Review of Betting It All: The Entrepreneurs of Technology (Paperback)

After reading Founders at Work by Jessica Livingston, I dived into an older book by Michael Malone. It has the same concept, i.e. interviews of 16 famous technology entrepreneurs. And it is worth reading.

I loved it so much I put a post on my blog, www.startup-book.com and here are again some quotes form the book that I hope will convince otehr people to become readers:

Larry Ellison about uncertainty:

"When everyone said a relational database would never be commercially viable, the reckless guy said "maybe everyone's wrong - maybe I will take a chance with my career and with my cash." It's not a rational process."

Larry Ellison again about entrepreneurs: "I saw outside managers brought into a lot of companies who then made things dramatically worse. I think I was the best person for the job, I knew the company better than anyone else. I knew the technology, the products and the markets. My heroes are people who do not follow convention. It's difficult to innovate when you are like anybody else."

T. J. Rodgers about Silicon Valley: "One of the things that Silicon Valley successful is companies think just about wanting to succeed. It is also a meritocracy. What makes us so special and different is no Java code or biotechnology, it is that we're truly capitalists. About Europe and Japan: We're moving at light speed relative to the Japanese, who probably still have a committee working on the problem and the Europeans, who are trying to work it out politically. "

Tom Siebel about luck: "If you look at the core of many success stories, it's not great visionaries, not great technology, not great entrepreneurs, it's pretty bright people who found themselves in the right place at the right time and managed not to foul up the opportunity."

Gordon Moore about Silicon Valley. "I really measure the thing that's become Silicon Valley from Shockley in 1956. There were earlier technology companies - Hewlett Packard and Varian - but they were more like established companies on the East Coast. Shockley introduced some instability in the system. "

If you want to learn more, read it...

Product Description
"I realized I was willing to die for Java."
-- KIM POLESE, MARIMBA

"I was the opposite of a party animal.I had this thing where if I was signed up for a [college] class, I wouldn't go to the class, ever."
-- BILL GATES, MICROSOFT

"I don't know what made me decide that my life should always be about making love standing up in a hammock, but this is the way that my life has worked out."
-- JERRY SANDERS, ADVANCED MICRO DEVICES

Beyond the media hype and mystique, the high-tech entrepreneurs of our time are just as human as the rest of us-even though they carefully guard their words and maintain their corporate images, making it almost impossible to get a real glimpse of the people behind the legends. Now, Betting It All takes you inside the minds of sixteen of the most famous industry titans-Scott McNealy, Bob Metcalfe, Carol Bartz, Philippe Kahn, and more-through a series of intimate and remarkably candid interviews.You'll be the fly on the wall as these business leaders explore memories from childhood, their dreams, their inspirations, and their unwavering ambition to achieve their goals-no matter the risks involved.

From the Inside Flap
From garages and kitchen tables across America, courageous men and women have built the great technology companies that define modern life.Bill Gates, Larry Ellison, Steve Wozniak-the names are as familiar as movie stars; their every move captures headlines and their decisions affect the lives of millions.

But behind the well-crafted personae these men and women present to the world, what are they really like?What makes them tick?What enabled them to make, often in a few short years, the leap from everyday person to industry titan?What drives them to stay at the top?What keeps them from walking away with their riches to a long and easy life?

Betting It All has the revealing answers.Based on the popular PBS series, and containing added material never shown, this book takes a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the lives of sixteen legendary American entrepreneurs. It offers new insights into the hearts and minds of Gates, Ellison, Wozniak, Gordon Moore of Intel, Carol Bartz of Autodesk, Tom Siebel of Siebel Systems, T. J. Rodgers of Cypress Semiconductor, and others.In intimate interviews, Michael S. Malone, Editor at Large of Forbes ASAP magazine and long-time Silicon Valley chronicler, strips away the myth and exposes the human side of business, digging deep to find the individual beneath the entrepreneur.

You'll hear, in their own words, how these brave people weathered their personal tragedies and savored their triumphs . . . why they take such daring risks . . . and how their deep levels of commitment drove them to reach such lofty goals.You'll be there as:

• Candice Carpenter, cofounder and Chairman of iVillage.com, talks about being a survivor, how living in the mountains prepared her for the Internet, and how sisterhood is now the focus of her life
• Steve Wozniak, cofounder of Apple Computer Inc., tells how a particular book in sixth grade set him on his life's path and led him into the world of computers
• Larry Ellison, founder, Chairman, and CEO of Oracle Corporation, revisits old wounds from childhood, which sparked his relentless ambition and his need to live out the dreams of his youth

Provocative, personal, and, above all, inspirational, Betting It All reveals surprising and compelling details about each industry giant with every turn of the page.

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Review of Network+ Certification Bible (With CD-ROM) (Hardcover)

I bought this book, along with the Network+ Passport by Mike Meyers and passed the test with no problem. I'm a fan of Gilster's books, and this one didn't disappoint. While the Network+ Passport does a great job of skimming over the basics, this book expanded on topics and covered everything necessary. Since I already had networking experience, I could have passed the test with this book alone. I also thought the test software included was pretty solid.

Product Description
* Master the material for the CompTIA Network+ exam
* Test your knowledge with assessment questions, scenario problems, and labs
* Practice on state-of-the-art test-preparation software
The only guide you need for Network+ exam success...
You're holding in your hands the most comprehensive and effective guide available for the CompTIA Network+ exam. A crack team of networking experts delivers incisive, crystal-clear explanations of every Network+ topic, highlighting exam-critical concepts and offering hands-on tips that can help you in your real-world networking career. Throughout, they provide pre-tests, exam-style assessment questions, scenario problems, and labs - everything you need to master the material and pass the exam. Inside, you'll find complete coverage of Network+ exam objectives
* Get the scoop on network topologies and technologies, media standards, and network components
* Master the ins and outs of MAC addresses, the OSI model, and common protocols such as TCP/IP, FTP, SMTP, and TFTP
* Get a handle on TCP/UDP port functionality and services such as DHCP, DNS, WINS, and SNMP
* Delve into IP addressing, public and private networks, WANs, remote access, and security protocols
* Find out how to implement VLANs, network-attached storage, fault tolerance, disaster recovery, firewalls, and proxy servers
* Get up to speed on network support, from client/server network configuration to troubleshooting wiring, networks, and remote connectivity
Test-Prep Software on CD-ROM
* Customizable test engine with hundreds of sample questions
* Searchable e-version of the book
* Observer demo version

From the Back Cover

• Master the material for the CompTIA Network+ exam
• Test your knowledge with assessment questions, scenario problems, and labs
• Practice on state-of-the-art test-preparation software

The only guide you need for Network+ exam success...

Youre holding in your hands the most comprehensive and effective guide available for the CompTIA Network+ exam. A crack team of networking experts delivers incisive, crystal-clear explanations of every Network+ topic, highlighting exam-critical concepts and offering hands-on tips that can help you in your real-world networking career. Throughout, they provide pre-tests, exam-style assessment questions, scenario problems, and labs - everything you need to master the material and pass the exam. Inside, youll find complete coverage of Network+ exam objectives

• Get the scoop on network topologies and technologies, media standards, and network components
• Master the ins and outs of MAC addresses, the OSI model, and common protocols such as TCP/IP, FTP, SMTP, and TFTP
• Get a handle on TCP/UDP port functionality and services such as DHCP, DNS, WINS, and SNMP
• Delve into IP addressing, public and private networks, WANs, remote access, and security protocols
• Find out how to implement VLANs, network-attached storage, fault tolerance, disaster recovery, firewalls, and proxy servers
• Get up to speed on network support, from client/server network configuration to troubleshooting wiring, networks, and remote connectivity

Test-Prep Software on CD-ROM

• Customizable test engine with hundreds of sample questions
• Searchable e-version of the book
• Observer demo version

Click Here to see more reviews about: Network+ Certification Bible (With CD-ROM) (Hardcover)

Review of 3ds Max 2009 Bible (Paperback)

Like other 'bibles' 3ds Max 'bible' is frustrating, often oblique and although the author clearly knows his stuff, he cannot teach - at least not this reader. It is a brick of a book and the illustrations often contradict the text which leads to further difficulty. Also the odd religious prose dedication at the beginning of the book about sin and how one should live one's life is odd to say the least in an industry text, and, given how frustrating the book is to use, simply adds another annoyance. For the 3ds Max novice the '3ds Max Essentials' book from Elsevir is excellent and had me in control of the application and understanding why I was in control in no time. As for the 'bible', comprehensive, yes, but helpful? Not for the novice. Avoid.

Product Description
The only comprehensive reference-tutorial on 3ds Max available, this book is everyone's favorite. Whether you're a beginner looking for 3D basics or a full-fledged animator seeking new ways to dazzle viewers with your creations, it's all here. You'll find pages of professional tips, loads of advice, and more than 150 step-by-step tutorials guaranteed to build your skills and spark your creativity. A 16-page color insert highlights cutting-edge work from 3D artists. A valuable companion DVD provides all the examples and content from the book, including unique models and textures you can customize on your own, and a searchable, full-color version of the book.

3ds Max 2009 Bible covers both 3ds Max 2009 and 3ds Max 2009 Design and covers:

• Navigating the viewports with the ViewCube, SteeringWheels, and other ways.
• Creating realistic materials with new ProMaterials.
• Using Spline Mapping to improve texture mapping over irregular shaped objects.
• Blending multiple texture maps together with the new Composite Map.
• Creating architectural walkthroughs with the Walkthrough Assistant.

Don't miss out on the newest version of this bestselling resource!

From the Back Cover
Covers both 3ds Max 2009 and 3ds Max 2009 Design

This is, hands down, the best book on 3ds Max you'll find

If you want just one book to be your go-to guide for all things 3ds Max, this is the book. Whether you're a beginner looking for 3D basics or a full-fledged animator seeking new ways to dazzle viewers with your creations, it's all here. You'll find pages of professional tips, loads of advice, and more than 150 step-by-step tutorials guaranteed to build your skills and spark your creativity.

• Discover the ViewCube, SteeringWheels, and more ways to navigate the viewports

• Use the new ProMaterials to create realistic materials

• Improve texture mapping over irregular shaped objects using Spline Mapping

• Blend multiple texture maps together with the new Composite Map

• Easily create architectural walkthroughs with the Walkthrough Assistant

What's on the DVD?
You'll find before-and-after example files for every tutorial in the book. The DVD also includes:

• Unique models and textures you can customize for your own designs

• Autodesk 3ds Max evaluation version

• A searchable full-color PDF of the book

System Requirements: See the DVD appendix for details and complete system requirements.

Also in the Book

• A 16-page full-color insert showcases cutting-edge work from 3ds Max artists

Click Here to see more reviews about: 3ds Max 2009 Bible (Paperback)

Review of Getting Started in Computer Consulting (Paperback)

I didn't buy this book through Amazon, but I loved it so much that I hadto review it.

A very practical book that was written with lots ofexamples by a very experienced person.I found it extreemly useful insetting up my own database consulting business.it contains things suchas:

How to price your time, how to choose your client, how to ensure thatyour client has confidence in you, pitfalls to avoid when building yourbusiness etc.

Excelent!

Product Description
Written by an expert who has helped thousands of people nationwide find success as computer consultants, this is your complete guide to starting and managing a thriving computer and network consulting practice. From start-up costs to contract negotiation, from taxes to pricing and marketing, you get concise, straightforward advice and guidance on all the critical issues involved. And throughout the text you'll find candid accounts from seasoned computer consultants who share invaluable insights into all aspects of the business. You'll learn how to:

• Assess your strengths and zero in on your market niche
• Use proven, affordable marketing and sales techniques
• Decide when you need a broker and find one you can work with
• Set fees and negotiate contracts to your best advantage
• Bid on government contracts--and win
• Manage your time and workload for optimum satisfaction
• Choose and win the clients you want to work with
• Use the Internet to build your success

From the Back Cover
"

Written by an expert who has helped thousands of people nationwide find success as computer consultants, this is your complete guide to starting and managing a thriving computer and network consulting practice. From start-up costs to contract negotiation, from taxes to pricing and marketing, you get concise, straightforward advice and guidance on all the critical issues involved. And throughout the text you'll find candid accounts from seasoned computer consultants who share invaluable insights into all aspects of the business. You'll learn how to: Assess your strengths and zero in on your market niche Use proven, affordable marketing and sales techniquesDecide when you need a broker and find one you can work withSet fees and negotiate contracts to your best advantageBid on government contracts--and winManage your time and workload for optimum satisfactionChoose and win the clients you want to work withUse the Internet to build your success

Click Here to see more reviews about: Getting Started in Computer Consulting (Paperback)

Review of The Official XMLSPY Handbook (Paperback)

I don't feel tempted to write a review very often but for this book I do. It is a warning: Don't buy this book. There are an awfull lot of better books about XML, XML Schema's and XSLT around (try Wrox) and the book doesn't tell you anything about XML spy (which is a great product!) that you can't find out with an hour or so of clicking around and trying the features.
More important: It doesn't even mention the more interesting features of XML Spy that do seem to require a manual: Extending the product by writing macro's for instance or this Authentic stuff.
For me, unfortunately, it was a waste of time and money.

Product Description

• Covers all the features of the number one XML development tool-currently used by over 500,000 developers worldwide
• Written by one of Altova's top XML "spies," this book will be an indispensable study guide for XML Spy Certification
• Addresses topics that will appeal to XML newbies and veterans who are looking to build XML applications, documents, and Web services more quickly and easily
• Shows how to work with XML views, create and manage XML Spy projects, XML fundamentals, DTDs, and schemas
• CD-ROM includes a sixty day trial version of XML Spy

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Official XMLSPY Handbook (Paperback)

Review of Valuing Employee Stock Options (Wiley Finance) (Hardcover)

The book does a decent job of providing intuition on why traditional Black-Scholes framework will not work for Employee Stock Options. But then again, if directional intuition is what you are seeking, why spend the money on this book when you can get the same information by reading articles published in the Financial Analysts Journal (FAJ)? The book and the accompanying CD seem to be very cryptic when it comes to understanding the effects of early exercise. The CD is pretty much a black-box. If you think you can buy this book and explain the results of the analysis, then you are mistaken. Unless you have a PhD in Finance or a Masters in Financial Engineering, you may not understand what the algorithms do. Then again, if you had these degrees, you wouldn't need the book!

Product Description
A comprehensive guide to understanding the implications and applications of valuing employee stock options in light of the new FAS 123 requirements
Due to the new requirements of the Proposed Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (FAS 123) released by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB)-namely the fact that employee services received in exchange for equity instruments be recognized in financial statements-companies are now scrambling to learn how to value and expense employee stock options (ESOs). Based on author Dr. Johnathan Mun's consulting and advisory work with the FASB consulting projects with several Fortune 500 firms, Valuing Employee Stock Options provides readers with a comprehensive look at this complex issue.
Filled with valuable information on binomial lattice and closed-form modeling techniques, Valuing Employee Stock Options can help financial professionals make informed decisions when attempting to ascertain the fair-market value of ESOs under the new requirements.
Johnathan Mun, PhD, MBA, MS, CFC, FRM (San Francisco, CA), is Vice President of Analytical Services at Decisioneering, Inc., the makers of Crystal Ball analytical software. He is also the author of Applied Risk Analysis (0-471-47885-7), Real Options Analysis (0-471-25696-X), and Real Options Analysis Course (0-471-43001-3), all of which are published by Wiley.

From the Inside Flap
The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) released a Proposed Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (FAS) in 2004 that amended earlier FAS Statements 123 and 95. Soon after, the Wall Street Journal called this release "amoung the most far- reaching steps that the Financial Accounting Standards Board has made in its thirty-year history. " As a result, companies must learn how to rigorously and efficiently value and expense employee stock options (ESOs).

Based on author Johnathan Mun's advisory work with the FASB over 2003 and 2004, his graduate research work in the area of options analysis, and actual FAS 123 consulting projects with several Fortune 500 firms, Valuing Employee Stock Options provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the valuation applications of a customized binomial lattice through a systematic and objective assessment of the methodology.

This just-in-time resource includes informative sections that:

• Review the impact of ESO Cost
• Illustrate the issues of fair market valuation through an analytical assessment of three mainstream approaches used in option pricing
• Discuss the technical background required to run the Black-Scholes model (BSM) and customized binomial lattices
• Run through in-depth sample case studies applying FAS 123
• Provide multiple options valuation results that prove valuable from the perspective of both an analyst and a chief financial officer

The analyses performed in this book also use the author's own proprietary customized binomial lattice computer algorithms as well as his Real Options Analysis Toolkit, and Decisioneering, Inc.'s Crystal Ball Monte Carlo simulation software.

Filled with in-depth insight and expert advice, Valuing Employee Stock Options can help CFOs and finance directors as well as analysts, consultants, and accountants understand the implications and applications of valuing employee stock options in light of today's ever-changing financial rules and regulations.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Valuing Employee Stock Options (Wiley Finance) (Hardcover)

Review of SQL Bible (Paperback)

So far the book itself looks good, but the trial version of IBM DB2 on the CD-ROM expired in Nov of 2004 according to page 611 (conveniently not mentioned on the book cover).The artwork on the CD-ROM itself claims that the CD-ROM has a trial version of MS SQL Server 2000 but if it is on there I can't find it.
IBM does have a trial version of DB2 available for download from their website.

Product Description

• Covers the latest version of the ISO SQL standard (SQL-99) and gives readers information they need to know about the differences in vendor-specific SQL implementations including Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and IBM DB2
• Knowledge of this ubiquitous database programming language is becoming more critical as IT departments move toward more integrated heterogeneous platforms
• Covers growing use of SQL with Web services and XML
• CD-ROM includes a complete sample database and trial versions of major relational database management software
  
  
  

From the Back Cover
If SQL can do it, you can do it too...

Here, in one definitive volume, is all the information you need to understand and use SQL and its implementations in accordance with the established SQL99 standard. Whether you want to learn database programming from scratch, you'd like to sharpen your SQL skills, or you need to know more about programming for a heterogeneous database environment, this book provides the complete menu. Tutorials and code examples in each chapter make it an indispensable reference for every level of expertise.

Inside, you'll find complete coverage of SQL

• Understand the definition and characteristics of relational databases and SQL's role within RDBMS
• Recognize vendor-specific implementation variations among Oracle, IBM DB2 UDB, and MS SQL Server
• Create and modify RDBMS objects like tables, views, indexes, synonyms, sequences, and schemas using Data Definition Language (DDL)
• Comprehend Data Manipulation Language (DML) from different vendors' perspectives
• Master single-table select statements and multitable queries from the ground up
• Explore in-depth SQL functions, operators, and data types for major RDBMS implementations
• Discover new SQL developments including XML, OLAP, Web services, and object-oriented features

Bonus CD-ROM includes:

• IBM® DB2® Universal Database Personal Edition v 8.1 for Windows® Operating Environments Evaluation copy
• Complete original database example files from the authors
• Complete book in PDF format

Click Here to see more reviews about: SQL Bible (Paperback)

Review of Corporate Management, Governance, and Ethics Best Practices (Hardcover)

Professor Vallabhaneni's latest offering is a comprehensive yet concise guide to the very best in best practices in enterprise management. This book is the logical follow on to Vallabhaneni's pioneering leadership in founding the Association of Professionals in Business Management (APBM) and the Certified Business Manager (CBM) professional designation. Clear and well organized, Corporate Management, Governance, and Ethics Best Practices is an absolute must read for every business executive and management student.

Product Description
All the best practices a manager and an executive need-in a one-stop, comprehensive reference

Praise for Corporate Management, Governance, and Ethics Best Practices

"If you want a comprehensive compendium of best practices in corporate governance, risk management, ethical values, quality, process management, credible financial reporting, and related issues like the SOX Act all in one place spanning both breadth and depth, Vallabhaneni's book is the source of insightful thoughts as a reference manual. A must-read and a should-own for all institutions and libraries around the globe; I am pleased I read it and use it in my classes."
-Professor Bala V. Balachandran, Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University

"Mr. Vallabhaneni has an excellent grasp of corporate governance principles. In particular, he shows how these principles can mitigate a broad range of corporate risks."
-Steven M. Bragg, author of Accounting Best Practices and Inventory Best Practices

"Professor Vallabhaneni provides an excellent analysis of the corporate governance landscape. His discussion and categorization of risks confronting an organization will be very helpful to boards of directors."
-Frederick D. Lipman, President of the Association of Audit Committee Members, Inc. and Partner, Blank Rome LLP

Representing a single and collective voice for the entire business management profession, Corporate Management, Governance, and Ethics Best Practices provides a cohesive framework for organization-wide implementation of the best practices used by today's leading companies and is an authoritative source on best practices covering all functions of a business corporation, including governance and ethics.

From the Inside Flap

Corporate Management, Governance, and Ethics Best Practices

Best practices are the processes, practices, and systems identified in public and private organizations that performed exceptionally well and are widely recognized as improving an organization's performance and efficiency in specific areas. Successfully identifying and applying best practices can improve business processes and increase organizational effectiveness. Based on author S. Rao Vallabhaneni's decades of management experience, Corporate Management, Governance, and Ethics Best Practices provides a one-stop, comprehensive reference guide to the best-of-the-best practices for corporate business practitioners and government employees worldwide.

Because every company's resources and budget is different, Corporate Management, Governance, and Ethics Best Practices takes a "big picture" approach, allowing managers and executives to tailor each practice based on organization-specific resource availability as well as management strategies and priorities. Each self-contained chapter begins with an over-view of the topic, a presentation of man- agement's roles and responsibilities, a dis-cussion of core topics, and ends with applicable laws, rules, regulations, standards, and principles.

When implemented properly, these best practices help organizations:

• Increase product sales and service revenues

• Achieve cost, production, and service efficiencies

• Increase effective utilization of financial and nonfinancial resources

• Improve organizational, operational, technical, and financial performance

• Increase the quality of products and services in the marketplace

• Increase market share, profits, and returns

• Adhere to ethical principles and values and comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and standards

• Enjoy a competitive edge in the industry

• Enhance the firm's posture of social responsibility

Within this trove of proven winning strategies, best-in-class employees working for world-class organizations will find a wellspring of information to help them think differently, act radically, discover their own best-of-breed solutions, and implement best practices to prosper and grow their organizations' business continuously and successfully.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Corporate Management, Governance, and Ethics Best Practices (Hardcover)

Review of Teach Yourself VISUALLY Networking, 2nd Edition (Paperback)

I teach networking classes at Computer Applications Company and I have found this book to be an excellent resource for beginners to learn networking terminology and concepts.Most of the students who used this book learned the concepts quickly.

Product Description
How does information get from one computer to the next? How do I choose what hardware is best for my network? What certification programs are out there for me? If you don't know the answers to any of these questions, then read this fully updated Teach Yourself VISUALLY Networking to learn these answers and more!

From the Back Cover
"I've shown you book to at least 50 people. At my last company, it went on the 'recommended reading' list. THANK YOU for the visual learning aid. It made such a difference in my learning curve as I changed industries." -Gerry A. Lee (Colorado Springs, CO)

Read Less, Learn More
Are you a visual learner? Do you prefer instructions that show you how to do something-and skip the long-winded explanations? If so, then this book is for you. Open it up and you'll find clear, step-by-step illustrations that explain computer networking fundamentals, from hardware, architecture, operating systems, and protocols to security, administration, Internet connections, and intranets.

• Full-color illustrations demonstrate each task
• Succinct explanations walk you through the basics and beyond
• Self-contained lessons break big topics into bite-sized modules
• Jargon-free captions offer practical tips and tricks

Click Here to see more reviews about: Teach Yourself VISUALLY Networking, 2nd Edition (Paperback)

Review of Modeling Derivatives in C++ (Wiley Finance) (Paperback)

Like some other reviews (some of which have been removed by Amazon) have pointed out, this book is comprehensive, covers most of the right topics yet have some major flaws that prevent it from being truly useful to the students of financial engineering. It successfully COMPILES and DOCUMENTS the derivatives models in C++ but it is less sucessful in TEACHING the process of building these C++ modules. I look forward to a 2nd edition.

The author makes an honest attempt to show the mathematical and financial theories underpining the models and present the associated C++ code. However, the models and the associate codes are presented in a encyclopedia-like fashion. Moreover the codes are 'borrowed' from various sources, including the open source quantlib project, thus there's a lack of consistency. From page to page, you are directed to codes with very different coding styles. Therefore there's disjointed feel to this book.

What I would like to see a its 2nd edition are the following:
1. Relegate the code snippets to the appendix section (or just put them in the CD) and present only the neccesary codes next to the models.
2. Write his own codes or just adopt quantlib's library directly and change the title to Derivatives C++ 2nd edition: a quantlib approach. Consistency in the coding is important.
3. Decide what's the target audience of the book and what is the main object of this book? is it to teach people 'HOW' to map derivatives models to C++, is it to document 'WHAT' derivatives models and the associated C++ codes are out there.

Overall this book is promising, is ambitious in its coverage, but would benefit from a major revision. For its efforts and intentions, I would rate is 3 stars.

An alternative way (IMHO a much better way) to learn Derivatives C++ programming is to take a bottom up approach and learn the various components separately:

Mathematical Finance: Hull (2005, comprehensive coverage of derivatives models); Wilmott/Howison/Dewynne (1995, The mathematics of financial derivatives); Joshi (2005, The Concepts and practice of mathematical finance)

Mapping of mathematical models to computer programs (pseudocodes): Clewlow/Strickland (1998), Lyuu (2001), Seydel (2003)

Programming in C++: any introductory book in C++ would do (I like Deitel & Deitel); Object-oriented C++ and STL

Also need to learn the linear algebra and how to manipulate matrices and system of linear equations in C++.






Product Description
This book is the definitive and most comprehensive guide to modeling derivatives in C++ today. Providing readers with not only the theory and math behind the models, as well as the fundamental concepts of financial engineering, but also actual robust object-oriented C++ code, this is a practical introduction to the most important derivative models used in practice today, including equity (standard and exotics including barrier, lookback, and Asian) and fixed income (bonds, caps, swaptions, swaps, credit) derivatives. The book provides complete C++ implementations for many of the most important derivatives and interest rate pricing models used on Wall Street including Hull-White, BDT, CIR, HJM, and LIBOR Market Model. London illustrates the practical and efficient implementations of these models in real-world situations and discusses the mathematical underpinnings and derivation of the models in a detailed yet accessible manner illustrated by many examples with numerical data as well as real market data. A companion CD contains quantitative libraries, tools, applications, and resources that will be of value to those doing quantitative programming and analysis in C++. Filled with practical advice and helpful tools, Modeling Derivatives in C++ will help readers succeed in understanding and implementing C++ when modeling all types of derivatives.

About the Author
Justin London is the founder and visionary of GlobalMaxTrading.com (GMT), The World's Online Financial Supermarket®, a global online trading and financial technology company, as well as GlobalMaxAuctions.com, The World's Online Trading Exchange ®, a global B2C and B2B auction and trading company. He has analyzed and managed bank corporate loan portfolios using credit derivatives in the Asset Portfolio Management Group of a large bank in Chicago, Illinois. He has developed fixed-income and equity models for trading companies and his own quantitative consulting firm. London has written code and algorithms in C++ to price and hedge various equity and fixed-income derivatives with a focus on building interest rate models. A graduate of the University of Michigan, London has five degrees, including a BA in economics and mathematics, an MA in applied economics, and an MS in financial engineering, computer science, and mathematics, respectively.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Modeling Derivatives in C++ (Wiley Finance) (Paperback)

Review of Branding in Asia: The Creation, Development, and Management of Asian Brands for the Global Market (Paperback)

My expectations were mainly about redressing the balance on geographical origins of brand case studies. Our literature suffers from being far too US centric. This imbalance is unfortunate for several reasons including: - living in the US for the last 2 years has taught me how atypical the USconsumer is of any other I have met in 25 countries that I have worked-from the oldest brand models (which assumed brands were advertising led) tothe newest ebrand models, there's huge share of voice reflectingtheculture of corporate America and the case theories of its business schools.These powerful systems shouldn't be unquestioningly exported as being defacto paradigms for local organisational excellence or social value.

Myexpectations were exceeded because this book - unlike most on the brandwhich start with chapters on advertising and marketing communications -opens up from the very beginning on the leadership importance of branding.Here we are on pages 1-2: "Strong brands endure many challenges. This isbecoming increasingly relevant in an era of unprecedented change, upheavaland uncertainty. This change is strategic, unlike the incremental change ofmore predictable times, and therefore requires a strategic response. Brandbuilding is exactly such a response. If successful, it can be the strongestweapon in a company's armory and the best guarantee of corporate survival.The challenge that lies ahead is that of change management.

And by page4, we're invited to join in a cataloguing of worldwide changes tomarketing: -the breakdown of market boundaries -globalization and thedevelopment of global brands -increasing market fragmentation -productdiversity and shorter life cycles -greater customer sophistication -digitalbusiness -economic instability and market volatility

So this book flies,and yet at the same time when you read it you will continually pick upuseful advice whether your brain is looking for practical or academicstimulation. For example, the book closes with an appendix of veryworthwhile brand exercises, and it resonates with case studies, 24 in all.Each case study ends with a summary of that brand's strengths.

This bookwill be good for you whether this is the first one you read on branding, oras in my case the twenty first, including two of my own. For example, Ilearnt a lot from Temporal's consistently strong advice on brand values andthe way they shape corporate personality on its outside and inside.

Product Description
"Paul Temporal shows how the fundamental principles of brand building are transferable to the Asian environment. A diverse collection of Asian caselets should convince us that the 21st century will see the emergence of more Asian regional and global megabrands." Professor John A Quelch Dean London Business School "Branding in Asia addresses an unusual situation in Asia - how is it that a region which has such high brand appreciation, produces few international brands of its own? The author's analysis of actual case studies, ranging from powerful global brands to local companies, illustrates his points clearly. This, coupled with a sensitive understanding of the cultural differences in the region makes it an excellent reference for everyone working with brands." Felix Herrnberger President BMW Asia Pte Ltd "Paul Temporal succinctly dissects the often mystical qualities that make up a successful brand. Too often Western insights, models and case studies are applied arbitrarily across the globe, it is so refreshing to see branding tackled from a purely Asian perspective. An invaluable reference book and eminently readable, the step-by-step style and volume of relevant cases and examples makes this a must have for any manager in Asia looking to embark on creating his own regional or global brand." Ray Dempsey Area manager McCann-Erickson South East Asia

Click Here to see more reviews about: Branding in Asia: The Creation, Development, and Management of Asian Brands for the Global Market (Paperback)

Review of Windows® 98 Secrets® (Paperback)

I found this Windows Secrets book just as helpful as its predecesors. I had used the Windows 3.1 Secrets years ago, in order to become more accuainted with the OS and learn some tricks that don't come welldocumented, and it certainly helped to do so.

However, if your goal isto become an EXPERT of Windows 98, i.e. learning the whereabouts of theRegistry, you might be disappointed.

One last thing: this book does NOTdeal with the Second Version of Windows 98. For example, it mentions tonsof times a VERY useful un-documented tool called TweakUI, which is notsupported by the Second Edition (sadly enough.)

Product Description
Windows 98, the ballyhooed new Microsoft operating system, is finally here and the best-selling Windows author duo ñ Brian Livingston and Davis Straub ñ mark this momentous software release with their seminal guide, Windows® 98 Secrets®. Livingston and Straub divulge undocumented features and time-saving shortcuts designed to maximize your Windows 98 experience.

Windows 98 Secrets explains how to connect directly to the Web using the Active Desktop, take advantage of dynamic communication advances, optimize new security options, tweak the registry, customize your desktop, and much more.

You can also sample 200 Windows 98 software programs hand-picked by Livingston and Straub on the Windows 98 Secrets bonus CD-ROM. There is also a bevy of handy resources packed onto the CD including FTP clients, HTML editors, database managers, automation tools, and Internet suites. Thanks to Livingston and Straub, the Windows 98 wizard has been exposed and with Windows 98 Secrets, you can reap the rewards.

From the Back Cover
Windows® 98 secrets® "If you buy only one Windows book this year, make it this one … [it] towers above the competition." - PC Magazine on Windows® 95 Secrets® Fully revised to uncover the latest features of Windows 98 Second Edition, Livingston and Straub's internationally acclaimed guide reveals dozens of expert techniques and timesaving shortcuts that will help you unlock the capabilities of Windows 98 - from customizing your desktop to editing the Registry. Realize the Full Potential of Windows 98

• Customize your system to suit your unique style
• Save time using the Active Desktop's direct connection to the Net
• Optimize performance with shortcuts to programs, folders, printers, Web sites, and more
• Download Web pages, sound, and images easily from the Internet
• Make use of the latest communication advances in e-mail, networking, and more
• Find out how to transfer files back and forth from your laptop to your desktop - without hassle
• Exploit new security options
• Manipulate the Registry - edit, backup, import, and export

Sample Livingston's and Straub's top 200 software picks for Windows 98

• Automation tools
• File managers and compression tools
• Memory and system management tools
• Virus protection software
• Calendar and time management programs
• Personal finance managers
• Database managers
• Graphics and text editing tools
• Mail clients and utilities
• Dial-up networking tools
• Remote computing tools
• FTP clients
• Internet suites
• Web browsing and authoring tools
• HTML editors
• Networking tools

Shareware programs are fully functional, free trial versions of copyrighted programs. If you like particular programs, register with their author for a nominal fee and receive licenses, enhanced versions, and technical support. Freeware programs are free, copyrighted games, applications, and utilities. You can copy them to as many PCs as you like-free-but they have no technical support.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Windows® 98 Secrets® (Paperback)

Review of The Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 Implementation Toolkit: Practice Aids for Managers and Auditors with CD ROM (Hardcover)

If you have the older version, then stick on to it. This new edition has JUST ONE CHAPTER new (On small Business - which you can google it out for the gist of it)with an Appendix that you can download from the SEC's website. Don't waste your money.

Product Description
Now updated and fully revised, The Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 Implementation Toolkit, Second Edition helps large or small companies continue to meet the complex internal control reporting requirements of Sarbanes-Oxley. Brimming with a wealth of forms and checklists, the new edition helps you get up to speed quickly with SOX 404 requirements and makes the compliance process repeatable, more efficient, and more effective.

From the Inside Flap

The Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 Implementation Toolkit

Now updated and fully revised, The Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 Implementation Toolkit, Second Edition is a useful source of detailed implementation practice aids to help companies-whether large corporations or smaller public companies-continue to meet the complex internal control reporting requirements of Sarbanes-Oxley.

Providing a road map through the entire compliance process, The Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 Implementation Toolkit, Second Edition offers clear instructions to help readers gather and assess information in order to form logical, supportable conclusions about internal control effectiveness. In addition, it lays out a very involved testing process that engages the project team with operating personnel to discover "what really goes on" at the company. To ensure successful discovery, this book helps the project team be highly active by encouraging them to ask multiple questions, make observations, and corroborate single instances of control compliance until a clear pattern emerges.

New coverage includes:

• New guidance for small businesses and large companies

• Detailed implementation practice aids for Sarbanes-Oxley 404 compliance based on new rules set by PCAOB and SEC

• Best practices in this emerging, rapidly changing field of SOX 404 compliance

• A valuable CD-ROM containing all of the tools in the book including a collection of detailed work programs, audit checklists, and examples that can be tailored to meet the needs of any practice and client

• A new SEC appendix

Brimming with a wealth of forms and checklists, The Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 Implementation Toolkit, Second Edition helps you get up to speed quickly with SOX 404 requirements and makes the compliance process repeatable, more efficient, and more effective.

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Review of The Professional Services Firm Bible (Hardcover)

If you operate or work at a professional services firm, this book is invaluable. After reading the review by Steve Powers in the Dallas Morning News, my interest peaked. The book touches every aspect of operating a midsize firm-from sales management and business development to writing proposals and recruiting. There is also a great CD-ROM that features diagrams, spreadsheets, checklists, and other useful resources. It is a very useful reference tool for beginners and pros alike!

Product Description
THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FIRM BIBLE

A comprehensive guide to every aspect of firm operation:

• Governance
  
• Organizational structure
  
• Compensation
  
• Sales management
  
• Marketing and advertising
  
• Business development
  
• Contract negotiations
  
• Intellectual property
  
• Writing proposals
  
• Strategic partnering
  
• Quality assurance
  
• Training and professional development
  
• Recruiting and retention
  
• Project management
  
• Risk management
  
• Finance and accounting
  
• Purchasing and procurement
  
• Vendor management
  
• Information technology
  
• Legal issues
  
• Office management
  

From the Inside Flap
The Professional Services Firm Bible is a comprehensive, sophisticated guide to every aspect of operating all types of mid-sized professional services firms-from law and accounting firms to consulting, real estate offices, and marketing companies. Focused primarily on growing firms with several to hundreds of professionals, it presents a wealth of expert advice for firm partners and managers who want to dramatically improve their business and keep their clients and professional staff happy.

Each chapter is written by a well-known expert practitioner who shares his or her knowledge, experience, and personal stories, providing a wide range of perspectives on a specific topic area. Together, these different voices present a complete set of best practices for modern firms, as well as practical, real-world solutions for every vital function-from sales and marketing to operations to human resources to staff management.

Focused on what it takes to successfully grow a small to mid-sized firm, readers will find field-tested advice on such important topics as:

• Building a sales approach that meets the needs of a growing firm
  
• Designing marketing, sales, and businessdevelopment strategies that really work
  
• Expanding firm business through the development of new product offerings and strategic partnerships
  
• Creating an optimal partnership and organization structure
  
• Managing and developing professional staff
  
• Accurately auditing and measuring the firm's performance and developing meaningful improvement plans
  
• Growing and leveraging firm assets and resources
  
• Designing the ideal information system for the firm
  
• Effective management of functional areas, including HR, finance, and accounting
  

Most important, readers will find specific policies for building a management and decision-making structure that ensures accountability and efficiency, as well as a wealth of management tactics specifically designed for small to mid-sized firms. Best practices offer invaluable help for back-office functions such as accounting, legal, and IT, while the accompanying CD-ROM includes diagrams, spreadsheets, checklists, and other useful tools. With expert guidance on every facet of professional services firm operation, The Professional Services Firm Bible is the one resource no firm can do without.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Professional Services Firm Bible (Hardcover)

Review of Alan Simpson's Windows XP Bible (Paperback)

I picked this book up because I was looking for details on Microsofts "latest and greatest."I have to admit I should have done more research.
This book is probably suitable for someone new to windows(any flavor) and computers.

It is full of basic information and is well written,
however if you have no difficulties maneuvering in previous versions of Windows or consider yourself a poweruser...look elsewhere.



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Review of Accounting for Fixed Assets (Hardcover)

Learned several things from reading this book.I'm still looking for a book that covers 144 in a condensed summary.This book does not quite provide this, but nonetheless, it is very good.

Product Description
Strategies AND techniques for getting the most out of A COMPANY'S physical assets

Accounting for Fixed Assets, Second Edition presents comprehensive guidelines for effectively managing property, plant, and equipment in order to get the maximum benefits out of investments in these long-term tangible assets. Enhanced with numerous examples and illustrations, this new edition features essential material on government accounting, not-for-profit accounting, and practical computer programs.

Complete, up-to-date coverage of fixed-asset accounting includes:

• Asset classification
• Base unit
• Asset value
• Asset safeguards
• Inventories of fixed assets
• Extraordinary repairs
• Written policies
• Self-constructed assets

From the Publisher
A thorough analysis of the issues surrounding fixed asset accounting, crucial to a corporation's balance sheet, it offers the definitive explanation regarding the statement on management accounting--property, plant and equipment--by the Institute of Management Accountants. Covers asset classification, base unit, inventories, asset value and protection. Special accounting situations are examined in regulated utilities, government and nonprofit accounting. Contains numerous examples and illustrations.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Review of Business Plans to Game Plans: A Practical System for Turning Strategies into Action (Paperback)

I found the worksheets alone in this book worth the price. When you follow the step-by-step instructions, the worksheets cull out only the data youneed.With all the extraneous data out of the way, it's easy to pinpointcritical problems that you might miss otherwise.And it makes developingkey indicators and reports easier as well.I think any CEO who wants tokeep the company's accounting and human resource managers on top of thingsat all times should give them this book tomorrow...if not sooner.

Product Description
"This book does something important: it takes abstract information and puts it in language and worksheets that make sense. This gives everyone-- including top managers-- a complete description of how a company's performing. And there's no better tool for improving performance than understanding."
-- Jack Stack, author of The Great Game of Business

"Know what is vital to the success of your business, enhance skills for confident prediction, and avert crisis management. This book offers all that for the price of lunch."
-- James C. Collins, Chairman Emeritus, Sizzler International, Inc.

"Most small business-related books approach the implementation of business plans and strategic planning in a very traditional fashion. This one is different. It illustrates how to realistically turn a business plan into an action plan. But it does not stop there. The author discusses the most current methods of managing a business, e.g., total quality management techniques, not in textbook style but in practical, everyday language. Her style of 'instruction' is nothing short of excellent. This readable, practical work is useful for all levels."
-- Fred Andrews, Springfield Community Technical College in Choice: Current Reviews for Academic Libraries

"This 'how-to' workbook for small businesses shows how to develop and communicate a vision and how to empower people so they can make the vision a reality."
-- Arizona Business Gazette

Transform your business plan into an action plan

This new revised edition elaborates on the six critical principles of running a small business that helped guide King to success:

• Set standards and give your employees the tools to meet your goals
• Lead by example
• Look to the long term-the very long term
• Find the important details and focus on them
• Watch for variances from expected results
• Face reality when you look at your company and take action

King breaks down complex concepts into simple and effective action plans, helping you profit from her extensive experience and avoid common mistakes. With more than fifty worksheets and exercises to guide your implementation, Business Plans to Game Plans helps you turn your vision into a thriving business equipped to weather any market.

From the Inside Flap
"This book does something important: it takes abstractinformation and puts it in language and worksheets that make sense.This gives everyone - including top managers - a complete descriptionof how a company's performing.And there's no better tool forimproving performance than understanding." - Jack Stack, author of TheGreat Game of Business--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Business Plans to Game Plans: A Practical System for Turning Strategies into Action (Paperback)

Review of E-Business Technologies: Supporting the Net-Enhanced Organization (The Wiley Series on Net-Enhanced Organizations) (Hardcover)

This book does a very good job at breaking down each section in easily understandable concepts. Diagrams are designed to be intuitive and instructional, and the various charts are helpful as well.Many high-level industry examples are provided throughout the book to highlight key points, whereas review questions and exercises will help readers confirm their comprehension.In summary, the book is great for students and people who wish to familiarize themselves with e-business, and can be used as training course material.

Product Description
Allows the reader to be an active participant in the planning, analysis, development, and implementation of e-business environments as they enter the job market.

From the Back Cover
Understand the technologies that enable e-business

If you want to understand what is happening in the world of e-business today and tomorrow, you'll need a solid understanding of the technologies underlying e-business and how they fit together. That's why Craig Van Slyke and France Bélanger's E-BUSINESS TECHNOLOGIES: Supporting the Net-Enhanced Organization focuses on the technologies that enable e-business. This new volume in NEO: The Wiley Series on Net-Enhanced Organizations prepares you to actively participate in the planning, analysis, development, and implementation of e-business environments as you enter the job market.

Critical acclaim

"The material and way in which it was written actually makes the material exciting to read. I found myself, in general, being drawn into the material, something that hasn't happened in years."
-William J. Tastle, Ithaca College

"The text includes a good blend of current and historical perspectives. It also contains a broad view of the topic of e-business that is not limited to an MIS department, but takes a fuller organizational approach."
-Fred Niederman, Saint Louis University

What's NEO?

New technologies, new strategies, new terminologies … Now there's a NEO series designed to help students respond to the latest changes and trends in the rapidly developing field of e-business. The Wiley Series on Net-Enhanced Organizations: Transforming the Organization through Internet Technologies (NEO) gives students the resources they need to develop a comprehensive understanding of e-business and its technological underpinnings-essential knowledge in the Internet age.

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Review of The Equity Trader Course (Wiley Trading) (Hardcover)

Seat-of-the-pants trading is history.Data from Neonet, an agency broker, show that over 28 percent of trades in U.S. stock markets are the result of automated trading strategies.The Boston-based Tabb Group forecasts 34 percent annual growth in global money managers' use of trading algorithms.

So, in an industry increasingly governed by computerization, algorithmic trading, and fully electronic markets, an appreciation of the theory and operations of equity trading is critically important.A new book from Bruce Weber, Professor of Information Management at London Business School, along with Professor Robert A. Schwartz of Baruch College in New York, and Reto Francioni, CEO of Deutsche Börse, offers a comprehensive course in equity trading for professional and serious independent traders.

The world's equity trading markets are large, complicated, and constantly evolving.In this new book, The Equity Trader Course, Professor Weber and his co-authors manage to give a comprehensive overview of the final, critical step in turning market ideas into realized profits.Even in the richest and deepest markets in the world, liquidity is costly, and hidden trading costs can erode profits.Salient advice in the book covers how to place orders optimally, how to react to volatility, and ways to avoid moving the market when buying or selling.

The book includes insights into trading, liquidity pools, and markets, and tools to apply when using auctions, submitting limit orders, and measuring trader performance.The role of technical analysis and the advantages of algorithmic trading are covered. Each chapter of the book teaches both novice and experienced traders how to be adaptive and successful in their purchasing and selling decisions.The Equity Trader Course comes with a companion CD containing the TraderEx simulation, which walks readers through the dynamics of various market structures, and the mechanics of trading - from entering orders to monitoring the market, and profitably exiting a position.

Created 1 June 2006

Product Description
Get a comprehensive course in equity trading with this book and CD-ROM combination. Providing in-depth insight and practical knowledge, the authors walk you through the dynamics of this market and the mechanics of trading -- from entering a trade to following the market and profitably exiting a position. The companion TraderEx CD-ROM features a computer-driven trade simulator that offers hands-on experience in making tactical trading decisions in different market situations. Each chapter of the book works in combination with the simulation software so both novice and experienced traders learn to be versatile and successful in their purchasing and selling decisions.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Equity Trader Course (Wiley Trading) (Hardcover)

Review of PC Upgrade & Repair Simplified, 2nd Edition (Paperback)

I have checked several "pc upgrade" books which are in great details but vague. This one has only 225 pages and the best thing of this book is that it practically shows you with images rather than giving you more technical info to make it more complicated. That's why I found it so easy....! to follow. If you really want to learn how to repair or upgrade your pc, then save some money and buy this one.

Product Description
The premier full-color guide to PC upgrade and repair is back -- and better than ever! Now updated to cover all of the latest technologies, from Pentium III and USB to Firewire and DVD drives, this book remains the easiest guide available for visually oriented PC do-it-yourselfers, with more than 1,000 step-by-step illustrations accompanied by short, to-the-point captions.

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