Enterprise Books

I was very pleased with the "tricks" supplied in this book. I have raised and shown dogs for over 20 years and some of the ideas in this book cured problems that nobody else could. The book was written as a ready reference for exhibitors and I found it to be very informative. The rating would be higher if the author had included information on how to obtain some of the suggested items such as the whitener for coats, which I could not find at any store in my area. Overall, however, it was filled with useful and quick fixes to frequent problems!

You must get this book. I've met Pat Hastings in person and if her book blows you away when you read it, when you meet her, she'll knock your socks off. I've never met anyone as intelligent about dogs and structure as Pat. She knows it all, though she doesn't quite think so. This is an easy to understand book and you'll wonder how you ever got along without it when you're done. It will all become clear after you read this and the K-9 Structure book she recommends and paid to have reprinted!

Very informative. Great pictures and drawings of structure to explain what you are looking for.

A must have on any dog fanciers shelf. The book clearly covers what makes great dogs to priceless tips on the sport of dogs.

Shannon

This book was chose to be on the prestigious 'DogRead' as a book selection of the month. We only do 12 books a year and this was NOVEMBER 2000. The author comes on line for the whole month to answer questions on the book. It was very well received by our 3000 member email group. The author was very knowledgeable and easy to understand even though also very in depth.

treshell owner DogRead

I thought this was a great book especially for someone that is self-motivating. There are so any work-outs included it will keep you busy for a long time!

The triathlon program was thorough and easy to follow. I started the program less than 2 weeks ago and I can already see results. Highly recommended.

I never thought I could or would run a triathlon, but this book really helped me train. It was a great guide and plan for the winter, and hopefully I'll be able to compete in the spring. Without this I'd be lost.

This book looks very good. Other books concentrate on total fitness for triathlon with only limited emphasis on weight training, while this book puts all of its emphasis on weight training and is the perfect supplement to any other triathlon book. The programs appear to be very easy to follow. I look forward to putting it to good use.

Before reading this book I read "The Unified Modeling Language User Guide". I can say that "The Unified Modeling Language User Guide" is about the theory and "UML 2 and the Unified Process..." is about practice.

I think that both books are must for UML beginners and reference for the UML professionals.

In "UML 2 and the Unified Process.." authors show UML in action within the Unified Process, a framework for software development. The book describes how to analyze and design a software by giving a real example. Given examples are also complete and available online.

The language of the book is simple (easy to understand) and its contents is organized very well.

This book gave me an insight about the UML and also introduced me to the Unified Process. I would recommend it with 5+ stars to everybody.

UML has grown. A few years ago, when UML was just getting accepted, a book on how to use it would have been much thinner. But the successful broad uptake of UML led to its semantic notation being expanded. What the authors give us here is a thorough exposition of UML 2.0 and how to use it.

As you might expect, there are numerous examples in UML. Which, to many readers, might be more understandable than a mere abstract diagram. But the book is more than just about explaining the UML semantics. It also goes into the Unified Process for running a project, and how this can be documented in UML. By doing so, the authors hope to better enable an understanding of both.

There is also something else, related to the above, but sufficiently different and important to warrant notice. If you write in any object oriented language, it requires certain skills in designing classes and how they interact. Part 4 of the book concerns these issues, which it discusses under the rubric of "Design". A good explanation of the basic concepts. Like inheritance versus aggregation, or inheritance versus interfaces. Or why the lack of multiple inheritance in a language like C# or Java is not necessarily a deficiency.

As a matter of fact I'm not an UML fan nor I particularly favour unified process. Indeed, I'm much more into Agile Development and XP.

The authors do not try to explain why unified process should be better than other processes. They just describe the method: It's up to the reader to decide which parts of the method are good or bad for his job. The reader is not bored with long enthusiastic comments on how he will be a more capable engineer after learning UML and UP. Unified Process is described in an unbiased and precise way: even those who do not favour UP may gather new and interesting ideas to incorporate in their development method.

The approach on UML is even more interesting. The basic ideas is that graphics should be a view, but what matters is text (which *is* something that the UML creators *did* think). Far to many lesser books focus on diagrams and miss to explain the interesting part is their semantics and their descriptions. Indeed, I try not to use UML unless I'm rather sure it's the best way to express a given concept: this book is a helpful reference on how to write correct and practical specifications using UML.

This is a great useful book.

This book gives a good introduction into modern software enigeering and I think that especially the first chapters about basics in object orientation and how the whole process works should be read by every person participating in a software project. I think these chapters are also worth reading for non computer science people.

Although this book is written by social democrats, and I am nowhere near a social democrat, I found it to be a very fair and accurate (as far as I know) treatment of economics. Instead of the one dimensional approach favored by the neoclassical economics that dominates American universities, it uses a three dimensional "political economy" approach. It analyzes markets, power relations, and economic growth. And it tells you a lot of very important things that textbooks leave out, mostly relating to flaws with markets. I recommend this book to anyone who is seriously interested in economics. However, it easy enough for anyone to understand.

"Understanding Capitalism", as far as I know, is the best "alternative" introductory textbook dealing with how the economy works. Some of its content is similar to what one would find in a standard introductory economics textbook: the treatment of supply and demand, inflation, monetary and fiscal policy is fairly conventional, even when non-traditional notation is used. However, much else is fresh, insightful and non-dogmatic. It gives capitalism credit when it's due, and doles out criticism when it applies. Throughout the book, a "three-dimensional approach" is used: competition (horizontal market relations), command (vertical class relations) and change (developments over time) are all examined to give a meaningful picture of the economy. The book has three main parts: political economy (chapters 1-7), microeconomics (chapters 8-13) and macroeconomics (chapters 14-19). I will elaborate on some of the themes developed.

POLITICAL ECONOMY
Chapter 2 contains an amazing discussion of agency: "homo economicus", or as Amartya Sen proclaimed, the "rational fool" is challenged with the help of experimental game theory.
Chapter 4 refers to history of economic thought and briefly reviews the ideas of Adam Smith, Karl Marx, Joseph Schumpeter, John Maynard Keynes, Ronald Coase and Amartya Sen.
Chapter 5 examines the concept of surplus product, the conflict it engenders and its different uses.
Chapters 6 and 7 discuss capitalism and class in the context of different economic systems (slavery, feudalism, central planning, etc.) and review the different phases of American capitalism. An important insight that comes from this is that not all capitalisms are the same: different social and institutional arrangements exist. In fact, the "varieties of capitalism" approach in comparative political science draws on the same insight.

MICROECONOMICS
Chapter 9 contains an extensive discussion of market failure (some basic game theory is used).
Chapter 12 dwells on the insight that the labor market is fundamentally different from other markets. Purchasing labor is not enough: it has to be extracted. The authors use "efficiency wage" theory and a labor extraction curve to show why wages do not reach market clearing levels and why involuntary unemployment always persists (this is later used to discuss full employment in the part on macroeconomics).
Chapter 13 expands the notion of labor extraction and describes the main methods of control used by firms: simple (as in a fast food restaurant), technical (as in a car factory) and bureaucratic control (as in an office).

MACROECONOMICS
Chapter 15 discusses economic development. It takes on the efficiency-equality trade-off often assumed by economists as well as argues that successful development depends mainly on the local institutions rather than foreign investment. In fact, even some neoclassical economists such as Dani Rodrik from Harvard would agree.
Chapter 17 examines the business cycle in the context of the rate of profit (which is discussed extremely thoroughly in Chapter 10). During an expansion of the business cycle labor and material inputs gradually become more expensive and end up squeezing the rate of profit, leading to a decline in investment. This insight applies beyond a regular business cycle. I personally think that a very similar high-employment profit squeeze analysis can be used to partly understand why the post-war consensus in Great Britain was challenged by Thatcherism.

The style of this book is as good as the content. The figures, tables and boxes it employs (all in grayscale) are elegant and non-irritating (a characteristic almost impossible to find in introductory economics textbooks). The writing is lucid and engaging. One example of this is the opening of Chapter 6 which introduces the notion of surplus product by referring to the history of Cambridge, England: both the Medieval cathedral and the 17th century ditches in Cambridge are results of the surplus product. The former was used for religious purposes, the latter were used to drain marshy land and to expand productive capacity. Finally, the lists of suggested readings in the end of every chapter contain some very valuable recommendations.

Of course, as one reviewer pointed out, this book is not perfect. It disregards some mainstream concepts that are important or useful: price elasticity and welfare analysis, free trade and comparative advantage, production possibilities frontier (PPF). They can be successfully criticized (e.g. comparative advantage can be criticized as static and dependent on certain restrictive and unrealistic assumptions) but it is vital to know them since they are used in debates on public policy (taxes, trade, etc.). PPF in its turn helps to understand the difference between "crowding out" and "crowding in" due to fiscal policy. However, I do not think this takes away from this book. Most students will know mainstream concepts from regular courses. Thus, I highly recommend it!

As taught in most undergraduate courses, the world of mainstream economics is an orderly place where markets clear, economic actors are rational, and social harmony prevails. Readers wanting more realism should read "Understanding Capitalism," a superb introduction to economics written from a social democratic perspective. As in any introductory econ text, the book carefully analyzes market processes. However, it also analyzes "command" relationships within firms and the relationship between capitalist dynamics and economic growth. This "three dimensional" approach to economics -- the authors prefer the term "political economy" -- offers a comprehensive view of the subject.

The core chapters deal with microeconomics and macroeconomics. The micro section borrows from Marx and Schumpeter, and focuses on profit-seeking and "accumulation" as the keys to capitalist dynamics. The macro chapters draw on and update Keynes, and explain why unemployment is a persistent feature of U.S.-style capitalism (Swedish-style capitalism is a different matter). Throughout, economic concepts are related to ideas from anthropology, history, political science, and environmental science. Key points are illustrated with examples from the daily news; there is much algebra, but no calculus; the writing is clear. This is a very reader-friendly econ text.

It is also refreshingly non-dogmatic. Although the authors are leftists, they acknowledge that capitalism obliterates archaic economic structures and lifts standards of living. They also highlight the role of profit-seeking in the development of new technologies and production methods. Their tone is consistently reasonable and fair to all points of view. Of course, no book is perfect. I would have preferred a more traditional analysis of microeconomics (complete with graphs showing average cost, marginal cost, and so forth). The sections on international trade and finance are too skimpy for a book trying to make sense of modern globalized capitalism. But overall, "Understanding Capitalism" is superb. No one taking a mainstream lower-division course on economics should miss it -- and anyone teaching such a course should consider using it as a supplemental text.

I've always found studying economics to be an extremely frustrating experience. It seems my only options for learning about capitalism are (1) academic economists who study free-market processes but act as though political economy doesn't and never did exist, or (2) Marxist activists, who DO talk about political economy, but whose actual grasp of it is somewhat weak (and whose grasp of free-market principles is even weaker). Understanding Capitalism is really an anomaly in that it doesn't fit neatly into either of the aforementioned groups. This may be partly explained by the fact that at least one of the authors is a political scientist. Anyway, the book covers both free-market capitalist economics AND political economy, as well as providing (in the first chapter) a masterful summary of the rise and explosive growth of capitalism, first in England, then Europe, and now the world. I wish I could give you the whole table of contents so you could see how wide the scope of this book really is. Just to convince you that it isn't your standard college economic textbook, however, I'll give you a taste.

Here are the titles of a few sections within the book:
"Values in Political Economy"
"Karl Marx"
"Capitalism, the Surplus Product and Profits"
"Class and Class Relationships"
"The Capitalist Firm as a Command Economy"
"Race and Inequality" (!)
"The Limits of Democratic Control of the Capitalist Economy"

Here are the titles of a few chapters within the book:
"Capitalism Shakes the World"
"Political Economy, Past and Present"
"Competition and Concentration"
"The Mosaic of Inequality"
"Progress and Poverty on a World Scale"
"The Future of Capitalism"

If you have only heard criticisms of capitalism from Marxist literature, this book will be extremely valuable. You'll get a more scientific understanding of the same principles and a good presentation of the critique of capitalism scattered throughout the entire book. At the same time, you're sure to learn more about the workings of a free-market economy in the absence of government control (from both a neoclassical perspective and other perspectives). Most economics textbooks practically seem like they're written for business students, and they sure aren't interested in helping the reader really "understand capitalism." Read this book, and you will understand capitalism.

This Guide is an Excellent resource for one starting a new business. It renders some very meaningful and behind the scenes content that most books gloss over or don't even mention. A great buy and handy tool to have on your desk even after starting a business.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is starting or who has a small business. There is a ton of good information and great references given throughout the entire book. I am very impressed with the amount of good information in such a small, compact book.

This is one of the best books I've read on this subject. Marcia Layton Turner really knows her stuff. I bought several copies to give to friends who are thinking about starting businesses.

I just got the book and cannot put it down. Ms. Turner makes a potentially dry subject come to life. I particularly like the sidebar information, good examples to support the overall message.

I first learned about Up North Dream from a newspaper article. My wife and I always dreamed of moving Up North but weren't sure how to do it. After reading this book, we are now confident we will move Up North in the next few years. We can't wait to wake up everyday at our lake cabin.

A 'must read' for anyone interested in living in Northern Michigan. This book is very timely and relevant. It covers many topics of interest. I am using this book as a guide to ensure I am making all the right decisions for my family.

The author offers excellent advice and strategies for making a move to any desired location, not necessarily limited to just Northern Michigan. Containing anecdotes, checklists, and organizational information, the book discusses everything from the beauty of the north country to practical considerations such as investigating potential hometowns, job-hunting, starting a small business, budgeting, scheduling and financial planning.

I would have rated it 5-stars except for the fact that the discussion of Northern Michigan itself is actually very general and relatively brief. There is no specific information given on different communities and areas, such as characteristics of the geography and population, economic growth, amenities, etc., which would be helpful in narrowing-down likely areas in which to possibly relocate. The reader is left with the process of personally obtaining this type of information by referring to almanacs, chambers of commerce, newspapers, and web-based resources.

I recently attended an adult education course presented by the author on moving to Northern Michigan. The book and course included so much more than I expected. Thanks!

Required reading if you are in the appraisal business, even though it is a little dated.

This is a great book for a business library

I open this book every time I do a valuation. It is a great resource when you need to refresh your memory. The example of a professional practice valuation has been especially helpful. It's probably a little much for the business owner wanting to estimate the value of his/her business, but I would definitely recommend it to a professional.

Business Valuation is the single largest niche practice area for the CPA today. Dr. Pratt covers an extensive amount of material in this text. No valuation specialist should be without this text in his or her reference library.

I found this to be an extremely well written effort. Johnathan shows a firm grasp of what it takes to succeed in the world of small business. I highly recommend this selection to any individual that is looking to harness his or her entrepreneurial spirit into a profitable enterprise.

Move over Stephen Covey. A new influential business author isassuming his rightful position on the capitalist stage. JonathanAspatore's most recent must-buy provides readers with a detailed portrait of the American entrepreneurial spirit and the tools necessary to realize "the dream."

A smart guide for the beginning entrepreneur and the seasoned pro alike, this book provides a thoughful approach to beginning a business. With tips from people from a wide variety of backgrounds and industries and wise financing strategies, this book offers something for everyone. It was a pleasure to read such an enthusiatic and helpful piece.

The author Jonathan Aspatore provides a veritable yellow brick road for understanding how to start your own business from the brain-storming to implemenation and execution stages. Especially fascinating were the stories of other entrepreneurs.

I loved the book! What a great storyline with so much detail. I would definitely recommend this book, and can't wait for the next one.

This is a great sci fi book, and its the first in what looks like an amazing series.

A well written story that keeps you wanting more. Captivating detail that makes you feel like you are there and are a part of the story. Shows Christian values but doesn't preach them. Can't wait for the next book in the series!

Beautifully written! The characters are well thought out and leave you feeling that you know them. The plot builds nicely and leaves you wanting more. Obviously, this is a writer with the talent to keep you entertained. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a great story!

I truly enjoyed reading 'Walking with God'. I found it an interesting and inspirational novel; very well-written and realistic. Anyone who would enjoy coming a few steps closer to knowing how it might feel to spend a little time walking with our Savior as an individual, on a one-on-one basis, and speaking our prayers directly to Him, should read this novel.

Walking with God is a truly phenomenal book. The characters are three-dimensional, the dialogue is crisp, and above all, the story unfolds in an emotional and stirring way. Ms. Otto bears watching (and reading)!

Great job!

What a wonderful, wonderful and well written book. I find it amazing how someone can tie the present with the past so well. It is really a very well written and easy too read book. I think all churchs should have one for their people too read.

This book has given me a whole new insight about the time of Christ. All of the characters I have known from the Bible have come alive for me after reading this book. Ms. Otto did an excellent job of humanizing Mary Magdalene, made her so much more relatable then any other account I have read of her. I highly recommend this book for all people.