Security Books

In this work, Rebecca Herold deftly lays out a framework that is easy to follow and comprehensive. She has skilfully managed to compile material that would otherwise take a significant amount of research, time and work to collect, and has created tools for the reader that are easily modified and transferred to any industry and indeed any country.

Ms. Herold consistently produces high quality written information centered around current and often complex subjects. The kernel of what she offers is the rare ability to present these topics as easy to understand and enjoyable to read.

As I live and work in Canada I was concerned that this book may be too centered on American laws and methodologies. I could not have been further off the mark. The methodology meticulously laid out by Ms. Herold could be applied in any country on the planet and ensure that whoever is following its plan is successful in their delivery.

In my 17+ years in Information engineering, security and education I have only kept a handful of texts on my bookshelf. This will be one of them.

If your organization is considering a security or privacy awareness program, this book will pay for itself many times over. I am not aware of any other resource that includes this much material about the art and science of awareness and training. Although this book is over 500 pages long, I found it easy to jump to specific chapters to get just the information I needed. The main chapters cover every aspect of program development including: planning, establishing a business case, budgeting, selling management, audience selection, material design and development, implementation, and measurement. Chapter 10 alone - which maps over 50 different awareness topics to various job roles - should save an organization thousands of dollars in program planning. And don't overlook the Appendices. Almost every sample form and worksheet you would need is available as an appendix. The assessment questionnaires alone should save dozens of hours of development. Definitely one of best security awareness investments your organization will ever make.

I am not a friend nor acquaintance of Ms. Herold. I believe this is a good book on Awareness Training and would recommend it to professionals in that field and to security professionals contemplating an awareness training program. I believe the book has especially good material on Legal and Regulatory requirements for training. However, it is too long at 515 pages. For a training program, the best bet is to collaborate with corporate training departments; security awareness training is no different from all the other types of awareness training. There is no point in security professionals reinventing the wheel on training methods. A collaborative approach will yield faster results than reading and understanding everything that is in this book.

I'll begin by saying that I have two broad comments about Ms. Herold's new book, Managing an Information Security and Privacy Awareness and Training Program. First, it may be the definitive book on the topic and seems to have enough meat to be the definitive book on the practice of information security in general. It approaches the profession in the right way: people-oriented. That is rare and important. Second, I actually read it from cover to cover - a rare thing for me. Professional books usually find their ways to my reference library and are used mostly for that purpose, not for general reading.

In the over twenty years I have been in the information security profession I have seen a lot of approaches to managing the security of organizational information. There is one common thread that ties all of those approaches together. The successful ones address the people who use and manage that information. Technology simply is a collection of tools to assist the information assurance manager with the task. It has been said that there are management solutions to technical problems but no technical issues to management problems. Ms. Herold addresses this homily head-on and does it with style, personality and skill.

Her experience shows as does the commentary from two icons in our profession, Donn Parker and Hal Tipton. If you have any questions about whether you should buy this book, read their comments in the Preface and Forward.

I have known Becky for many years and I respect her skill, experience and ability to present important issues clearly, concisely and understandably. Her latest book does all that and more.

If I was told that I was moving to a new office and could take only two boxes of books with me from my library, I would fill both with technical books but I would leave space for the only two general books on information assurance I will ever need. One is "The Computer Security Handbook" edited by my good friend and long-time colleague Dr. Mich Kabay. The other would have to be "Managing an Information Security and Privacy Awareness and Training Program". It would take more than the two boxes to cover technical issues in security, but I could put Mich's and Becky's books in my brief case. Then I would have the perfect security library.

This book is highly recommended for any information assurance professional (or aspiring professional), manager with information assurance responsibilities, or training coordinator. I'm sure there are others who need this new offering as well, but Amazon only allows so much space for these reviews. I also will be highly recommend this book to our students in the MSIA program at Norwich.

Peter R. Stephenson, PhD, CISSP, CISM, FICAF
Associate Program Director, MSIA
Norwich University

The author introduces her book very eloquently: "I wrote this book to provide a starting point and an all-in-one resource for information security and privacy education practitioners. I incorporated much of the information and knowledge I obtained while working on my MA in computer science and education as applicable to providing education to adult learners. Additionally, I included the same type of information that I've used and found helpful over the years when creating awareness and training programs ... My goal was to provide a more comprehensive resource of everything involved with managing an information security and privacy training and awareness program than I had been able to find - a reference for practitioners to go to when implementing any part of their education program and get ideas that will help them be successful with their own program."

The entire `lifecycle' of a security awareness program is covered from program design (e.g. why awareness is important, legal and regulatory requirements and even `how not to do it') through program delivery and execution (getting started, gaining executive sponsorship and budget, topics to cover, methods of delivery/communications and motivational techniques, incorporating awareness into job responsibilities etc.) to program management (hints about planning, controlling and reporting progress) and program review (how to check that your program remains on-track and effective).

The book may appear overwhelming to someone just starting out on their information security and privacy awareness although it is not compulsory to read the entire book cover-to-cover in one sitting (tempting though that may be!). The chapter on `Getting started' is recommended reading, with details of how to identify key contacts, review the organization's existing approach to awareness and training, and a handy road-map that would serve as a good high level project plan. For more experienced information security professionals, and especially those considering or tasked with `doing awareness', this book is a must-read. Even seasoned security awareness practitioners would likely learn new things from this book, at least I did and suspect my copy will become well-thumbed in the months and years ahead.

The coverage is reasonably even throughout with plenty of meaty content in every section. The writing style is engaging, quite easy to read yet at the same time stimulating and thought provoking. The book is crammed full of good ideas, not just theoretical concepts but solid practical advice that can be put to use immediately. It really is hard to think of any way the book could have been better - praise indeed if you have read any of my reviews of other security awareness books.

This really *is* the definitive guide - a wonderful book for practitioners in our field, one I'm happy to recommend unreservedly.

Dr. Hafez focuses in the intifada campaign of suicide bombing for his research on motives for suicide bombers. He outlined the motives of the organization's that prepare, support and dispatch the bomber as well as a different one that that of the bomber, which is analyzed. The community/ society motives for support the campaigns is also analyzed. Since I have read the majority of the reference use by the author, I need to say that his work is a valuable one for this issue, easily read, short and precise, and a likely and useful framework.

Knowledgeably written by Mohammed M. Hafez (Visiting Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Missouri, Kansas City) Manufacturing Human Bombs: The Making Of Palestinian Suicide Bombers is an insightful and chilling study of the Palestinian suicide bombers during the Al-Aqsa intifada that began in the year 2000 and continues to be a primary weapon among Islamic fundamentalists. Providing western readers with an in-depth understanding of the deaths, war, killings, and reasoning and rationale to these terrifying and seemingly indiscriminate attacks, Manufacturing Human Bombs creates an intricate detailing of Middle East mentality, lifestyle, honor, and progression of those who elect to become suicide bombers and those who elect to employ them. Manufacturing Human Bombs is very highly recommended reading to all students of the Middle Eastern culture, the suicidal extremes of the bombers themselves, the attitudes of the victimized society that breeds them, and the issues surrounding phenomena of suicide bombers in countries such as Iraq, Israel, Chechnya, and Afghanistan.

Knowledgeably written by Mohammed M. Hafez (Visiting Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Missouri, Kansas City) Manufacturing Human Bombs: The Making Of Palestinian Suicide Bombers is an insightful and chilling study of the Palestinian suicide bombers during the Al-Aqsa intifada that began in the year 2000 and continues to be a primary weapon among Islamic fundamentalists. Providing western readers with an in-depth understanding of the deaths, war, killings, and reasoning and rationale to these terrifying and seemingly indiscriminate attacks, Manufacturing Human Bombs creates an intricate detailing of Middle East mentality, lifestyle, honor, and progression of those who elect to become suicide bombers and those who elect to employ them. Manufacturing Human Bombs is very highly recommended reading to all students of the Middle Eastern culture, the suicidal extremes of the bombers themselves, the attitudes of the victimized society that breeds them, and the issues surrounding phenomena of suicide bombers in countries such as Iraq, Israel, Chechnya, and Afghanistan.

Knowledgeably written by Mohammed M. Hafez (Visiting Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Missouri, Kansas City) Manufacturing Human Bombs: The Making Of Palestinian Suicide Bombers is an insightful and chilling study of the Palestinian suicide bombers during the Al-Aqsa intifada that began in the year 2000 and continues to be a primary weapon among Islamic fundamentalists. Providing western readers with an in-depth understanding of the deaths, war, killings, and reasoning and rationale to these terrifying and seemingly indiscriminate attacks, Manufacturing Human Bombs creates an intricate detailing of Middle East mentality, lifestyle, honor, and progression of those who elect to become suicide bombers and those who elect to employ them. Manufacturing Human Bombs is very highly recommended reading to all students of the Middle Eastern culture, the suicidal extremes of the bombers themselves, the attitudes of the victimized society that breeds them, and the issues surrounding phenomena of suicide bombers in countries such as Iraq, Israel, Chechnya, and Afghanistan.

Knowledgeably written by Mohammed M. Hafez (Visiting Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Missouri, Kansas City) Manufacturing Human Bombs: The Making Of Palestinian Suicide Bombers is an insightful and chilling study of the Palestinian suicide bombers during the Al-Aqsa intifada that began in the year 2000 and continues to be a primary weapon among Islamic fundamentalists. Providing western readers with an in-depth understanding of the deaths, war, killings, and reasoning and rationale to these terrifying and seemingly indiscriminate attacks, Manufacturing Human Bombs creates an intricate detailing of Middle East mentality, lifestyle, honor, and progression of those who elect to become suicide bombers and those who elect to employ them. Manufacturing Human Bombs is very highly recommended reading to all students of the Middle Eastern culture, the suicidal extremes of the bombers themselves, the attitudes of the victimized society that breeds them, and the issues surrounding phenomena of suicide bombers in countries such as Iraq, Israel, Chechnya, and Afghanistan.

Dean LeBaron has crafted an insightful volume that is part travelogue, part cultural analysis, and part memoir. The resulting book will bring you up-close and personal with the forces that shaped the two great cultures of Russia and China. The text is adorned with vignettes, anecdotes, parables and humor that keep the read as entertaining as it is weighty. We from getAbstract strongly recommend this book to anyone looking to understand two countries that have greatly influenced the last century of human history and will play a central role in the next.

This first-hand account of some of the most momentous events of the twentieth century is an extremely compelling read. The account is lucid and engaging, but it's the analysis that takes it over the top. It was a pleasure to read.

An amazing tale. If you read no other book about the transformation of Russia and China to free-market economies, make it this one. Mao, Marx, and the Market is a true-to-life account that will entrall you from beginning to end. It is like no other published on the subject. Read it to gain an entirely fresh perspective on capitalist earthquakes that shook -- and continue to shake -- these two great nations.

I'm a graduate student, earning my MBA at Stanford, and I just have one point to make: Dean LeBaron deserves all of our attention and respect. Here's a man who risked his (considerable) reputation to help transform the economies of Russia and China. And unlike the most folks these days (dare I mention Enron), he wasn't in it just for the money. LeBaron is a thoughtful, insightful, highly original analyst. Read this book and you will discover, as he writes, that "nothing is as contrary as reality." I can't wait for his next book.

This book is a true financial thriller. And it is as insightful as it is exciting. Highly recommended to all!

Title is misleading. Trotsky tries to point out how the state reacts to individual terrorism (political assasinations). His condemnation of terrorism by both the state and those who call themselves from the left is a wonderful reader.

This collection of articles by Russian revolutionary leader Leon Trotsky is an important contribution to the discussion on how to fight against an inhumane and brutal ruling order. It discusses the social roots of terrorism, and argues strongly that it is an obstacle to developing the organized leadership necessary for millions of toilers to take destiny in their own hands and transform society for the good of all humanity. Trotsky bases his observations on the long history of terror in Czarist Russia, and counterposes it to the successful mass revolutionary struggle led by the Bolsheviks that did topple the Czarist regime, established a workers and peasants government and overthrow capitalism.

This pamphlet also includes two articles from the 1930s. One explains why Trotsky and other revolutionary opponents of the Stalinist dictatorship that developed in the Soviet Union did not resort to terror. Another discusses Herschel Grynszpan, a Jewish youth who assassinated a Nazi official in Paris in 1938. Trotsky identifies with the emotions that led to Grynzspan�s act and calls for workers protests to stop the French government from executing him. But he argues �to all those capable of self-sacrifice in the struggle against despotism and bestiality: Seek another road! Not the lone revolutionary avenger but only a great revolutionary mass movement can free the oppressed.�

Other valuable writings by Trotsky on this question include: �How the Workers in Austria Should Fight Hitler,� �Individual Terror and Mass Terror,� and �A Revolutionary, not a Terrorist� all from Writings of Leon Trotsky, 1935-36. See also, Their Morals and Ours and History of the Russian Revolution, by Trotsky, and The Changing Face of U.S. Politics, by Jack Barnes.

Most people are concerned with finding eternal truths. Certainly preservation of the only form of intelligent life we know of is a noble aim, in other words the survival of our species. Yet something horrible happened in human history about six thousand years ago, and we became "a house divided against ourselves." And as long as society remains unjust, rebels who fight for freedom and equality will be defending ourselves against slanders of violence. Real revolutionaries abhor and denounce indiscriminant terrorism, because it is both immoral and counterproductive. September 11, 2001, was a classic case in point. Even though the choice of targets laid bare the World Trade Center and the Pentagon as monuments to ruthless avarice and violence, such acts do nothing whatsoever to unite or mobilize the exploited in their own liberation. But they DO however immediately mobilize the exploiters to deepen oppression and violence: Kabul was bombed that same night, and both Afghanistan and Iraq were devastated by wars, and the White House frantically scours for its next target. Trotsky denounced the grotesque hypocrisy of those who sermonize pacifism to the exploited while managing to not notice that the wealthy employ us to kill each other to protect their ownership of resources and manufacturing. Consider this book as a companion to Trotsky's pamphlet, Marxism and Terrorism, with a cogent explanation on why individual terrorism relegates workers to the role of spectators while opening their movement to provocation and victimization.

... This collection of essays by one of the leading revolutionaries of the 20th century provides a much-needed critical perspective on terrorism. Not from a moralizing point of view, but to show that by relying on individual �heroic� acts of violence like assassinations of government leaders, terrorist tactics ignore and devalue the masses of people as the most important agent of their own liberation. Though his examples are drawn from Hapsburg Austria, Tsarist Russia and Nazi Germany, when you read his words, you can easily see the relevance to liberation struggles taking place today from Palestine to Ireland to the Philippines. I especially like the way that Trotsky sympathizes with the hatred of the gross injustice that breeds terrorism, but at the same time explains that individual terrorist tactics are doomed to fail.

In "Marxism and Terrorism," Trotsky disparages people (mostly Anarchists) who seek to bring about the revolution prematurely by staging acts of "terrorism" such as assassinations of factory-owning capitalists and local politicians, or the bombing of factories. He says that such actions only move public opinion in favor of the capitalists, while the assassinated persons are easily and quickly replaced, and the oppressive social system itself remains largely unaffected. In Trotsky's own words, here is the situation which follows from an overt terrorist attack by an angry member of the working class: "The smoke from the explosion clears away, the successor of the murdered minister makes his appearance, life again settles into the old rut, the wheel of capitalist exploitation turns as before; only police repression grows more savage and brazen" (p. 10). Trotsky's perspective--which is also, in this case, Marx's--is that history is inevitably moving toward communism all on its own. The more the workers are exploited, the greater will be the number of people who side with them. Eventually, according to Marx and Trotsky, worker exploitation will become so bad that a critical mass of the people will see the "true face" of the for-profit economic system, and will take over the state in order to put in place a different economic system where everyone has ownership. Trying to speed up this inevitable historical occurrence by staging small-scale terrorist attacks is not just ineffective, but actually counterproductive, says Trotsky.

Probably the most striking thing about these writings, for me, was the realization of just how badly original Marxist thought has been distorted by the Latin American revolutionaries, beginning with Castro and Guevara. When you read this, it's almost as if Trotsky is speaking out directly *against* these groups, albeit 40+ years before they ever came to exist! The Latin American theory of GPP ("Prolonged Popular War") and Guevara's theory of FOCO warfare were both built on the idea that a tiny group of determined Marxist individuals can successfully foment a revolution. How? By taking to the countryside and staging hit-and-run attacks on government outposts (which is in fact exactly what was done by Castro's Cuban rebels). But such attacks almost perfectly fit Trotsky's definition of "terrorism," which as already noted he thought to be entirely counterproductive.

In a single twenty minute sitting, this tiny volume really helped to consolidate all that I've learned about Marx and Marxism over the past couple of months. I *highly* recommend it as a starting point for the student of history who is interested in understanding Marxism (which every student of history should be). It may be the best $3.50 I've ever spent on a book!

Edited to add: another book you should check out for concise exposition of radical political theories such as socialism and anarchism is The Great Political Theories, Vol. 2, by Michael Curtis. It's succinct and it's only $7.99 on Amazon. It's also considered somewhat of a classic for introducing undergraduate students to political philosophy. And a free online resource that is great for introducing Anarchism is the Anarchist FAQ (just google "Anarchist FAQ" and you'll see it, it's published by over a hundred different websites).

Some kids like cuddly bears. Some like fuzzy blankies. Some like the comfort of a binky. But Mary isn't like other kids. Instead of a bear, a blankie or a binkie, she carts around a lamp.

Mary had a little lamp--
The bendy, gooseneck kind.
And everywhere that Mary went
She dragged the lamp behind.

We love this fresh take on the classic nursery rhyme. What's especially fun about this zippy, silly book is Mary's attitude. This perky little individualist doesn't give a flying fig what others think of her appliance. Her teacher scolds her, the kids tease her and her parents worry. None of this matters to Mary. She simply likes her lamp, and that's that!

When Mary's parents, sure that she has some strange affliction, take her to the doctor, Lechner delivers one of our all time favorite lines:

Their doctor said, "I've never seen
so puzzling a condition.
But lamps are not my specialty
You need an electrician."

Staake's brightly colored illustrations use simple shapes and lines to create a lively, graphic style. Sure to be a favorite at storytimes everywhere--this book will light up your libraries!

This book is actually fun for adults to read. Its rhymes are clever and the plays on words are creative. Each verse follows the Mary had a Little Lamb rhythm in unexpected and hilarious ways. The weird, entertaining graphics add another layer of fun. My 3-year-old loves it, and I honestly enjoy reading it to her every night. Highly recommended.

Mary Had a Little Lamp is a rhyming children's picturebook that subverts the popular nursery rhyme "Mary had a little lamb." Instead of being about a girl and her beloved lamb, Mary Had a Little Lamp is about a girl and her beloved... lamp. Everywhere that Mary goes, the lamp goes too; she is attached to it despite her parents' fussing, and is never embarrassed about it. Then one summer, things change: "She spent the summer swimming / and canoeing, and she found / That she could have a lot of fun / Without the lamp around." Mary learns to leave the lamp at home, and gains a new attachment - to her toaster! The exuberant bordering on silly illustrations add the right tone of exaggerated humor to this playful picturebook.

I brought this home from the library and it is so funny. The pictures are hillarious too. Very simple rhyme style, you can read it like Mary Had a Little Lamb style too. Its got a funny ending. A wonderful childrens book all around, kids love it.

This book is absolutely adorable, and overall a perfect children's book. Catchy and simple enough for children to read over and over again, and sophisticated and clever enough that you won't mind reading it. The illustrations compliment the zany, yet touching text wonderfully--my favorite touch is the lamp tucked into its own lamp bed, and the rhymes are really remarkable...and stay in your head. Overall, a great book that should be a classic.

There are many consultants in the financial services industry who can help you. However, very few are also actively producing themselves. Derrick Kinney is one of them. He writes from experience and by following his ideas, you will master the media and build an impenetrable brand in your market. Read the book. Implement the ideas. Take good care of your clients. If you follow those three steps, your business will soar.

I've been a financial planner for eighteen years and have read a lot of books on developing business. Master The Media is, hands-down, the best I've read. After, implementing Derrick's ideas I had a half-page article written about me, several short pieces in the 'Professionals on the Move' section of the paper, and a TV appearance in studio. More importantly, this has resulted in new clients and several calls for appointments. Derrick not only provides everything a financial planner needs to break into the media but he also has excellent chapters on how to land and maintain the new high net worth clients you get from your PR work. His methods have become one of the main ways I will market my firm.

Bill Garrett, CFP®, CEA®, CCPS

When done correctly, public relations can have an enormous positive impact on your business. Derrick Kinney's new book, "Master the Media to Attract Your Ideal Clients" is THE book to help you dramatically increase your income. I highly recommend it!

Derrick Kinney shares his marketing brilliance throughout this invaluable resource. This book is packed with creative, sensible and straightforward "action point" strategies that demonstrate how to master your local media right now. For the professional that desires maximum exposure, this is a must read!

As a senior business consultant, keeping in tune with business literature is a must. Rarely is a release worthy of such accolades. Derrick Kinney has written a literary masterpiece. Mr. Kinney's approach is clear, concise, and an absolute must read for those businesses attempting to master their media presence. Mr. Kinney's savvy approach for the financial professional is multi-dimensional, yet not weighed down in its intellectual approach. His personal success is a testament to this full proof strategy of mastering the media. This book is not a "must read," it is "required reading."

This book is well worth the price. Much information regarding network configuration and network logs examination, which is highly needed in performing investigations in todays complicated syndicate

Very good resource for network forensics. Easy to read and full of good nuggets of information. Worth the price of admission!

The book is about the daunting task to get evidence from computers suited with the Windows Operating System. This book is split in three parts. The first part is to get a basic understanding of how things work and what kind of vulnerabilities there are on a typical windows machine. Rootkits are touched lightly although there is some information to get a basic understanding of this complex and threatening technology there could be expected more.

The second part is about analysing a Windows Computer. Tools and techniques are discussed here and some explanation about the various filesystems. There could be less focus on the "EnCase" suite in my opinion.

The last, and in my opinion best part, is about about analysing logs, logparser and how to make your job much easier in gathering information and evidence from a windows machine. A great part with a wealth of useful tips and tricks. Even if you're not directly involved with forensics.

So the authors of this book discussed the basics of foresic investigation and security techniques and also the reasoning behind them. Overall they did a good job. They are not afraid to point out some other interesting booktitles to get even more knowledge about a specific topic. However there could be less focus on "EnCase" and more detailed information about certain topics such as rootkits.

Rob Faber CISSP, CEH, MCSE
Infrastructure architect / Sr. Security consultant
The Netherlands

This book skillfully combines real world network security with law enforcement investigative techniques to deliver a text which will enable you to make the right decisions based on the unique circumstances and facts of each event you are called on to investigate.

I consider this book a must have for anyone in network administration, network security or on a computer emergency response team. The techniques and information contained within are, without a doubt, missing from almost all other books and training you have received.

As a law enforcement officer, I've often found myself frustrated by books that cover incident response, but never discuss law enforcement involvement, except as an afterthought. While I understand that it's important for corporate and internal investigators to have this type of information, it's refreshing to find a book that talks about the law enforcement response to an computer crime incident.

I've had the privilege of attending classes instructed by both of these authors. One of the things that impressed me about their classes is that they were able to break down complicated technical concepts into terms that cops can understand. They continue to do that in this book.

Computer crime investigators need to add this book to their libraries. I'd say it's a must have.

I liked the way Handel compares the classical thoughts of Clausewitz and Sun Tzu. This a good way of understanding the fundamental similarities and differences in approach to war the West and East have.

This book is a comprehensive analysis of classical military thought. Although some would argue that this book is for military scholars, I beg to differ, and, heartily suggest this book to any First Year Student of Military Studies. It will greatly assist you in your comparison and analysis of theory and theorists and will also give you a comprehensive understanding of the universal logic of the principles and tenets of war.
This is a great book.

Dr. Terry Tucker
Combined Security and Transition Command-Afghanistan

is how I would describe Handel's 'Masters of War'. This however should not deter the keen reader from purchasing the book as it is indeed a wonderful, clear and interesting read.

In the course of his analysis, Handel sets out to compare and contrast the different schools of thought that 'the greats' developed, with particular attention being paid to Sun Tzu and Von Clausewitz. Perhaps this is where the text comes into its own for the academic. If one was to consider writing a study on the conduct and role of the military in this day and age, this book brings not only Sun Tzu and Von Clausewitz, but also Jomini and Machiavelli into focus. The student will hardly require a more comprehensive guide to different schools of thought for the construction of their essays.

In conclusion therefore, I would reaffirm my belief that this text would prove invaluable for any classical military analyst trying to find a text helping and perhaps reducing the amount of time devoted to sifting through Sun Tzu's 'Art of War' and Von Clausewitz's 'On War'. However, taken out of this context, although highly readable, it is perhaps beyond the requirement of the casual reader whom might be better served reading abridged texts of the originals first.

Michael Handel's third and final version of his "Masters Of War" may be the most accessible analysis of classical military thought available to the military professional or academic. Handel's patient, methodical, side-by-side textual analysis of the works of Sun Tzu and Clausewitz overcomes the deceptive simplicity of Sun Tzu's precepts and the equally deceptive dense verbiage of Clausewitz's "On War." The result is an enlightening exploration of what may be mankind's most complex and most dangerous collective activity. For all its wastage and terror, war continues to be a final arbiter of the destiny of nations and ideologies.

Handel's work is an intellectually challenging read designed for the military professional or academic. He examines important concepts such as the centers of gravity, the correlation of ends and means, and the relationship of military and political objectives through a compare and contrast analysis of the writings of Sun Tzu and Clausewitz. The writings of some other authorities such as Mao and Jomini are cited where especially relevant. Handel's prose is straightforward. He uses examples from a broad range of military history to illustrate his points.

The author, who died in 2001, completed his revisions for this edition before the start of the Global War on Terrorism. Nevertheless, both classical military thought and Handel's analysis continue to be relevant.

This book is very highly recommended for the mid-grade military professional, especially for those studying at the intermediate service college level, and for the military academic seeking a broader understanding of the operational and strategic levels of war.

The best side-by-side comparison of Sun Tzu, Clausewitz, and Jomini strategic thought one can find. Included is Mao's strategic approach to completely round out classical perspective on war and strategy. The single best reference for understanding the similarities and differences between the masters of strategy.

Although Miriam Wolfe was a victim of terrorism, a victim of official incompetence and bungling that produced catastrophic results, this is not a book about her death. This is a book about her life - a life lost much too soon.

Be sure to have plenty of tissues and hankies nearby while reading this book, for you'll surely need them. For Miriam's story will touch you to the depths of your very soul and beyond. Miriam was a gift bestowed from heaven and had heavenly gifts of compassion, love, and understanding bestowed upon her. She was a truly gifted and unique individual and I'm deeply sorry I didn't know her, for if I had I would have been truly blessed. So many crime and terrorism victims are swept under the rug because it is too "politically undesirable" for the powers that be in the international community to seek due recourse for the terrorist crimes committed by such states that sponsor them. I can't understand this logic - why is it "politically undesirabe" to seek justice for the innocent, to speak loudly for those who no longer have a voice? It took almost 12 years to bring the 2 fiends responsible for the Pan Am 103 bombing to trial. Even then, 1 was acquitted and the other sentenced to 20 years in prison. Can anyone justly believe that this is proper punishment for the taking of 270 innocent lives?

But this book does not deal with these political and diplomatic inadequacies, though Rosemary gives a brief depicition of these. She wants to talk about her beloved only child Miriam. While Miriam was not famous or well known, she possessed admirable stellar qualities. As human as the rest of us and therefore imperfect, she was indeed a young woman who saw potential in goodness and beauty, who placed real value on life's simplest joys, who viewed the world and all its sweetnesses through eyes which saw the glass as half full rather than half empty. Do all of you cowardly terrorists follow this concept?

Rosemary describes her and the rest of her family's reactions to this appalling deed in a heartsickeningly candid guise that will transport the reader from the snugness of their own lives into the bleakness caused by such random and unmitigated acts of incomprehensible evil. I dare fellow readers to skip through this story. You can't, for in a world still reeling from the ghastliness and horrors of 11 September 2001, it strikes too close to home. For terrorists don't care who they destroy.

But how you live is more important than how you die. Miriam's afterglow is great, for her name and her soul endures. There are now scholarships and memorials awarded in her name. Even in death, she's blessing people's lives and spirits with gifts given in the name of goodness. She's still helping those less fortunate than herself. What a wonderful legacy. Hatred combined with a few ounces of Semtex plastic explosives can't possibly destroy that.

Miriam's Gift was one of the most moving reads I have experienced in a long time, deeply rewarding. Rosemary Mild has created a loving portrait of her daughter Miriam, who perished on Pan Am 103. I am so sorry that Miriam, and her fellow passengers, lost their lives due to the selfish, hateful acts of terrorism. This book has inspired me to try to find joy in daily life, even if it is difficult. It was one of the saddest books I ever read, yet I found myself smiling at the memories of Miriam the author recounted. Thank you Mrs. Mild for sharing Miriam with the rest of us. And thank you Miriam.

Rosemary Mild has written a wonderful tribute to her very much loved daughter Miriam. Miriam at aged 20 years was murdered when Pan Am flight 103 crashed over Lockerbie. Rosemary carefully recalls Miriams early years as a baby and their flourishing relationship as she grew into a very fine young woman. She clearly was outstanding and poised on the pinnacle of life itself as fine young student and incredible human being. She was more than a photo much more than a few embroidered lines on a tribute quilt. She was someones daughter and someones friend and had done so much for so many in her short time on this earth. This is a loving book written with compassion and warmth and will move you to tears as it did me as you go through the emotional journey that Rosemary takes you it is clear to see that Miriam was indeed gifted and the world has lost someobne very special.

Having worked as an aviation defense attorney for over 15 years, I wanted to learn more about the plaintiff's side. But I got a lot more than I bargained for when I read "Miriam's Gift: A Mother's Blessing - Then and Now." Rosemary Mild has written an extraordinary memoir -- the layout is perfect, the pictures of Miriam are stunning, not a word in the book is wasted, and the story itself, with its myriad insights, is nothing short of compelling. Without a doubt, it transformed me into a much more undertanding and compasionate person. "Miriam's Gift" is Rosemary's gift to the world. Thank you for your courage, strength, love and incredible writing ability.

One of my first memories of Miriam was during the Children's Theatre of Annapolis's production of "45 MINUTES FROM BROADWAY" when we were 12. I remember us trying to set up Mike Handwerger and Natalie Savignak with Muir and I playing matchmakers. The relays we did across the auditorium floor of Broadneck High School. "Well, he said if she comes over and says hello" and "Well, she said if he says hello first".

I realize this is a bit off the beat-and-path, but MIRIAM'S GIFT has brought back so many wonderful memories for me, it is hard not to remenice and want to share more or Miriam's spirit. Reading the book has allowed me to finally remember Miriam without all of the pain of that night in December, 1988. Though the memories still linger, and the loss is never truly gone, Mrs. Mild has so eloquently interwoven the stories; that right before you want to cry, she shares one of Muir's own writings and you want to laugh. Or better said, you hear Miriam saying, "No more tears. Time to remember, learn, and move on."

Reading the book was like being back in Maryland again in those care-free days before college; before "responsibility". Mrs. Mild recalls a production of MUSIC MAN. I still laugh every time I think of that show. The only time I've ever kicked a dance partner in the head and she still spoke to me! (Mind you, I've never done it since.)

I knew Miriam was an avid writer, but I never knew to what lengths until reading this book. Her words are intelligent, humorous, and insightful. In fact, she gave me a journal which I never touched until I studied in London in 1990. I wrote constantly there. It is one of my most treasured possesions.

Please don't think by what I've said that you have to have actually "known" Miriam to enjoy and appreciate this book. Trust me, by the end, you will; and feel like you have know her all your life.

To Mrs. Mild, I would like to say, "Thank you. Your courage and strength are an inspiration to all who will read this book. Your writing shows a devotion that had no boundries".

To anyone who may read this review, I must say this:

Miriam was talent, friendship, and love. Her spirit will never leave us. After reading this book, she will stay with you and guide you and give you hope and inspiration for anything and everything you do. That is the person she was, and the spirit that will never die.

This is the book ALL entreprenuers need. If you're starting your own business, get your hands on this detailed and helpful book! Cliff and Miles know their stuff, and let you understand what and what NOT to do when starting a business. A truly great book.

MoneyHunt

According to the subtitle, the authors provide "27 New Rules for Creating and Growing a Breakaway Business." How "new" these rules are is subject to honest disagreement but all are sound and can be of great value to anyone who is either preparing to launch a new company or who has launched one which is now experiencing serious problems. Either way, I rate this book highly. It is well-written. The material is anchored in a wealth of real-world experience. For each reader, some rules are probably more relevant than are others...at least today. However, having had extensive recent experience with several start-ups, I can attest that each of the 27 will become relevant at one time or another. I also think this book can be of substantial value to senior-level executives of so-called "mature" companies. Why? Because every company needs what I call a semi-annual or quarterly (if not monthly) "gut check" -- or "reality check" -- which challenges all basic assumptions and premises concerning its vision, mission, priorities, allocation of resources, positioning, core competencies, customer relationships, competition, etc.

The authors devote a separate chapter to each of the "Rules", with the 27 chapters organized within seven Parts:

Part One: Do You Have What It Takes?

Part Two: The Right Idea at the Right Time

Part Three: Markets and Competition

Part Four: People

Part Five: Show Me the Money!

Part Six: The Legal Side of Business

Part Seven: Getting Out -- and Moving On

The book concludes with five Appendices: The MoneyHunt Story, Business Plan Template, Online Audition for MoneyHunt, Legal Dos and Don'ts of Raising Capital, and Demystifying the Business Organization. Although all of the material provided is solid and well-presented, I was especially interested in Appendix A which explains the origin and development of a television program on which entrepreneurs (hunting for money, of course) appear.

Who will derive the greatest benefit from this book? As previously suggested, those who are merely thinking about launching a new company; also those who are preparing to launch a new company; also those who have launched a company now encountering serious problems; also those in a well-established company which may be losing its competitive edge. Here's another category of reader which I also want to include: Those involved in a large organization who must compete aggressively each day for a share of that organization's resources. For them, effective application of the 27 "Rules" will of course require strategies and tactics which are substantially different from those required when "creating and growing" a new enterprise.

The hunt for money never ends because the need for money never ends. Unless you have everything required to achieve your specific objectives, read and then re-read the book. If and when circumstances tempt you to think that you can relax a bit, read it again.

In the typical Moneyhunt "pull no punches" style, the is a candid look at mistakes made in small businesses...and how to avoid them. I especially liked the chapter "During a Gold Rush, Sell Shovels." Wish I'd read this when I started by biz...I'd be a lot richer AND have more hair!

In the process of building my company, I came across this amazing book. Like a map on the business highway, it showed me which roads to travel down, and which to steer clear of. I recommend this book to anyone who has, or is thinking about starting a business.

I went to Crown looking for The New New Thing but bought this book instead. After reading the first rule, I knew I have to buy it but couldn't wait to order from Amazon. Rushed to my car and finished the whole book. The rule on ruthless validates a few plans I had in mind....I never watched the show but extremely grateful that the two gentlemen wrote this book. I know I can never find a great business book like this written in any other language, not in this century.