Fashion Books

I stumbled across this book at my local bookstore, and I feel like this book found me--I read it one afternoon, cover to cover. Amanda's insights are touching and real about the struggles and joys of living a single life. I think the best thing about this book is that Amanda's writing reaffirms the idea of having hope in oneself. A gem of a book!

Inspiring, reassuring, encouraging, insightful, compassionate, fun, and wonderful!

As a single woman, I'm often tormented with thoughts of unworthiness based on my marital status. Many factors contribute to these insecurities including cultural expectations and familial pressures. Somehow, we've convinced one another that life doesn't begin until you have married and have settled down.

There's nothing wrong with searching for "the one," but Amanda Ford reminds us that life can still be enjoyed while we are searching.

This book gave me much needed perspective in a time when I thought I should just throw in the towel and officially label myself a spinster and a failure. I had come to the incorrect conclusion that because I wasn't with anyone, I couldn't have an enjoyable, happy life. Amanda reminds us that the grass is just as green on our side (the single side) as it is on their side (the married side), sometimes greener.

What I have in my current state as a single gal is freedom--freedom to find out what I love, what I'm passionate about, and what I'm not willing to settle for.

We must be able to adapt and find happiness and contentment on our own, because even if we find our soulmates, he or she will not fulfill us all of the time.

I agree with the similar sentiments here that every woman needs to read this. And then re-read it everytime you doubt your worth. It will inspire you to keep going and never give up.

By far the best book I have ever read as a single woman- I have been struggling with my past breakup and this book has changed my perspective in life totally- and has honestly changed my life and the way I now think. I started on a mission of "finding myself" and went to the book store for some help and stumbled upon this book and it was perfect and exactly what I needed.

Amanda Ford understands the pains of being single, but says it's just a natural state of life. And isn't that the truth? If so, then why do we try to avoid those things in life which we find distasteful? Is it peer pressure? Media? Or maybe it's a little of both.

In KISS ME, I'M SINGLE, Amanda Ford has single women step back and evaluate their life, not run from it. She encourages us to rid ourselves of the falsehood that women must be in a relationship to be happy. Her book is packed with mini stories, all of which I could related to. Each story is followed with a bit of advice delivered in a loving and sometimes humorous tone.

Even though I am no longer single, Ford's message is one I can use. That message is that true love begins with me. I must look with myself in order to discover the joy in my life. It's not found in another person. In other words, two incomplete people do not equal out to be a whole. What you end up with is two unhappy people.

If a list of must read books for women existed, then KISS ME, I'M SINGLE would be on it. I highly recommend this book for ALL women, not just the single ones. Ford's sweet, upbeat tone will bring a smile to your face.

Kiss Me,I'm Single is for absolutely everyone who lives and breathes and longs for something more than the fairy-tale, miniscule and limited horizons we are led to believe are our due. Do not be fooled by the title which refers to being single, this book is a treasure awaiting discovery! Amanda Ford is brilliant. She asks all of the right question and she gives you answers without ever once telling you she knows or setting herself up as the authority. in the guise of a young person(could this author really be only 26??) and with fantastic wit she touches your heart. This book could be in the Philosophy secton or sitting next to the ageless wisdom of the seekers/masters.
Everyone, male, female, young and old, alone or in relationship, here, there, everywhere needs to read this book!

This is my most used fitting resource. It is extremely easy to pinpoint your fitting errors by comparing your garment to the clear photographs of fit issues in the book. Accompanying these are explanations and instructions for the alteration needed (along with additional photos of what the altered pattern piece looks like). There is a section on figure variations, where the 'standard' figure is shown alongside common figure variations (for example: average thighs, compared to full thighs and thin thighs). All of the pictures in the book are actual photographs of real women, which is immensely helpful for comparison to one's own figure. This book is organized, easy to use, and extremely useful; use it make your garments tailored perfectly to your unique figure.

this has been a great help for adjusting patterns and getting a better fit. easy basic. and easy to understand including pictures for those of us who learn better by hands on doing. then just reading in a book.

Wow! This book is amazing. Even if the alteration information was terrible (which it's not), the beginning of the book would be well worth it's price. It begins by teaching you how to select the right pattern first. The authors explain how commercial patterns are built, and the differences between classic, relaxed and dramatic fit. The fitting section begins with a comprehensive figure analysis. Rather than having you squint at yourself in a mirror and decide, "Why yes, I AM a perfect hourglass figure," it explains how to make a full-sized body drawing, label the points and literally connect the dots to reveal your body type.

The book is stuffed with pictures. There are tons of pictures showing "average" body parts, and bodies on both sides of average. It was really easy to look at the pictures and say "Those are my arms. That's what my inner thigh looks like." I also didn't have to try to figure out how to perform each alteration, because there are detailed pictures that show every single line, snip and slide. It covers a wide range of alterations, explaining adjustments for shoulders, arms, waist, hips, thighs, bust, abdomen, and seat. Each adjustment section is then divided into minor adjustments and major adjustments, shows procedures for doing both, and includes the maximum recommended amount of adjustment so you don't distort your pattern. For each variation from average, the book includes a chart the explains the fitting goal, flattering styles and details, unflattering styles and details and common pattern adjustments. It helps you start out by choosing a pattern that is likely to flatter your body without a lot of adjustments. Finally, I felt like the book avoided judgemental labels like skinny/fat, large/flat, which I appreciated.

My only (extremely small) issue with this book is that some of the fashion photos are outdated. This must be a later edition of a previously published book. Although it is copywritten 2005, some of the clothing styles look like mid to late 1980's. This absolutely does not affect the information in the book, since it is talking about alterations, not choosing fashions. However, it came up just a couple times, such as the author's enthusiastic embrace of shoulder pads, and a complete lack of discussing bootcut pants and where they fit on the body-type spectrum. On the whole, it was a very small issue. Just don't look too closely at their fashion plates at the beginning of each chaper!

All in all, this book is fabulous. If you want a coffee table book about current fashions, skip it. If you want a book that will help you make your clothing fit, this is the one! It's the first alteration book that I have purchased, and I can't see needing anything else. It is clear, complete, and so easy to follow.

Haven't been able to use the book since I had already fiqured out the fit for my daughter's wedding gown before I found out about the book, but looks like it will be helpful for future projects. Got the book in short time and in good condition.
Kathy

... guide to adjusting commercial patterns. I borrowed this book from my local library and was so impressed I ordered my own copy immediately from Amazon. If you never quite get the right fit using commercial patterns then this book is for you. Simple, clear, concise, easily followed instructions, each accompanied by a clear colour photo. It also covers adjustments for various body shapes and recommends styles that suit or don't accordingly. I have now been able to make a master pattern for a top that perfectly fits my sloping shoulders. Using this book it was so simple. It would suit absolute beginner home sewers to those of an intermediate level. My next project will be perfectly fitting trousers ;-) Very highly recommended.

It is said that a woman cannot have enough shoes or handbags. I heartily agree.

This is a wonderful book that should prove of interest to almost all women and men too! Packed with informative and colorful illustrations, we are taken on a journey detailing the history of footwear from Ancient Egypt to the present day. And what an interesting journey it is.

There is something for every shoe afficionado in this small but fun book. Perhaps the biggest lesson to be learned here is that if one waits long enough, any style of footwear will once again become popular and a "must have" piece of a woman's wardrobe.

Which reminds me, a local shoe store is having a sale this weekend....

LOVE the fact that there is pop culture included. More content than most. I love the section on Sex and the City!

You don't have to be Carrie Bradshaw to love this little book, beautiful and fascinating if you love shoes this book will give you lots of delightful insights into the way shoes have evolved. Lovely photographs and the writing is delicious. Make a wonderful stocking stuffer for the shoe-shopper in your life.

What is it about women and shoes??? Stephanie Pedersen's "Shoes: What Every Woman Should Know" is an awesome history of shoess from past to present. The photos are delicious, and I enjoyed reading about the history of shoes.

One of my favorite sections in the book was "Red Shoes", which was all about the sexual power of scarlet pumps. The adage "red shoes, no knickers may or may not be true, but I ain't tellin'!

If you have more than two pairs of shoes in your closet, you'll love this book!

Carla
www.CarlaLynneHall.com

I am enjoying Shoes: What Every Woman Should Know so much that I have decided to order a few copies for my more stylish girlfriends as a Christmas gift. The book effectively describes how a woman's image is often shaped by her own shoes. Shoes described range from sexy -- I love the chapter on the stiletto -- to elegant and graceful, such as the chapter on shoes of the silver screen in the 40s.

The author, Stephanie Pedersen explains how shoes have been worn by women as a symbol of sensuality. Not only did I learn about the history of shoes from this stylish and reasonably priced book, but I learned about fashion, design and culture. Pedersen's artful descriptions coupled with the colorful images have really inspired me to consider my own shoe collection and what is says about me. After reading this book, I want to go on a little shoe shopping spree to add a few pairs to my own collection -- the book heps one to understand what shoes can say about one's image.

Now that shoes from the 20s, 30s and 40s are making a comeback in modern fashion, it is even more fun and interesting to read about how those styles were influenced by the trends, attitudes, movie stars and even dances of those decades. My favorite sections are "1923: The Charleston," "1939: Red Shoes," from the chapter "The Jazz Years." Also, "Shoes of the Silver Screen" from the Chapter on the Hollywood Years, and the section on Sex and the City from the Chapter, "The Designer Years."

The first chapter of the book is excellent, and fills you in on the fascinating history of shoes, with interesting bits of information such as the cultural attitudes in Asia and fashion trends in the late Middle ages, when Florence was the fashion capital of the world.

This is a book you will read again and again, and want to keep handy to refer to often to inspire you to consider shoes as a part of your own style, and certainly to show to all your friends. You will learn something about yourself from this book because it helps you to understand what your shoes say about you! Whatever image you want to convey from sexy to confident, graceful to elegant - this book will help you understand which shoe styles could help you make the precise statement you want about yourself and your sense of style and originality!

Sweater Design in Plain English I just received this book but it looks good. I am a long time knitter who needs good directions. I am planning on using this book to solve problems in other designs as well as using the designs included.

This was sent in great condition and sent promptly. A great gift, it is already being used! Thanks!!

I am excited about design and heard this book is about the best out there. It looks straight-forward and inspiring. I like her other Knitting in Plain English so I'm sure this will be satisfactory. Give it a whorl.

The author does an excellent job of explaining sweater construction and fit for a wide variety of body types. She also discusses common sweater knitting pitfalls at length. This book is not only an essential reference for designing a sweater from scratch, but also for customizing and/or correcting other people's patterns.

I actually expected a book with in-depth description of the drape of knitted fabric, comparison and datailed discussion of stitch pattern. All these are mentioned only VERY superficially, e.g. knitted fabric is forgiving, cables pull in.

The author went too far into the arithmetic of sweater shaping (she even explained what is an even number...), she basically spans 2 pages worth of contents into 200 pages. Read a sample chapter on one of the sweater design and you'll get what I mean. If you find that kind of instruction useful you'll probably like this book.

I'd definitely return it if shipping is not that expensive. I gave it 3 stars however as probably it's just that I'm not a targeted audience of this book.

Working as a fitness model can be an enjoyable and profitable career. However, there are many pitfalls and dangers to avoid on this path, and for the first time someone who not only works, but has had tremendous success in this field is available to guide you. From creating your first portfolio, to the details of endorsement contracts, fitness model extraordinaire Clark Bartram will advise you, drawing on years of experience. You'll read about the great satisfaction such a career can bring, but perhaps more importantly you'll be told the truth about the reality of being a fitness model. This includes not only what attributes you'll need to succeed, but also your attitude, and how much money you can honestly expect to earn per shoot. In any field, links with people on the 'inside' are often what's needed to get that big break, and there's plenty of insiders in this book sharing their knowledge with you.

It's not only great man-to-man advice in this book though. The beautiful, and very successful Monica Brant offers advice from a woman's perspective, which is of use to both male and female readers. Also, the people behind the cameras talk about what they look for in a model in the 'Lessons From The Other Side' section. All invaluable knowledge. The structure of the text is such that you can read from cover to cover, but also go straight to a particular topic and still have all the information you need.

In short, if you're serious about a career as a fitness model, or just curious about what such a job would involve, then you cannot afford to pass up on this book. Agencies, self-promotion, tricks of the trade, training programs, possible employers, useful resources and even haircuts are all covered. I've found this book an exceptional resource, and my thanks to Clark Bartram for writing it.

This total insider's guide to the fitness modeling industry offers valuable information in a conversational manner, lets you know who's looking for the next fitness superstars, AND tells you exactly how to contact them.

Clark Bartram's own accounts of his success are honest, candid, and loaded with advice and encouragement for aspiring fitness models - guys and girls. You really feel like he's opening up and telling you everything you need to know. Plus, a lot of his influential friends - agents, photographers, and magazine editors - have contributed chapters explaining the business from every angle.

You come away learning that fitness modeling isn't just about being in tremendous shape, it's about being a shrewd businessperson with a positive attitude. You really learn what it takes - and as a bonus you get simple but effective advice on training and nutrition to keep in top shape all year long.

If you decide you want to be a fitness model after reading this book, you'll feel like you have some real friends in the industry. If you call anyone mentioned in the book and tell them that you read it, I think they'd give you a real shot if you're serious. If you decide you don't want to be a fitness model after reading this book, you'll still have a positive guide with powerful advice you can use to look, feel, and be your very best.

Clark has helped me learn how to achieve the goal I want and to market myself in the fitness business. He has the knowledge, and the dedication to get you anywhere you want to be. After reading his book I too believe that If I work hard and dedicate myself that I could have a future being a Fitness model. This is an incredible book and I would recommend it to anyone interested in Fitness.

This book has helped me find business contacts that would have probably cost me alot of money if I would have searched other ways.I really did'nt know that it was this easy to contact the people who make the big decisions. I could'nt and would'nt have done it without this book. If you have ever had the dream of being a fitness model,then I strongly advise you to buy this book...

It's so refreshing to finally find a book that applies specifically to the interests of fitness models and that covers the topic so thoroughly. Weeding through the books written for fashion models was becoming tiresome, so I was pleasantly surprised when I finally came across this book. While reading it, I was ecstatic to find that it was packed full of useful information. I was able to identify the mistakes I've been routinely making and start implementing Clark's invaluable advice. All of the other books I've purchased have not been as useful to me as this one book. I recommend it to anyone who is serious about fitness modeling!

This book is a gold mine! I spent several hours over many months researching medical tourism online. Had I simply read this book, my research would have been far quicker and far more informative. Beauty From Afar doesn't just talk about the industry, but gives solid advice on anything you could possibly want to know about getting surgery outside of the country. I was most surprised to read about Brazil (and Dr. Patanguy) as being at the forefront of advanced cosmetic surgery. Also of interest was the focus on Costa Rica. With direct flights from many major US cities, why would anyone go to the Far East when Costa Rica has an abundance of top-quality surgeons. You can get to Costa Rica within a few hours by plane. The price might be a bit more expensive than Thailand, but the ease of travel makes a huge difference.

I had to get four crowns put in my mouth a couple of years ago. It cost me $2,000 out of pocket. And that was WITH dental insurance!! And, that was after fighting with my insurance company for two months to approve the care. And the quality wasn't all that great. I could have had far better quality, care, and price had I had this done during a recent trip to Costa Rica. Probably for about $800. Or, I could have driven down to Mexico from Tucson, where I used to live.

What was also interesting is the author's approach to choosing medical travel. He recommends picking a country first. Then research the surgeons and facilities. Much of the research on the internet is very vague. The author cuts right to the chase, giving more relevant and reliable information than any other source.

My brother is in need of some major dental work and needs his eyes lifted. His eyelids hang over his eyes. People tell him that this could be covered by insurance, but it's not. And his dental insurance pays next to nothing. So I am helping him to have all of his dental work and eye lid surgery done in Costa Rica. This book has been a heaven sent.

If you are considering any sort of cosmetic work, pick up this book first.

If you are considering going abroad for any medical/dental care, I highly recommend that you spend a serious amount of time doing "due diligence" - IE. Research, Investigate and Get First Hand Recommendations.

I have work in International Medicine for 18 years. I have personally known outstanding dentist and medical doctors from countries all over the world, including those countries that Jeff Schult listed in this book (Brazil, Argentina, Mexico etc.). However, often in the same countries, I have meet and seen the work of incompetent, ignorant and unprofessional doctors as well. That said, I would have no hesitation getting certain medical & dental procedures in certain countries if I knew WHO would do WHAT, WHERE and HOW. That will take research.

Thus, above all do your homework. Start with a few good books. Jeff Schult has written a good primer. He set an excellent example of doing your homework when he wrote in his chapter titled: "Research, Research, Research" where he notes that he read books, gathered more than 1500 news stories and saved 6000 post from internet forums. This book, along with Josef Woodman's, "Patients Beyond Borders", can help you begin building a solid information base upon which you can make your plans. Happy Travels. Strongly recommended 4.5 stars

Great book regarding medical tourism. Includes alot about dental tourism. Personal experiences of dental work done in Costa Rica. Plastic surgery options, weight loss surgery and more. Ways to get affordable healthcare for services not covered by insurance or for the un- or under insured.
Fast shipping. Item as described. Seller is highly recommended.

I was looking for information on Thailand. I had better luck on the Internet and my cosmetic trip turned out fine. Since there was little on Thailand I didn't look into what else was in there. So it may be fine for other countries--I don't know.

In a few months I will be flying to Vitoria, Brazil for a "total body" makeover with Dr. Fabio Zamprogno Mendes ([...]) thanks to Jeff's book on medical tourism (I'll write back in September and share the results!) After reading the book I had complete confidence to travel outside the U.S. for plastic surgery and the tools to adequately research everything I needed to know to make my trip a success. It's interesting that you may know one or two people who have gone to a U.S. plastic surgeon but the foreign docs have forums where all patients share. I know much more about my foreign doctor and what his patients think of him than I did with any plastic surgeon in the U.S. I can have everything done that I've dreamed of and afford it. My bill will be 60 to 70% cheaper than what I would pay here. By all means, read Jeff's book and embark on the make-over journey you have always wanted!

When I first picked up the book I figured that I would thumb through it, read the sections that appealed to me, and forget the rest. I started at the beginning and read it all the way through. The stories were captivating and the ingredient information was especially helpful. The premise of the book is new and refreshing. This book made me feel more optimistic and motivated about myself and my direction in life. It is wonderful to acknowledge how we are all beautiful in our own way.

I found this book thoroughly entertaining and informative. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it is not geared solely to women who read fashion magazines. It has great appeal even for those of us who trip in high heeled shoes and own only one purse. It is filled with excellent practical tips and is written in such a witty, easy to read manner that it reads like a novel. It is contagious. I hope the authors write more books!

I'm a woman who has it all- husband, kids, house, career - and sometimes all the demands leave me a bit... haggard looking. This book is practical and educates me on taking better care of my skin so my inner beauty shines through! I love the appendix of great products that are sure to fit my price range. I'm definitely giving this book to my beauty buddies!

What a great combination these two docs are! They are the perfect prescription to help EVERY WOMAN learn to appreciate all of her assets and NOT TO FOCUS on her flaws. I feel a million times better about myself and am learning to remember to try to project that inner happiness because I know it makes me not only look better, but feel better too! Not everyone's lucky enough to be on Dr. Debi & Dr. Eva's patient list so many thanks to these talented, intelligent, insightful (and beautiful!) women for sharing their knowledge and experience with us fortunate readers.

The Beauty Prescription is an extraordinary book! While it does a remarkable job explaining how to enhance your outer beauty, it is unique on its focus on cultivating the inner beauty waiting to be released in us all. Written by a renowned psychiatrist and a nationally recognized dermatologist, this book is a must read for those who want to maximize their beauty inside and out. I loved this book and enthusiastically recommend it to all of my friends.

This is an outstanding summary of Bettie's life and her impact on modeling, art, pin-up, photography, and those needing encouragement in overcoming obstacles. The book is a nice way to learn about Bettie Page and those individuals she worked with during her career and growing up. It stops short of telling about recent events, but gives one a good understanding of the lady. The information is factual and well written. Much speculation has been made about the time she walked away through the present, but this is a nice account with the facts that we know to be true without the speculation. The pictures within this book are amazing and many won't be seen anywhere else. The information about those individuals she touched, encountered was interesting as well. Good read.

So said one of her photographers. What a marvelous book. If you're like me, and have been a Bettie fan for years, you've been waiting for this book. For years one could find stuff on her only in comic shops and the like, dealing in old memorabilia from the Fifties, or in various "alternative" shops that sold her image on T shirts. As a teen that's where I learned about her, thanks to "The Rocketeer," the comic "The Bettie Pages," and psychobilly trash-punk band the Cramps, who for a short time had a bass player the spittin' image of our fair maiden. Now that we've finally opened our eyes, we can buy several books on her, this being by far the best. It is the ne plus ultra of Bettiebooks, of pin-up books in general. What a trend-setter; a humble, troubled, open and honest woman who was not exploited, who has not turned herself into a PC victim--she's idolized by smart, hip young women who see in her freedom, sexuality, playfullness, life itself. This book had better be reprinted--it's an absolute crime to be unavailable. Get this book by any means necessary!

I bought this book for my husband's birthday last year; he has always thought Bettie Page was great, and he is the one who enlightened me about her. As an artist, I was drawn to her style and unpretentiousness, and have drawn her twice so far.

This book is well-written and leads the reader through Bettie's life; from her start and to her present day in a respectful and fascinating manner. I came away from this book understnanding the appeal she had to men, and wanting to draw her portraits over and over.

There was one another 50's icon who rivals Marilyn in popularity today--Bettie Page. True, she didn't make any A-movies, but like Marilyn, embodied that woman who drew a fine line between good girl/bad girl and crossed the lines as easily as one drank Coca-Cola. Unlike Marilyn, Bettie survived, but like Marilyn, her legend lives on for one simple reason: she dropped out of sight in 1957 following the fall of Irvin and Paula Klaw by the Kefauver Committee on indecency and pornography and refused to have herself be photographed as she is now. Thus, she is remembered as she was back then. And as her life has become simpler, she values her privacy. She says so as much in the hand-written foreword, at the same time surprised and honoured that so many people are interested in her.Karen Essex and James L. Swanson book is a great place to start for those curious about Bettie Page. Basically, it's a biography accompanied by lots and lots of colour and b&w photos, many of them topless. There are two of them which has her completely nude. She also posed for countless magazine covers and photographers. Art Amsie's photos are the best of the lot here. Bunny Yeager is touched on briefly, but that woman has a book on herself so... Looking at the early Bettie, before she became a pin-up from 1947, is also quite a revelation. She is still beautiful, but in an ordinary way, like a typical girl growing up in 1940's America.There is clearly a dualism going on here. There's the pretty wholesome girl in the bathing suit or maybe not, and then there's the darker leatherbound fetish girl, be she receiver or giver. That latter half led to her downfall. The point also was that she enjoyed her work, mainly the lighter beach stuff. You can see it in those twinkling eyes and smile of hers.The last section of the book features models who have been influenced by her, be they in clothes or just looking like her. Of the lookalikes, Eva Herzigova, Debi Mazar, and Janice Dickinson have got it down to the bangs, (it's the bangs that did it for Bettie, after all), long black hair, and prominent eyebrows.Apart from being one of fantasy artist Olivia's favourite subjects, Bettie's images appear on album covers by My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult and the David Lee Roth Band. Her three videos, Teaserama, where she acts opposite stripper legend Tempest Storm, Varietease, and Strip-O-Rama have come out. She'll live on, no doubt about it.Anyone interested in Bettie Page-start with this book. You won't be disappointed.

This is the ultimate book on Bettie Page. This book is for every true Bettie fan. Even contains an introduction from Bettie herself.

If you really want to follow the history of legend, this is the ultimate book on Betty Mae Page!

At first glance I was already excited to make the patterns in this book! It offers a great variety of items, along with complete outfits. The best part is the writing of the patterns. They are written with very clear step by step directions. The reference guide included explains in words and pictures how to do everything from the basics to the advanced techniques. EVERYTHING you need to know is explained in this book, allowing you to simply pick up the book and start knitting!

This is a great book. I've already made the Vintage Hat and plan to make the Lacy Scarf to coordinate. Another of my favorites is the Funnel Neck Sleeveless Top. It's such a classic timeless design as are all of the other designs in the book. One of the favorites in my book collection!

There are so many projects in this book that I have lined up to knit, mostly for myself. Great designs, pictures and easy to follow directions. Not to mention designs that you can actually wear everyday!

The patterns are clear and easy to follow.
The photos are beautifully done, highlighting the features of the garments.

I got this book a couple of weeks ago and already am in the middle of a couple of projects. Great designs - elegant and universal, easy to follow instructions, helpful techniques section. Anybody will find patterns to their liking. The book really inspires you to pick up your knitting needles. What a great start for the fall season!

Immense credit must be given to Dr. Gaines-Ross who bravely and successfully takes on, notwithstanding the post Enron anti-CEO environment, the hypersensitive issue of CEO reputation. Yes, agrees Gaines-Ross, being a high profile, ego obsessed CEO is asking for trouble and is to be avoided like the plague. She refuses, however, to engage in the now fashionable tendency toward unrestrained CEO bashing, preferring instead a reasoned, astute and carefully researched analysis of the CEO's role.

While adding her voice to those who deride media hyped personalities, what she refers to as big "C" Celebrity CEOs, she cautions that old fashioned leadership is still desirable. When engaged in by talented CEOs, it may, indeed should, lead to the creation of an executive persona. Such a persona need not require media exposure and is entirely compatible with sound corporate practice. Such persona bearing CEOs are small "c" celebrated CEOs, who "by dint of strong leadership, discriminating vision, force of character and other admirable traits become celebrated by their employees, their industry, their peers, and occasionally (though not necessarily) even the media for jobs well done."

Gaines-Ross' book amounts to a much needed, intellectually honest warning not to let the anti-CEO backlash go too far. Refusing to jump blindly onto the anti-CEO bandwagon as have so many business pundits, she stresses that executive leadership is still necessary and if effectively and ethically rendered is something which should not be hidden under the rug but promoted openly. In pursuing the cause of sound, old fashioned corporate leadership, she lays out a roadmap, based on original research, on how CEOs may repair their reputations, stressing among other things the need to communicate internally, build a management team, develop a thematic stamp and a vision.

She deserves immense praise not only for her honest appraisal of the role of CEOs in today's business environment but also for presenting an immensely practical and useful format on how to lead ethically, energetically and effectively.

A major, original addition to the literature on leadership and reputation ... no doubt about it.

Immense credit must be given to Dr. Gaines-Ross who bravely and successfully takes on, notwithstanding the post Enron anti-CEO environment, the hypersensitive issue of CEO reputation. Yes, agrees Gaines-Ross, being a high profile, ego obsessed CEO is asking for trouble and is to be avoided like the plague. She refuses, however, to engage in the now fashionable tendency toward unrestrained CEO bashing, preferring instead a reasoned, astute and carefully researched analysis of the CEO's role.

While adding her voice to those who deride media hyped personalities, what she refers to as big "C" Celebrity CEOs, she cautions that old fashioned leadership is still desirable. When engaged in by talented CEOs, it may, indeed should, lead to the creation of an executive persona. Such a persona need not require media exposure and is entirely compatible with sound corporate practice. Such persona bearing CEOs are small "c" celebrated CEOs, who "by dint of strong leadership, discriminating vision, force of character and other admirable traits become celebrated by their employees, their industry, their peers, and occasionally (though not necessarily) even the media for jobs well done."

Gaines-Ross' book amounts to a much needed, intellectually honest warning not to let the anti-CEO backlash go too far. Refusing to jump blindly onto the anti-CEO bandwagon as have so many business pundits, she stresses that executive leadership is still necessary and if effectively and ethically rendered is something which should not be hidden under the rug but promoted openly. In pursuing the cause of sound, old fashioned corporate leadership, she lays out a roadmap, based on original research, on how CEOs may repair their reputations, stressing among other things the need to communicate internally, build a management team, develop a thematic stamp and a vision.

She deserves immense praise not only for her honest appraisal of the role of CEOs in today's business environment but also for presenting an immensely practical and useful format on how to lead ethically, energetically and effectively.

A major, original addition to the literature on leadership and reputation ... no doubt about it.

We have all been witness to the lionisation, and thereafter, the demonisation of CEOs.

As we watched some of the finest corporate reputations bite the dust, we also became acutely aware that there is no 'secret sauce' to brew a fine reputation. Yet there are some basic principles that apply and that is what this book sheds light on.

CEO Capital is not about impression management or building personality cults. Nor is it a simple 1-2-3 recipe for assembling a chief executive's reputation. It is for serious business professionals who recognise and honour the immensity of the chief executive's job, especially in today's complex business environment.

Over the past few years, Burson-Marsteller has contributed significantly to the body of knowledge through a series of research studies looking at CEO reputation and its contribution to broader corporate reputation. Those studies have found a significant - and growing - correlation between the credibility of the chief executive and reputation of his or her organisation.

The principal architect of that research is Leslie Gaines-Ross, B-M's chief knowledge officer, who joined the firm after serving as director of marketing and communication at Fortune magazine, where she was closely involved in the publication's Most Admired Corporations research.

In the book, Gaines-Ross builds on Burson's research and lays out a roadmap for CEOs who understand the increasing importance of both personal and institutional credibility. CEO reputation, according to this book, is dependent upon three 'C' factors -credibility, code of ethics, and communicating internally - and two 'M' factors - attracting and retaining a quality management team and motivating and inspiring employees.

So important are the CM factors that each one surpassed even wealth creation in importance according to the 2001 Burson-Marsteller study, she writes. Evidently, financial performance is important, but simply not enough.

Gaines-Ross makes a compelling case that building CEO capital is not about ego, but about good, old-fashioned leadership. And she shows that it has payoffs for the organisation. But before embarking on what Gaines-Ross calls "the CEO capital model of building reputation," the CEO must buy into the importance of building his or her personal credibility.

The most practical section of the book, based upon B-M's 'Seasons of a CEO' research, provides a roadmap for a new CEO seeking to build credibility inside and outside the organisation.

That task begins in the countdown period, before he or she takes office. The countdown is a time to cherish -a time when a CEO may quietly plan for the future, contact key shareholders, research the company, and do all those innumerable tasks for which there will be so little time later, says Gaines-Ross.

The first 100 days of a CEO's tenure are critical, and a time when the focus should be inward rather than on external audiences.

The media should be low on the list of priorities for a new CEO during the first 100 days, says Gaines-Ross. Media exposure without full opportunity to gain a thorough understanding of corporate workings is an invitation to disaster.

As the first year progresses, the focus slowly shifts. The CEO must establish a unique corporate persona in which the CEO's every action and deed reflects in some way the corporate values the CEO wishes to advance and the vision the CEO wishes to instil.

The first step is to engage in what Gaines-Ross calls "intense learning," from customers, from analysts, from alumni, from employees. Then, she says, CEOs can cultivate a persona, establishing those values that will drive the company, articulating a code of ethics.

The second year of a CEO's tenure can be even more challenging because this is when the change really gets binding and the stakeholders, including the board of directors, start to expect real, measurable results.

The CEO needs to demonstrate the company's new strategic vision, put stakeholders at ease - show them both financial results and a unified management team - and start to plan for the future.

The CEO also needs to demonstrate what Gaines-Ross calls thought leadership, something that "distinguishes and differentiates a company from its competitors... Thought leadership often breaks with business or industry convention, astonishes if not startles. Thought leadership reflects on the company and builds CEO capital."

Gaines-Ross ends the book with two appeals. The first is for a longer CEO timetable. B-M's research has shown that all stakeholders expect more of CEOs, and faster. But "the trend toward increasingly shorter CEO tenures is undermining business productivity and focus," says Gaines-Ross.

"Fewer CEOs seem to make it past the five-quarter mark and even fewer beyond their three-year anniversary. Such instability irrevocably and adversely affects a company's reputation and destiny. Chief executive departures have substantially adverse consequences, affecting too many employees, customers, partners, and investors." The second appeal is related, a call for a longer-term view.

This is substantial addition to the literature of our profession, a manifesto supported by compelling original research and informed by intelligent, sympathetic analysis. It is also a rare book about public relations that preaches not to the choir but to the choirmasters.

(The reviewer is Principal and Founder, Genesis Public Relations, India)

Until I read this book I did not realize the importance of communicating the 'how','why', 'when' of each executive decision. Given the crisis environment dominating corporate America today, I think CEOs need to add another word to their title and become chief executive and communications officers. Without communicating and finding their voice as leaders, I think CEOs will have a hard time earning public trust. This book provides a great blue print for understanding the commotion we read about in the papers.

In CEO Capital, Leslie Gaines-Ross has written an insightful and enlightening book for those who want to increase the positive visibility and reputation of their CEO. It is a surprise to this reviewer that more books have not been written on the subject of how to master the art of building your reputation when both your own personal future and corporate future may be resting on it.

The celebrity hungry society of today looks to corporate movers and shakers especially the CEO as icons of a particular company. Think about Lee Iacocca, Jack Welch, Richard Branson, Bill Gates and Steve Jobs to mention just a few. How much of your opinion of these companies (and notice I don't even have to mention which companies they run/ran) is based on your perceived image of the CEO? The phrase `you are your company' has never been more true, especially in the post Enron & Arthur Anderson world. How has your opinion of Enron changed now that you know more about Jeff Skilling and Andrew Fastow? Despite any fraud at Enron being committed by the few and not the masses of the organization, our entire perception of Enron has shifted to the iconic few.

Part I of CEO Capital is a contextual look at CEO capital: what it is, where it comes from and how it can be built. Gaines-Ross draws us in by looking at the CEO Effect by citing some examples as far back as 1985 starting with Roberto Goizueta, then CEO of Coca-Cola and the whole `New Coke' revolt, that could have been a fatal disaster for the company. But Goizueta, trading on his CEO capital, not only avoided being removed but was able to bring the company back even stronger.

Part II is most interesting and is centered on the five stages postulated in the CEO capital model which take you by the hand, and step by step go through best practices (ed: hate that term but in this situation it is apt), principles and linkages to factors affecting the building of CEO capital. As the book says, `the reader may be left with the impression that the stages read almost like a manual on how to lead a company. This perception is quite acceptable and entirely reasonable because nothing is more conducive to building CEO capital than building a strong, high-performing company. Any similarity between the two is entirely intentional.' Which is indeed how it reads, but in doing so, broadens the scope of the content to be relevant to a wider audience of business managers and executives who may not be leading Fortune 500 type companies (yet!). In fact, they may be the very leaders who will gain most from this book, since they are not too arrogant to learn and may gain the most from any capital building opportunities presented to them.

Chapters in the book include guidance on the Countdown (the time before the CEO-elect takes office), the First One Hundred days and the First Year, and then of course the second year in office which is always much harder than the first.

Gaines-Ross has written a truly pioneering work - overall an excellent book on a little-written about subject. The book is practically written and you should not let its somewhat `user manual' style detract you from putting its advice into action. Recommended for CEOs and CEOs to-be of all sized companies, as well as other corporate officers and marketing/PR professionals who may guide along the process.