Book Review - Courage After Fire

Change takes courage! This book carries that message by identifying areas in which change is common for service members and their families after a deployment. Chapters present case studies of common reactions to war and combat experiences and offer suggestions and exercises to help overcome the negative aspects of these reactions. Considerable discussion is given to changes that service members undergo when deployed as well as changes that may occur in family or work environments that they have left behind. The authors provide some explanation of why these changes may have occurred and provide guidance for reestablishing effective communication, avoiding conflicts, and establishing a new sense of normality and routine. This book is valuable to anyone who experiences long separations from loved ones or who frequently experiences change. The skills that this book offers are valuable to everyone who wants to better understand themselves and their own motivations as well as to communicate and form more effective partnerships with those around them.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Courage After Fire: Coping Strategies for Troops Returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and Their Families
Keith Armstrong, Suzanne Best, and Paula Domenici
RC 550 .A74 2006

Book Review - The General

This classic novel by C.S. Forester depicts life as an officer within the British Army between the World Wars. Although this is a work of fiction, the cultural setting is undeniably based on the history and traditions of the British colonial military. Many literary and historical scholars also assert that the main character, Herbert Curzon, is a composite of Field Marshall John French and Field Marshall Douglas Haig. Because of its strong basis in fact, this novel has been required reading for military officers and students from the time of Hitler to the present. While Forester writes critically about the way the British carried out World War I, he frames the descisions as coming from the often insular social context and rigid hierarchy of the British colonial military system. He explains that personal loyalties most often were tied to a regiment rather that to the nation or the army as a whole and where an officers rank and social station were tied not only to his intellectual abilities, but also to his family's wealth and social standing. With the swelling of the ranks and devastating losses in World War I, this complicated structure was quickly replaced by soldiers motivated to defend their country, many of whom did not plan on military careers. This is a story not only about military cultures or the power of a strong individual, but also about social and cultural change and how it is often brought about by war.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

The General
C.S. Forester
PR 6011 .O56 G4 1982

Book Review - Environmental Deterioration of Materials

The amount of pollution that is constantly being added to the air, water, and ground not only affects the environment, but also has an impact on human-made materials and structures in our built world. At the same time, our society is increasingly recognizing the value of preserving what we have made. This book provides textbook-like explanations of the effects that pollution has on the most important and widely used building materials including brick, stone, concrete, wood, and a variety of metals. It discusses how these materials deteriorate and what effects their failure can have on the structures in which they are used. At the same time, the book offers preservation and protection techniques that can be used on buildings, bridges, industrial and agricultural structures, and other structures of lasting value or importance. This book will be of interest to engineers, particularly those who deal with materials and structures, but also to architects, preservationists, and environmentalists.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Environmental Deterioration of Materials
ed. by A. Moncmanova
TA 418.74 .E59 2007

Book Review - We Carry Each Other

Most of us know someone who is a care-giver. This book is a handbook for us, teaching us how to talk to, assist, and support these care-givers. It offers care-givers advice on how to care for themselves and how to ask for help from others. It also provides suggestions on tangible ways for us to make a difference in the lives of those living with illnesses or those grieving the loss of a loved one. Most importantly, it provides guidance on how to talk to the ill or bereaved without offending them and show how the smallest gestures and demonstrations of friendship can have tremendous impact on someone else's self-esteem and sense of hope.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

We Carry Each Other: Getting Through Life's Toughest Times
Sharon and Eric Langshur with Mary Beth Sammons
R 726.8 .L36 2007

Book Review - Inside Terrorism

This book is a seminal text on the historical development of terrorism and the mind of terrorists. In this revised edition, Hoffman updates his first edition to include detailed information about al Queda and other new terrorist groups, including their recruiting techniques, motivations, and tactics. Hoffman provides more than a simple analysis of these groups, probing the possible consequences of an insurgency in Iraq, terrorist's exploitation of contemporary and emerging communications technologies, and the possibilities of terrorists use of biological, chemical, nuclear, or radiological weapons. He also discusses extremist groups within the United States. He is particularly interested in the role that they have played in American understanding of and interpretation of threats by terrorist groups abroad and how they are perceived since the increase of attention on global terrorism.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Inside Terrorism
Bruce Hoffman
Rev. and Expanded ed.
HV 6431 .H626 2006

Book Review - Savage Wars of Peace

Conflicts that have not been declared as "wars" have made up the majority of the military engagements that have involved the United States. Surprisingly, though, the American military has resisted preparing for conflicts at this scale, instead training for large-scale war. This book is, in part, an history of the small armed conflicts in which the United States has been involved from 1800 through the 1990s. It is also an analysis and criticism of American small wars doctrine, particularly as it has been applied in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Regardless, Boot brings to the foreground a part of American military history that often is ignored and unexamined.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

The Savage Wars of Peace: Small Wars and the Rise of American Power
Max Boot
E 181 .B728 2003

Book Review - Climate Confusion

What does science tell us about global warming? Spencer, himself an environmental scientist, says that much of what we are told, especially by the media and by politicians, is hype or poorly understood. He asserts that belief in global warming--its speed, severity, and wide-ranging natural disasters that are believed to be caused by it--has escalated to religious proportions. Because of this, he believes, both scientists and policy officials take drastic action to protect the environment, often considering the well-being of the human population as a distant second. He states that most of the actions currently being taken to curtail or delay global warming will be largely ineffective because they are based on a capitalist economic model and therefore require poor nations to halt energy-intensive development activities while at the same time asking rich nations to substitute research into alternative energy development for current wealth-accumulating activities. This is unlikely to occur because it is against human nature. Spencer asserts that global warming will continue into the future, and that if a real threat exists because of global warming, the new technologies and energy sources are the only possible solutions for us.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Climate Confusion: How Global Warming Hysteria Leads to Bad Science, Pandering Politicians, and Misguided Policies that Hurt the Poor
Roy W. Spencer
QC 981.8 G56 S645 2008

Book Review - Project Management for Mere Mortals

This combination of printed materials and video instruction divide the content of a project management course into digestible segments. Each lesson is self-contained and provides clear explanations and practical application of project management skills. Using a "live" case study, this program goes through all phases of project management, from planning a project to fiishing one, and provides guidance on scheduling and budgeting, building teams, managing changes, and more. This LiveLessons format is geared toward those who need to learn project management skills, but do not have the time to attend a course in person.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Project Management for Mere Mortals: The Tools, Techniques, Teaming, and Politics of Project Management
Claudia M. Baca
HD 69 .P75 B325 2008 DVD

Book Review - Sustainability Handbook

This handbook discusses the benefits of sustainable practices for all types of organizations. It provides guidance on how organizations can reach for economic, social, and environmental sustainability. It provides suggested policies, ethical and behavioral codes, and metrics which can be used as organizations are moving toward sustainable practices. At the same time, it provides wealth of reference materials. The first half of the guide is focused toward CEOs and other senior organizational leaders. It encourages them to define the scope of their sustainability activities, plan a route to achieve their goals, and select appropriate measures to determine their progress and success. The second half of the book provides guidance specific to different types of organizations, including NGOs, government organizations, academic institutions and for-profit companies. This book is a practical guide as well as a helpful reference book.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

The Sustainability Handbook
William R. Blackburn
HC 110 .E5 B563 2007

Book Review - Worst Cases

Some people fear catastrophic disasters--a meteor hitting New York City, an earthquake disloding coastal cities such as Los Angeles from the rest of California, or a nuclear explosion killing all living things within a specific region. Clarke asserts that it is only a few extremists who immagine situations at this level. At the same time, less extreme events--typhoons, hurricanes, disease epidemics, and other natural and man-made disasters--seem to be occurring with greater frequency. Clarke believes that the increase in these lower level events is desensitizing societies, leaving them less shocked even as damage levels increase. As the severity of disasters rise, however, the possibility of a catastrophic disaster becomes an increasingly realistic. Clark discusses the conflict resulting from more information being available to society and its leaders, but at the same time, people's unwillingness to heed appropriate warnings and to give them appropriate attention. This book is intended as a wake up call, bringing attention to consequences that that we may believe are impossible.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Worst Cases: Terror and Catastrophe in the Popular Imagination
Lee Clarke
HV 551.2 .C533 2006

Book Review - The Leaders We Need

This book approaches the topic of leadership from the point of view of the followers. Maccoby shows that most people follow a leader because their style and personal qualities are the right fit for a specific situation, not because the leader posesses certain traits or behavior patterns. He asserts that the paternalistic and autocratic leadership styles of the past are not appropriate for today's business demands or social culture. Instead, he suggests that successful leaders must be able to engage and interact with their followers in a collaborative, team approach. Maccoby bring not only professional training as a psychoanalyst and anthropologist to his interpretation, but uses anecdotes from health care organizations, fortune 500 companies, and government organizations to support his conclusions. This book offers an unusual perspective on and approach to the subject of leadership.

This book is available in HECSA Library:

The Leaders We Need and What Makes Us Follow
Michael Maccoby
HM 1261 .M317 2007

Book Review - Separated by Duty, United in Love

This guide offers advice for military couples on how to deal with periods of separation. Vandevoorde describes the challenges of being apart from a loved one from a variety of perspectives. She shares her personal experiences as a former solder and as a military wife as well as relaying the reactions and comments of other servicemen and women and their spouses. As if walking a couple through the separation, Vandevoorde's book begins with the relationship challenges faced in the last few days before the military member leaves as well as the emotional stages that both partners go through during the separation. She discusses some of the biggest challenges that military famililes face during separations--communicating with one another, budgeting, taking care of children, and being tempted by infidelity. She offers time-tested approaches to overcoming these challenges as well as tips on handling careers, minor emergencies, and the wear and tear of everyday life. Like the departure, she states that the return of a loved one is also stressful for everyone in the family, and offers strategies for smoothing the transition and finding "normal" again. Finally, she discusses the strength that many military families find in religion and the support that they draw from one another, during separations as well as when loved ones do not return home. This practical book can be helpful to servicemen and women and their spouses regardless of their prior experience with being separated from one another.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Separated by Duty, United in Love: A Guide to Long-Distance Relationships for Military Couples
Shellie Vandevoorde
U 21.5 .V36 2006

Book Review - Blue Covenant

How did the world's most essential natural resource become so threatened? This is the question that Barlow attempts to answer in this book. She describes the shortage of clean water now occuring in isolated locations around the world, indicating that if current trends continue, this water shortage will magnify into large-scale resource wars. She discusses the current state of the world's freshwater resources, the growing control of and profits generated from this resource by private companies, and actions that people around the world are taking in order to obtain and secure their access to sufficient water supplies. She frames this water shortage in the context of other environmental issues, particularly global warming, asserting that these two issues pose the greatest threat to human survival. Following in the tradition of Rachel Carson's Silent Spring and Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth, she proposes changes in water use, commerce, and governance in order to prevent further water shortages.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Blue Covenant: The Global Water Crisis and the Comiing Battle for the Right to Water
Maude Barlow
HD 1691 .B366 2008

Book Review - Rethinking Science, Technology, and Social Change

This book questions and challenges many ideas about the relationships between science, technology, and society. Schroeder begins by stating that many previous scholars have argued that society and its priorities direct scientific discoveries and subsequent technological implementations of them. Schroeder disagrees, arguing instead that science and technological capabilities have a "life" or direction of their own. He asserts that technology, then, has effects on society through its economic consumption and the political ramifications of the power it provides and its regulation. Essentially, this book questions the cause and effect relationship between science and technology on one hand and social organizations and social change on the other. This book is not likely to end this debate, but the discussion should be of interest to everyone involved in scientific or technological pursuits.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Rethinking Science, Technology, and Social Change
Ralph Schroeder
Q 175.5 .S2996 2007

Book Review - Life in the Chesapeake Bay

This beautifully illustrated guide provides identification, description, and habitat information about the plants and animals that live in America's largest estuary. The guide begins with an overview of the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay and a discussion of the classifications of species that are found there. Subsequent chapters are organized by ecological regions, including sand beaches, shallow waters, wetlands, and deep open waters. Because of this organization, the interaction of individual species with each other and their role in the ecosystem emerges. Drawings, color pictures, and physical and behavioral descriptions enable individual species to be identified. This book is an important resource for scientists working in the Chesapeake region, but it would also be valuable for fishermen, birdwatchers, and other hobbyists who want to better understand the plants and animals around them.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Life in the Chesapeake Bay
3rd ed.
Alice Jane Lippson and Robert L. Lippson
QH 104.5 .C45 L56 2006

Book Review - Career Success in Engineering

Today, successful engineers must balance the theoretical and technical information learned in school with practical skills such as project management, leadership and teamwork, professional ethics, continuing education, and professional growth. This book designed for engineering students and early career professionals offers practical advice for selecting a career path and getting a job. Once employed, it provides guidance on professional responsibilities, communication skills required on the job, and background on financial issues that affect design and construction projects. Licensing, continuing education, and professional development activities are discussed, placed in the context of career advancement. The final chapter collects information about project management, teamwork, legal and regulatory issues, codes and standards, and contracts that will be constant themes in the working life of a practicing engineer.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Career Success in Engineering: A Guide for Students and New Professionals
Bernard R. Berson and Douglas E. Benner
TA 157 .B447 2007

Book Review - Lessons of Disaster

During every disaster, public officials question what can be done to prevent it from happening again. Inquiries and investigations after the fact often uncover problems or unpreparedness, and reports are written in order to record "lessons" that can be "learned" from these situations. Birkland looks critically at this process and examines whether the "lessons" are really internalized by governments and that the information "learned" is put to practical use. He begins by putting forward a model of how learning occurs and how policy changes are made. This model is then tested by examining airline and homeland security, earthquakes, and hurricanes using the events of 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina as a starting point. At the end of each chapter, the analysis is summed up and some conclusions are made. The final chapter, however, reassesses the learning model. It asserts that lessons are not really being learned because little real policy change is occurring as a result.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Lessons of Disaster: Policy Change after Catastrophic Events
Thomas A. Birkland
JK 468 .P64 B585 2006

Book Review - Dirt

This book explores the history of soil usage throughout human history. Montgomery argues that people are using up their dirt. Through intense cultivation, we are gradually using up the nutrients in fertile soil. When the land does not have protective vegetation, wind and rain lead to gradual, often imperceptible erosion. Montgomery argues that as dirt runs out, we will be unable to grow food that supports our survival. This unusual book shows how dirt and agricultural lifestyles helped to shape human societies and how the shift to an urban lifestyle has altered our relationship with the land. This book will force readers to look at dirt, one of the most ubiquitous materials around us, in a new light.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Dirt: The Erosion of Civilizations
David R. Montgomery
S 590.7 .M66 2007

Book Review - Moving a Nation to Care

This book is intended to raise awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder. Since our nation has been at war, an increasing number of soldiers are returning from Iraq and Afghanistan suffering from depression, sleep and anxiety disorders, and overusing alcohol or drugs. This book presents the symptoms of PTSD so that they are easily recognizable and provides background especially oriented for those outside the military community to help them understand the origins and consequences of this complex problem. Meagher uses the personal stories of soldiers to illustrate the devastating effects of PTSD on these individuals and their families. She also describes how the military health care establishment and Veterans Administration is falling short in the identification and treatment of this condition. Meagher's intention with this book is to bring this failing to light so that the American public will be moved to improve the treatment of the men and women who protect their freedoms.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Moving a Nation to Care: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and America's Returning Troops
Ilona Meagher
RC 552 .P67 M43 2007

Book Review - Learning to Eat Soup with a Knife

This book considers the question of how armies adapt to changing times and prepare for future conflicts. Nagl, an armor officer and instructor on national security studies, compares the development of counterinsurgency doctrine and practices used by the British in Malayan Emergency between 1948 and 1960 to that used by the Americans in the Vietnamese Conflict from 1950 to 1975. He asserts that organizational culture is a key factor is the ability to learn from unanticipated circumstances. It is this factor, he believes, which allowed the British to be successful against the Malayan insurgents while American efforts to quell the uprising in Vietnam failed. Nagl applies these lessons along with his experiences in the Gulf War and the current Iraq War. In the introduction to this paperback edition, Nagl highlights places where his combat experiences upheld the conclusions that he drew from history's examples. At the same time, he points out details that he underestimated or where his assessments did not quite capture the sophistication or difficulty of real life change. Nagl's work is well grounded with thorough academic research and peppered with the wisdom that comes from experience. This is a must read, both for combat leaders but also for policy and decision makers who must also be part of change when it occurs.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Learning to Eat Soup with a Knife: Counterinsurgency Lessons from Malaya and Vietnam
John A. Nagl
DS 597 .N27 2005

Book Review - Effective Work Breakdown Structures

This book from the Project Management Essential Library is full of practical suggestions for organizing and ordering the pieces of a project. It asks the project manager to conceive of the project in different ways. For example, a project can be broken down into component tasks, products, or based on some physical features. Haugan suggests that each of these structural organizations be considered and evaluated based on their cost and efficiency, taking into account task sharing and the reality that some tasks must be completed before others can be started. This book is full of visuals--charts, diagrams, and checklists--that make it easy to understand and to apply to real project situations. This is a quick read and is highly recommended, particularly for those already using PMBOK terminology and processes to manage projects.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Effective Work Breakdown Structures
Gregory T. Haugan
HD 69 .P75 H377 2002

Book Review - Dry Spring

This book focuses on the effects of global warming on the world's water supplies. As temperatures rise, the amount of water suitable for drinking declines. Not only are existing sources evaporating faster, changing weather patterns indicate that aquifers are not being replenished fast enough. We're simply using more water. Wood demonstrates how the decreasing water supply will affect us, particularly in North America, over the next 25 years. He asserts that those closest to river origins, in many cases Canadians or the residents of the northernmost U.S. states, will be using a higher percentage of water, while those further downstream will increasingly face drought conditions. At the same time, other parts of the world will be pounded with rain and devastated by flooding. After explaining the causes of the coming water crisis and predicting how it will play out in the coming years, Wood uses the last few chapters of the book to make suggestions about what we can do, both to lessen the severity of the coming water shortage and to survive it once it gets here.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Dry Spring: The Coming Water Crisis of North America
Chris Wood
TD 222 .W65 2008

Book Review - Fields of Fire

This novel launched the writing career of retired Marine James Webb. Webb was wounded in Vietnam and was decorated for his efforts. Based on his own experiences, he tells a story of a platoon of young Marines. They face a forbidding tropical jungle environment in which they must operate and a seemingly invisible enemy to fight against. At the same time, their mission lacks support and understanding at home. This celebrated novel has been recognized for its ability to convey the inherent conflict in war--abhorrence of destruction and loss of life while at the same time seeing attraction to war as a test of survival and opportunity to prove one's self. Based on actual events, this novel conveys the feelings and experiences of individual soldiers and functional units during the Vietnam War.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Fields of Fire: The Classic Novel of the Vietnam War
James Webb
PS 3573 .E1955 F5 2000

Book Review - Slowing Down to the Speed of Life

The hectic pace of life today has increased stress and had negative effects on people's physical health and happiness. Carlson and Bailey assert that by changing the way you think about your life and the events going on around you, you can feel like you are slowing down your life. Using anecdotes from their own lives and the experiences of patients and friends, the authors suggest simple techniques to stop your mind from spinning in destructive spirals and focus on the present moment instead. They also offer a similar strategy for reducing stress. Carlson and Bailey argue that most stress is generated by the way that we think. By changing our own opinions and thinking processes, they believe that much of our stress can be avoided or relieved. After presenting the basic principles of this practice, a school of thought called Psychology of the Mind, the authors concentrate on how these strategies apply to relationships, parenting, the work environment, and having an enjoyable and fulfilling life.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Slowing Down to the Speed of Life: How to Create a More Peaceful, Simpler Life from the Inside Out

Richard Carlson & Joseph Bailey

BF 637 .T5 C37 1997

Book Review - Healing Crisis and Trauma

This book explains how people react to traumatic experiences, both psychologically and physically. It helps caregivers understand the reactions or people who experience trauma and suggests ways in which they can help guide others toward healing. While much of this book discusses trauma in general terms, two chapters focus particularly on women's reactions to trauma and the reactions of patients with life-threatening illnesses such as cancer. Wainrib discusses the "Phoenix Phenomenon," an explanation for why some individuals who experience trauma show resilience and go on to rebuild their lives, while others experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. She discusses the role of the physical body, the mind, and spirituality in healing after traumatic experiences and offers suggestions to caretakers and those who have experienced trauma on how to move beyond their trauma and heal.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Healing Crisis and Trauma with Mind, Body, and Spirit
Barbara Rubin Wainrib
RC 552 .P67 W32 2006

Book Review - With Speed and Violence

Pearce, an environmental science journalist, shares his increasing concern about global warming through this book. He writes that the more he learns about scientific predictions for environmental change, the worse things look. If any one clear message is conveyed through this book, it is that scientific predictions are uncertain. Pearce presents the complexity of global warming in a way that makes science approachable. He first presents some historical background on global climate study, discussing research that investigates the planet using core sampling as well as efforts to document climate and oceanography in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Most parts of the book address different components of the climate change system: melting ice, deforestation and increasing carbon in the atmosphere, and fuel use contributions to warming temperatures. He combines these themes with information about geomorphology to analyze the cycle of ice ages and warming trends. He studies the balance of climate experiences within the earth system, showing how desert in Africa balances rain forest in South America, and looking at the effects of ocean behavior such as monsoons and El Nino phenomenon on terrestrial weather. The last two sections summarize the science, but conclude that the present climate situation is a turning point unlike past climate changes. Several possible tipping points are considered. Pearce clearly sends the message that everyone should be concerned about global climate change and that society needs to take immediate actions to turn us away from these tipping points. This book is based on a great depth of scientific research, but citations to that body of work are few for those who want to read further on this topic.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

With Speed and Violoence: Why Scientists Fear Tipping Points in Climate Change
Fred Pearce
QC 981.8 .C5 P415 2008

Book Review - Life After Deployment

This book highlights that post-deployment reunions, though a joyful time, are periods of change that may be difficult for each family member. Pavlicin offers humorous idea and survival strategies based on her own professional experience and passes along suggestions from servicemen and their families whom she interviewed. The introduction in many ways serves as the summary for the book. Pavlicin emphasizes keeping a sense of humor, allowing each family to make time for themself, communicating openly about everything, and taking time to adjust to the new situation. Other chapters focus on individual themes in post-deployment life. Three chapters address aspects of the immediate changes after coming home: the first meeting with someone who has been away, adjusting to each other's daily life routines, and dealing with the stressful situations that will arise. Other chapters discuss caring for wounded warriors and grieving for those who don't return home. The last chapter suggests strategies for moving forward with the rest of your life, including building new connections and relationships. A lengthy appendix lists books, military resources, and other organizations that provide information and support for military families or offer resources and assistance to those with anger, depression or PTSD symptoms, wounded warriors, or those suffering from grief. This is a practical guide which will give families lots of idea about places to look for support.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Life After Deployment: Military Families Share Reunion Stories and Advice
Karen M. Pavlicin
UB 403 .P35 2007

Book Review - George Washington on Leadeship

This innovative biography of George Washington examines the his efforts in the context of the colonial era, but discusses them in modern language. Brookheiser examines the challenges that Washington faced and brings out the personal and leadership qualities that allowed him to succeed. He factors in his military experience, political success, and financial savvy. From a modern perspective, Washington directed two start-ups--the army and the presidency--serving as CEO of both. He also chaired the most important meeting in American history--the Constitutional Convention--establishing him as a leader among leaders. Brookheiser paints Washington as a true renaissance man--a successful farmer yet an aristocrat, a clear communicator and likable as well as effective personnel manager, a practical man who could tackle the military and political problems around him yet a man with foresight about the challenges of the future. This treatment of Washington as a modern businessman will make history come alive for readers.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

George Washington on Leadership
Richard Brookheiser
E 312.17 .B85 2008

Book Review - Next Catastrophe

Perrow's perspective on accidents differs from the dominant view and offers a new way of thinking a bout disaster preparedness. He believes that multiple and unexpected crises are built into our society's complex system. Rather than emphasizing how to protect the existing targets, he asserts that our effort should be focused on minimizing potential damage and reducing the attractiveness of targets to possible attackers. Perrow discusses three types of catastrophes--natural disasters, organizational crises, and deliberate attacks--and suggests that the best way to reduce the possible impact is to disperse populations, corporations, critical infrastructures such as energy, water, and information systems. He states that the possibility for disaster is increasing, whether because of terrorist attacks, natural disasters, or industrial accidents, and explains why federal and local agencies are not prepared to handle this. Perrow writes with academic authority but the current relevancy of his subject will make this book of interest.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

The Next Catastrophe: Reducing Our Vulnerabilities o Natural, Industrial, and Terrorist Disasters
Charles Perrow
HV 551.3 .P45 2007

Book Review - Your Military Family Network

This practical handbook covers a wide range of benefits, services and other resources available to military families. Among the topics that are discussed here are money matters, moving, food, fitness, medical care, marriage and family concerns, education, employment, legal issues, veterans benefits, and deployment concerns. This book is full of suggestions "from the field" and is written by soldiers, spouses, and civilians who have years of experience with family support concerns. Appendices provide information about service specific programs for all branches of the Armed Forces, resources available in each of the states, and businesses that are particularly friendly and supportive toward military personnel. This is an invaluable resource.

This book can be found at HECSA Library:

Your Military Family Network: Your Connection to Military Friendly Resources, Benefits, Information, Businesses and Advice
The Military Family Network
UB 403 .Y78 2008

Book Review - Organizational Culture and Leadership

This book attempts to define and understand the components of organizational culture and to show how it can be changed by determined leaders. The first part of the book defines both organizational culture and leadership, and explains how culture evolves within a new group. The second part analyzes organizational culture in depth. Most chapters discuss the assumptions that group members make about certain cultural characteristics. The third part discusses the role of leaders in building and adapting culture. Both case studies and conceptual models of organizational change are used to demonstrate the processes involved and the time that this kind of change likely involves. This is the third edition of a classic text on organizational culture.

This book can be found at HECSA Library:

Organizational Culture and Leadership
3rd Ed.
Edgar H. Schein
HD 58.7 .S33 2004

Book Review - Global Outlook for Ice & Snow

This is not simply a book about ice and snow. Certainly, it discusses in depth the polar regions and changes in ice and snow that are occurring there. However, this is really a scientific study of systems that include ice and snow. Early chapters provide historical background on ice and snow and explain how polar regions are studied. Ice and snow are both analyzed in depth. The second half of the book discusses the role of ice and snow within larger systems. As ice and snow melt, plant and animal habitats diminish, people are affected, the environment changes, ocean waters rise, and islands begin to disappear. Scientists agree that the cause and effect relationships here are complex, often feeding on one another. The consequences of changes in ice and snow are considered, as current trends are examined and the outlook for this century and beyond are projected. This book is global in its scope and presents environmental science in a way that is approachable for non-scientists.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Global Outlook for Ice & Snow
United Nations Environment Programme
QC 926.32 .G59 2007

Book Review - Insurgents, Terrorists, and Militias

Since the end of the Cold War, most armed conflict can be best described as asymmetric--a small, agile group which employs varied and often brutal tactics against a large, well-armed, technologically superior traditional fighting force. Because this trend seems to be growing and spreading geographically, it is increasingly important to understand these unconventional groups, their motivations, and the tactics that they use. Shultz and Dew investigate the history and political climate of today's asymmetrical warfare. Focusing on four regions where this type of fighting is widespread--Chechnya, Somalia, Afghanistan, and Iraq--they probe why these groups fight, how they recruit, the fighting tactics that they use, and how they find support and haven. They also examine what advantage these groups feel that they have and how conventional forces might combat them. This is an academic study, thoroughly researched and referenced, but one which sheds light on current conflict in a systematic and thoughtful way.

This book can be found at HECSA Library:

Insurgents, Terrorists, and Militias: The Warriors of Contemporary Combat
Richard H. Schultz Jr. and Andrea J. Dew
U 240 .S34 2006

Book Review - Army Wives

"This is a true story about what happens when real life collides with army convention." Biank shares the story of four Army wives. Whether married to officers or enlisted men, Biank continually stresses that these women are not stereotypes, but rather unique, complex, resourceful, and strong individuals striving to define themselves within a culture of tradition and protocols. Biank approaches this book as an embedded reporter, both writing professionally for the Fayetteville Observer and as an Army wife and mother living at Fort Bragg. Sge reveals the support network that exists in military communities, but also shows that it has gaps and break-downs. She shows friendships between women, but also jealousy and back-biting. She exposes the pride of the Army, but also shows its secrets that many would prefer to remain hidden. The book is revealing about Army culture, but even more telling about the women who adjust their lives to accommodate it because of the love they feel for their soldier husbands.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

Army Wives: The Unwritten Code of Military Marriage
Tanya Biank
UB 403 .B53 2006

Book Review - The Reason Why

This book examines the causes of one of the most notorious military slaughters in history--the Charge of the Light Brigade during the Crimean War. Woodham-Smith places this catastrophe in multiple contexts. She discusses Great Britain as an imperial power, militarily committed throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa. She discusses the economic depression ocurring in the mid-1800's. A series of poor harvests hit Europe particularly hard. Getting no relief or assistance from the government, peasants and farmers revolted. For the British, this was felt most keenly close to home, where the Irish potato famine and resulting social upheval required increasing numbers of troops to be recalled from far flung colonies to occupy Ireland. These same poor economic conditions provided the opportunity for wealthy titled aristocrats to buy social status in the form of military commissions. If a nobleman was willing to bear the cost of outfitting a regiment, he could be given command of it with no prior military service or training. The circumstances came together during the Charge of the Light Brigade, when untrained, inxperienced commanders charged into a valley in a valient attack on their Russian adversaries. Nearly the entire unit was slaughtered by soldiers positioned in the hights all along the valley, with the leaders escaping both unscathed and unaware. This tragedy caused a change in the procedures through which officers in the British Army were selected and brought attention to the geographic overstreach of imperial Britain that required political and strategic adjustments.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

The Reason Why: The Story of the Fatal Charge of the Light Brigade
Cecil Woodham-Smith
DA 536 .C3 W6 1958

Book Review - Business Guide to Sustainability

Integrating sustainable practices into businesses and organizations is not just good for the environment, it can save the company time and money as well. Hitchcock and Willard define the concepts behind sustainability in practical terms and provide numerous examples of how these ideas can be integrated into manufacturing, business practices, and organizational behavior. In the first part, they introduce the fundamental concepts within sustainability, demonstrating its strategic goals and cautioning that a change agent or coordinator is required in most organization to keep the shift toward more sustainable practices on track. The second part offers concrete tools, tips and ideas for integrating sustainable practices. This part is divided by industry, addressing general offices and customer services, manufacturing and design, and government agencies. The third section continues to discuss practical ways to implement sustainable practices, but does so looking at traditional functions and roles within organizations such as management, facilities, human resources, purchasing, marketing, and financial management. This hands-on guide does not discuss the theories behind sustainability in much depth, but provides numerous small ways that these ideas can be used to improve businesses and organizations.

This book can be found in HECSA Library:

The Business Guide to Sustainability: Practical Strategies and Tools for Organizations
Darcy Hitchcock & Marsha Willard
HD 30.255 .H58 2006

Book Review - Combat Stress Injury

It has become clear that combat stress can be devastating to combatants and their families. This book provides an overview of the research and understanding of combat stress and how it can be effectively managed. First, chapters discuss theoretical stresses, adaptions, and injuries acquired in combat situations. Next, a sampling of research on combat stress is presented. Topics include longterm effects of combat stress, links between physical and psychological trauma, and secondary effects of combat stress on military spouses. The last half of the book discusses a variety of management approaches for post-traumatic stress disorder and other combat stress reactions. This book is written in an academic style which makes considerable use of references and bibliographies. It is intended primarily for psychological professionals.

This book can be found at HECSA Library:

Combat Stress Injury: Theory, Research, and Management
ed. by Charles R. Figley and William P. Nash
RC 550 .C66 2007

Book Review - Heroes at Home

This book celebrates the role of wives and spouses in military families. By sharing her own personal anecdotes and profiling several other military spouses whom she terms "hidden heroes," Ellie Kay unveils the complicated lives of the military community's members who manage homes and enliven their communities. Along the way, she passes on advice about how to survive in the hectic, constantly changing military environment. She suggests practical help that can be provided to military families, how to handle deployments, missed holidays, and frequent moves, balancing stress and budgets, getting involved and creating support networks. The lesson that comes through clearest of all, however, is to develop a sense of humor. Kay's writing is charming and funny, yet it rings of common sense and the wisdom of experience. This book is a must-read for anyone who knows a military family, whether or not you consider yourself a part of one.

You can find this book at HECSA Library:

Heroes at Home: Help & Hope for America's Military Families
Ellie Kay
UB 403 .K38 2002

Book Review - Judgment

Judgment is required of all effective leaders. In fact, Tichy and Bennis assert that making judgment calls and seeing their decisions through execution is the primary responsibility of leaders. The first few chapters of this book describe how they create mental frameworks from their mission, vision, values, and the knowledge that they gather. These mental frameworks are used to generate storylines that are used to share their vision, persuade others, and to discuss potential outcomes from their initiatives. Most judgment calls fall into three categories--decisions about people, choices in strategy, and dealing with crises. Each of these is discussed not only as a potential problem, but also a potential opportunity. In order to prepare future leaders to exercise wise judgment, the book also includes an extensive index, a handbook that teaches leadership judgment. This is an excellent resource for both current and future leaders.

You can find this book can be found in HECSA Library:

Judgment: How Winning Leaders Make Great Calls
Noel M. Tichy and Warren G. Bennis
HD 57.7 .T496 2007

Book Review - Limits to Growth

This book sounds the alarm about the effects that humans have on the planet. In 1972, a group of scientists used computer modeling to predict the consequences of unlimited population growth on the earth's climate and natural resources. In this edition, the intervening 30 years worth of data are added to this analysis. Chapters describe the causes of natural distruction, the role of the ozone layer in the decline of the natural environment, and the effects of technology and the international market. Two chapters speak directly to the need for sustainability and provide some tools for making this transition. This book is interesting to see how a short period can drastically change the predictions about our future as a planet.

You can find this book in HECSA Library:

Limits to Growth: The 30-Year Update
Donella Meadows, Jorgen Randers, and Dennis Meadows
HD 75.6 .M435 2004

Book Review - Natural Area Tourism

This book asserts that tourism, when planned and carefully managed, can help people gain an understanding of and appreciation for natural environments. It begins by explaining the ecology of natural areas in non-technical terms, then goes on to discuss how tourism can impact these environments. The majority of the book, however, evaluates strategies to make ecotourism sustainable, both environmentally and economically, and to provide an enjoyable, high-quality experience for visitors. These strategies consider site management, ecological interpretation, and environmental monitoring. As ecotourism grows in popularity, this book is increasingly relevant.

You can find this book in HECSA Library:

Natural Area Tourism: Ecology, Impacts, and Management
David Newsome, Susan A. Moore, and Ross K. Dowling
G 155 .A1 N43 2002

Book Review - Coping with Anxiety

Bourne and Garano offer straightforward, practical advice for coping with anxiety. This little book begins by discussing different types of anxiety, its causes, and its symptoms. Each chapter, then, offers strategies and techniques to cope with anxiety outbreaks. These suggestions include relaxing your body, relaxing your mind, thinking realistically, facing your fears directly, getting regular exercise, eat right, nurture yourself, simplify your life, stop worrying, and learn to cope with anxiety attacks on the spot. This book is useful for everyone because the strategies discussed are equally relevant to coping with stress as they are to handling anxiety and fear.

You can find this book in HECSA Library:

Coping with Anxiety
Edmund Bourne and Lorna Garano
BF 575 .A6 B68 2003

Book Review - Wind Power

Wind Power: Renewable Energy for Home, Farm, and Business
Completely Revised and Expanded Ed.
Paul Gipe
TJ 820 .G57 2004

This book surveys the entire field of wind energy. It addresses how individuals and businesses can select, buy and install a wind turbine system safely. This is the third edition of this title, originally begun in the early 1980's, but the structure remains the same. Gipe begins by explaining the terminology and functions of wind power systems and how to compare them. He then discusses how wind power can be used and discusses the details of evaluating a potential site. He discusses the potential output of wind power systems, including both scientific considerations and economic ramifications. Several chapters discuss evaluating wind power technology and selecting and purchasing a cost-effective system. Gipe evaluates the pros and cons of connecting with other utilities, particularly water, as well as going "off the grid." He then focuses on practical considerations of choosing a site, installing, and maintaining the system. Extensive appendices provide energy and power conversion charts, wind maps, comparisons of small wind turbines, listings of manufacturers and organizations who provide information on wind power, glossaries, and a bibliography. This book discusses not only the theory and potential uses of wind energy, but is full of practical information for those who want to use it to power their own homes or businesses.

Book Review - Dealing with Your Anger

Dealing with Your Anger: Self-Help Solutions for Men
Frank Donovan
BF 575 .A5 D66 2001

Donovan offers suggestions to help men recognize the signals of anger and control anger outbursts, especially those that result in violence. He focuses on practical tools that help control and change behaviors caused by anger as well as to learn to heal emotionally. In the first part of the book, Donovan focuses on dealing with anger, particularly defining and identifying it. In the second part, he begins to examine what causes men to get angry and how to deflate some of the emotional causes. Third, he suggests ways to prevent, release and control anger responses as well as how to recognize approaching anger. Finally, he proposes healthy and productive ways to channel anger and its associated emotions. Although written as a self-help guide for men, the anecdotes and case studies that are used to illustrate the points throughout this book are equally useful for women, whether struggling with their own anger issues or seeking to understand a man in their life.

Book Review - Environmental History of Water

Environmental History of Water - Global views on community water supply and sanitation
Petri S. Juuti, Tapio S. Katko, and Keikki S. Vuorinen
TD 215 .E585 2007

This book is really a social history of water and its role in civilizations. The first part describes early irrigation systems as well as water supply innovations in Greece, Rome, and early Europe. The second part moves the discussion into the early modern era. During this time, sanitation became a concern and water supplies had to be controlled and in many cases, urbanized. The third part discusses the role of water in the modern era. While historical concerns about infrastructure, sanitation, and sufficient supply have not gone away, new concerns about water conservation, environmental cleanliness, and geopolitical fights over sufficient water supply have further complicated this picture. This is an interesting book which includes case studies from around the world.

Book Review - The Military Family

The Military Family: A Practice Guide for Human Service Providers
ed by James A. Martin, Leora N. Rosen, and Linette R. Sparacino
UB 403 .M54 2000

This is a textbook intended for care givers who work with military families. This compilation provides background on the culture and demands of the military, and brings out issues and concerns which are specific to military families. The first section discusses the culture and conditions of military families. Special attention is given here to Guard and Reserve personnel, junior enlisted families, and the role of senior officer's spouses. The second section addresses some of the unique characteristics of military family life, particularly wartime and separation during deployment. The third section raises family advocacy issues that are particularly applicable in military families, discussing abuse issues and new parenthood. The fourth section focuses on the effects of military life on children of all ages. This is an essential guide for care giving professionals who work with military personnel. It is written in an academic, but not technical style, making it accessible to interested general readers as well.

Book Review - Igniting Gen B and Gen V

Igniting Gen B & Gen V: The New Rules of Engagement for Boomers, Veterans, and Other Long-Termers on the Job
Nancy S. Alrichs
HF 5549.5 L66 A35 2007

As the millenial generation begins to enter the workforce in significant numbers, considerable effort is being given to discussions of how they operate and how to best engage them. Alrichs' book however, is the beginning of what this blogger hopes will be a larger conversation about how to regenerate excitement among those who have been in the workplace many years. Alrichs focuses on the Baby Boomer or Veteran generations, many of whom are beginning to retire or cut back their workplace participation. In the first part of the book, she raises the question of whether simply showing up for work equals engagement. She asserts that efforts must be given toward regenerating interest and excitement in long time workers, suggesting that workers only put forward efforts in areas that are rewarded. In the second part, she questions the retention focus of many human relations departments, instead stating that organizations should be more concerned with producing results. She discusses the role of knowledge management activities to capture what people know and to develop competencies that allow individuals to grow and develop throughout their careers, enabling them to continually increase their effectiveness. She also addresses the role of organizational culture in providing purpose and rewarding employees for their efforts.

Book Review - Down Range

Down Range: To Iraq and Back
Bridget C. Cantrell and Chuck Dean
RC 552 .P67 C36 2005

This book is intended to help troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan face the challenges and changes that re-integrating into civilian life will bring. Traumatic stress specialist Cantrell and Vietnam veteran Dean team up to provide information and resources to soldiers and their families for the post-combat feelings and behaviors they experience. Chapters specifically address Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, nightmares, guilt, depression, distrust, returning to work, and reuniting with family members. This practical, easy to understand book will help combat veterans understand their experiences and assist their loved ones in caring for and supporting them.

Book Review - International Handbook of Earthquake & Engineering Seismology

International Handbook of Earthquake & Engineering Seismology
Edited by William H.K. Lee, Hiroo Kanamori, Paul C. Jennings, and Carl Kisslinger
QE 534.3 .I68 2003

This encyclopedic work captures our knowledge of earthquakes, seismology, and related hazard mitigation to date. It contains article-length chapters written by engineering and earth science scholars, biographies of seismologists and engineers, and a glossary of terms and their usages in this field. Two CDs included with the text include additional reports, scholarly publications, and digital images. This is bound to be a valuable reference source for many years to come.

Book Review - When the War Came Home

When the War Came Home: The Inside Story of Reservists and the Families they Leave Behind
Stacy Bannerman
DS 79.764 .U6 B36 2006

Bannerman brings attention to the oft-forgotten role that Reservists play in the actions of the United States Military. Based on her own personal feelings and experiences, Bannerman explores the challenges of Army Reserve personnel kept in active duty status by the administration's stop-loss order, yet unprepared physically and mentally to wage war. She discusses the internal conflict of these troops, many of whom never expected to fight, as well as those of their families who are forced to make many sacrifices even though they may be, like herself, opposed to war. This book will help military families realize that they are not alone and that others share their feelings and frustrations. It should also be read by those who aren't involved with the military, however, so that society at large understands and appreciates the loyalty and sacrifices made not only by service men and women, but also by their families.

Book Review - Why should the Boss Listen to You?

Why Should the Boss Listen to You? The Seven Disciplines of the Trusted Strategic Advisor
James E. Lukaszewski
HD 69 .C6 L855 2008

There are many books written today about how to be an effective leader, but this book informs readers about a specific leadership role--that of the chief adviser to the boss or CEO. Lukaszewski asserts that this trusted adviser has responsibilities and characteristics distinct from other leaders within the organization. In this two part book, he shows how to develop these traits. In the first part of the book, he provides the context in which this advising will take place. He provides insight into how those at the top think and operate. He discusses what they expect from their advisers and gives advice on how to achieve maximum effectiveness as an adviser. In the second part, he elaborates on seven personality traits and behaviors that successful advisers possess and provides tips on how to cultivate them. Although this book provides preparation for a specific role, it is useful for all leaders to help them improve their persuasiveness and effectiveness.

Book Review - Greening of the U.S. Military

The Greening of the U.S. Military: Environmental Policy, National Security, and Organizational Change
Robert F. Durant
TD 195 .A75 D87 2007

Durant chronicles the efforts to incorporate environmental policies into the Department of Defense from the George H. W. Bush administration to the current one. Based on interviews and extensive research through documents, reports, and other written materials, Durant reveals that efforts to "green" the U.S. Military have involved considerable controversy and debate. He focuses on the needs of the military to comply with national and international laws concerning the environment and natural resources, which often requires change in policies, procedures and thinking within the organizations. Much of the debate centers around the speed, depth, and methods by which these procedural and cultural changes should take place. Adopting a "green" outlook is also seen as somewhat foreign to the military, particularly during times of hostile conflict. Detailed and well referenced, this book offers a new way of looking at the activities of the United States Armed Services.

Book Review - Click

Click: Ten Truths for Building Extraordinary Relationships
George C. Fraser
HD 69 .S8 F736 2008

Fraser describes the process of networking in a series of simple guidelines. He stresses that networking takes work, but outlines behaviors and habits that makes meeting new people and developing connections with them more effective. First, he emphasizes the "chemistry"that exists between people. He states how important it is to be your authentic self, but also brings to light assumptions and myths that often get in the way of people's real personalities from being seen. Second, he discusses how people are perceived by others. He admits that some image crafting or slight changes in behavior might make a tremendous difference in a relationship. However, he also advises people to make the first move, trust first, and put the responsibility on themselves, not on others, to develop a new relationship. Third, Fraser acknowledges that timing is involved in all relationships and offers advice on how to open your mind and be flexible to new ideas and new people when they cross your path. This book is an easy, fun read and will be useful to everyone who wants to improve their current relationships or develop new ones.

Book Review - Grief the Mourning After

Grief the Mouring After: Dealing with Adult Bereavement
2nd ed.
Catherine M. Sanders
BF 575 .G7 S26 1999

This book was written to address the practical considerations and clinical approaches to dealing with grief. It is not at textbook and repeatedly asserts that grief is a very individual process. The first two parts of the book focus on theoretical background and phases of grief. The third part discusses many of the aspects that become intertwined in the grieving process. Part four adds to this complex picture by discussing deaths that are especially traumatic, either for their quick and unexpected nature or their long, drawn out suffering. Part five centers around three common classes of grief: death of a child, death of a spouse, and death of a parent. Part six discusses rituals that survivors use to help them deal with loss. Part seven includes recommendations for caregivers, whether familial or professional, to help others live through their grieving process. This book is well researched and written in an academic style, but is peppered with anecdotes which illustrate the book's lessons in the stories of real people.

Book Review - Women in the Line of Fire

Women in the Line of Fire: What you should know about women in the military
Erin Solaro
UB 418 .W65 S66 2006

This book has been written to bring to light inequalities that women who serve in the military continue to face. Solaro argues that women's service experience has earned them the right of complete equality with men in the combat arms and asserts that the Army cannot function without them. She describes the final changes that must be made for equality to be achieved, both in practice and in law. In writing this book, Solaro has undertaken historical research about the percentages of women in the military, their assignments and functions, as well as casualty rates. To best understand the roles of women in todays military, she embedded herself into units serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, observing and interviewing them in order to discover the responsibilities of these women and the attitudes of their unit members toward them. This is a thought provoking book which challenges long held rules and ideas about the role of women, particularly in combat situations.