer: Plenum Press
                        ProductGroup: Book
                        Binding: Hardcover

                        GeneralGeneral | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
                        GeneralGeneral | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
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                        ASIN: 0306454068

                        I Think Im Outta Here: A Memoir
                        Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
                        • Great Memoir
                        • Interesting, but not about All in the Family
                        • All In The Mind
                        • I loved this book!!
                        • Not any of the Family
                        I Think Im Outta Here: A Memoir
                        Carroll O'connor
                        Manufacturer: Atria
                        ProductGroup: Book
                        Binding: Hardcover

                        GeneralGeneral | Theater | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
                        GeneralGeneral | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
                        GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
                        Actors & ActressesActors & Actresses | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
                        EntertainersEntertainers | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
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                        Direction & ProductionDirection & Production | Television | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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                        Similar Items:
                        1. Archie & Edith, Mike & Gloria: The Tumultuous History of All in the Family Archie & Edith, Mike & Gloria: The Tumultuous History of All in the Family

                        ASIN: 0671017586

                        Book Description

                        It is the genius of actor Carroll O'Connor that millions of fans will forever confuse him with his most unforgettable creation, Archie Bunker. But O'Connor has lived the kind of rich, momentous life that Archie could never have imagined. Now, emrerging from gehind the actor's mask for the first time, O'Connor writes eloquently and intimately about his great triumphs and terrible tragedies—and a career that has been immortalized in television history.

                        Growing up in Depression-era New York, Carrol O'Connor made his way armed with the quick wit, mischievous bent of mind, and engaging Irish charm that flow through these pages. From his rough and tumbel days in the merchant marine during World War ll—marked by big dreams, bar brawls, and bloody noses he moved on to salad days in Dublin. There he received an education in literature and in life, found his true calling in the theatre, and married his wife, Nancy...a fifty year success story that's still going strong.

                        O'Connor was soon invitied to Hollywood, the scene of his greatest achievements. His unique persective on the creation of All in the Family —and his certainty at the start that is was destined for ratings disaster—reveals television history in the making. And O'Connor vividly recalls scores of classic moments with Noman Lear, Rob Reiner and Jean Stapleton, as well a numberous other colleagues, including Howard Rollins (In the Heat of the Night), Clint Eastwood (Kelly's Heroes), and Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor (Cleopatra).

                        But Hollywood was also the source of O'Connor's most painful memory: the cocaine addition and suicide of his son, Hugh. As a grieving father, O'Connor was forced to asssume the most poignant and powerful role of his life, and he speaks honestly here about both his loss and his efforts to educate others about the horror of drug abuse.

                        Candid and insightful, spirited and funny, this is the story of all the families Carroll O'Connor has been able to call his own. And in a career graced with landmark achievements, I Think I'm Outta Here stands as on of the most moving and memorable of all.

                        Customer Reviews:

                        5 out of 5 stars Great Memoir.......2004-10-23

                        For those looking for a page by page account of O'Connor's groudbreaking work as Archie, this book will not quench your thrist. However, if you are looking for an erudite and honest memior on Carroll O'Connor the man this is book is a must. Carroll writes in a scholastic yet tangible style that captures your interest in the things beyond Archie. I would dare say this book is a must have for any actor or actress as it details the world of the golden stage on or off camera through the eyes of the actor. Sometimes O'Connor was frusturated with the souless monguls at the network or the ticket pandering stage producer, yet he always stands for what matters most to the actor and audience, the final product. Any skilled or novice actor/actress will gain insight into the journey of the stage. When you finish this work you will quickly learn and hopefully absorb the passion O'Connor had for not only his work but for his desire to aid humanity as a often quiet and sometimes not so quiet reformer. We need more like him.

                        4 out of 5 stars Interesting, but not about All in the Family.......2003-12-19

                        I'm a huge fan of that show, and believe O'Connor's long portrayal of Archie is the greatest and most groundbreaking acting performance in television history. So the fact that he offers almost no insight into that work in this memoir is a major letdown.
                        Still, he had a fascinating life and this is a very good read, even though he certainly doesn't always come off as a likeable or tolerant fellow. He has deep, strident beliefs, little affection for those who differ, and he bluntly tells us so.

                        The final chapter about his beloved son's descent into addiction, madness, and suicide, and a father's inability to stop it, is truly wrenching. That could have been a book by itself.

                        2 out of 5 stars All In The Mind.......2002-03-24

                        I'm not going to say much here; Only that this book may be the least interesting autobiography I have ever read. You know Carrol from "All In The Family" moreso than any other role he has portayed, yet he avoids discussing his tenure on that ground-breaking show from the 70's, instead telling us many things about his early history.
                        It appears he may feel the show overshadowed everything else he did, so to answer that, left it out of his book.
                        I was disappointed reading it and would not recommend the book to anyone.

                        5 out of 5 stars I loved this book!!.......2002-03-19

                        It tells the whole story thru the eyes of Carroll O'Connor!
                        It is a wonderful book to get lost in.
                        I started out a fan of All in the Family and ended a fan of O'Connor!!

                        1 out of 5 stars Not any of the Family.......2002-01-11

                        I love Archie Bunker and still consider him one of the best TV characters ever created. But I do not like Carroll O'Connor. I THINK I'M OUTTA HERE is a convoluted, self-centered work showing O'Connor to have been a man oblivious to the world around him. This book is dreadful. His belligerence likely sent his editor into hiding, for what else could explain why O'Connor was allowed his digressions into Irish history and his ridiculous footnotes about nothing? At one point, he tells of the "Divil" on his shoulder (with a footnote explaining how the "Divil" is another form of the "Devil") who speaks with an Irish accent, and how this Divil helped steer him through life.

                        I'm sure that O'Connor worked very hard to get where he did, to get the roles he did. But he makes it seem as if he deserved everything: he was born to his roles, and everyone in Hollywood thought so, too. I'd admire the man more if he told us how hard he did work to become a star. I'd enjoy hearing more about his friends in entertainment, and what he thought of working with Rob Reiner and Sally Struthers.

                        O'Connor follows the path of others who are known for doing one great thing and then write about it: he skirts around his most important accomplishment. He tells us how brilliant he was when he recreated Norman Lear's Archie Bunker, about how great Jean Stapleton was as Edith (no argument there), but then says something like "Those of you looking for a rehashing of what happened during the production of that show won't find it here," then jumps to his life post-cancellation of the show. Nothing new here.

                        The final chapter of this book is pitiful, but also made me pity Carroll O'Connor, which I'm sure would have angered the man greatly. His son, Hugh, succumbed to his drug habit, committing suicide after O'Connor attempted numerous interventions with his family at his side. It wasn't enough. Only in this final chapter do we see O'Connor as just another person -- vulnerable, powerless to control the lives of others -- a real man. It's sad that he could not have broken free of the reins of pretentiousness and told us his whole story with such emotion.

                        If you're a fan of All in the Family, steer clear. If you're a fan of Carroll O'Connor, rent some of his movies, watch episodes of All in the Family and In the Heat of the Night, then turn off your TV. This book does him no justice.

                        An Edge in Wordways
                        Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
                        • An unusual autobiography
                        An Edge in Wordways
                        Richard Dyott
                        Manufacturer: Authorhouse
                        ProductGroup: Book
                        Binding: Hardcover

                        GeneralGeneral | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
                        Family & ChildhoodFamily & Childhood | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
                        MemoirsMemoirs | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
                        GeneralGeneral | United States | Americas | History | Subjects | Books
                        GeneralGeneral | Asia | History | Subjects | Books
                        GeneralGeneral | China | Asia | History | Subjects | Books
                        ASIN: 1403328323

                        Customer Reviews:

                        5 out of 5 stars An unusual autobiography.......2002-12-01

                        Personal but with historical connections, the author describes a childhood in Tientsin N. China in the mid-twenties to early thirties, and continues at boarding school in wartime England, surviving the London Blitz to join the Royal Navy. He ends up in post-war London in a basement room which has an eccentric landlady who used play 'Principal Boy' in pantomime. I found it very funny and ageeably terse.

                        Books:

                        1. The Ultimate Book of Investment Quotations (The Ultimate Series)
                        2. The Ultimate Business Library: The Greatest Books That Made Management (The Ultimate Series)
                        3. Thomson WORLD Bank Directory 2003
                        4. Trend Tracking: The System to Profit from Today's Trends
                        5. Universal Service : Competition, Interconnection and Monopoly in the Making of the American Telephone System
                        6. Unlimited Prospects
                        7. Vault.com Career Guide to Consulting, 3rd Edition
                        8. Vault.com Career Guide to Investment Banking, 3rd Edition
                        9. Wall Street Wit & Wisdom
                        10. Weiss Ratings' Guide to Banks and Thrifts: Fall 2003 (Weiss Ratings' Guide to Banks and Thrifts)

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