Reviews

Book Review: Japanamerica

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Japanamerica: How Japanese Pop Culture Has Invaded The U.S
By Roland Kelts

ISBN-10: 140398476X
ISBN-13: 978-1403984760

PROS: A breezy, readable, yet informative look at how Japanese pop culture has become part of US culture, mixing theories, the big picture, and personal stories.

CONS: The book's approach makes it more useful for getting the big picture than direct research.  Some theories may seem odd or vague.

SUMMARY: An interesting and thought-provoking book that can help you get a good picture of how Japanese culture has become prominent in the US, why it may have happened, and the future.

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Book Review: How to Position Yourself as the Obvious Expert

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How to Position Yourself as the Obvious Expert
In 90 Days or Less Without Spending a Fortune on Advertising
by Elsom Eldridge Jr. and Mark L. Eldridge

ISBN-10: 0972094164
ISBN-13: 978-0972094160

PROS: Straightforward, information-dense.  Has quotes, ideas, and examples from a lot of professionals.

CONS: Focus limits the book.  Some exercises not as useful as others.  Erratic consistency.

SUMMARY: A must-read book on self-promotion that is useful to anyone looking to promote themselves, network, and connect.  It is focused on consultants and coaches, but is actually useful to most any professional.

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Book Review: The Management Myth

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The Management Myth: Why the "Experts" Keep Getting it Wrong
by Matthew Stewart

ISBN-10: 0393065537
ISBN-13: 978-0393065534

PROS: Witty, intelligent, and well-written.  Has an excellent sense of history and cause-effect.  Personal anecdotes mixed in with historical reference help illustrate points.

CONS: At times difficult to read for anyone not acquainted with business and management processes.

SUMMARY: A must-read book for those of you in management, dealing with management, and interested in business theory.

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