Book Review - The Power of We

The Power ot We: Succeeding through Partnerships
Jonathan M. Tisch
HD 69 .S8 T57 2004

Tisch argues that if we put aside personal interests to form partnerships, we would achieve greater success and become more efficient. In each of his ten chapters, Tisch provides yet another justification for partnerships. Stressing cooperation over competition, he illustrates how individuals and organizations are able to achieve more, reduce conflict, expand capabilities and markets, and better align your interests with your community by working together rather than alone. Each chapter is highlighted by a successful individual or organization and the partnership story that helped them get there. This book is not only inspirational, but it is a new model for individuals and businesses to consider following.

Book Review - The First-time Manager's Guide to Teambuilding

The First-time Manager's Guide to Teambuilding
Gary S. Topchik
HD 30.4 .T67 2007

Topchik's short book is an overview that describes the processes and problems involved in building a managing a team. His intended audience is individuals new to the leader or manager role, but it also serves as a reminder of the key concerns for project managers or senior leaders as well. The book is divided into five sections. First, Topchik defines teams and teamwork, presenting several models of team composition and function. Next, he differentiates the role of the team leader or manager from those of other team member, describing skills and responsibilities that the leader has. Third, he presents requirements for developing a team spirit. Fourth, he overviews some of the challenges in managing the team. Finally, he suggests a number of team-building activities that might help members get to know each other and become interdependent. This is a quick read that hits the highlights of team leadership. Topchik could have put more emphasis on the uniqueness of each team throughout his writing, however. He mentions the difficulties in getting individuals to work together, but does not offer concrete steps or suggestions to overcoming these.

Book Review - Hog Pilots, Blue Water Grunts

Hog Pilots, Blue Water Grunts: The American Military in the Air, at Sea, and on the Ground
Robert D. Kaplan
UA 23 .K345 2007

Kaplan, a journalist for Atlantic Monthly, writes this book as a continuing examination of the United States military and its involvement in the War on Terror. In this follow-up to Imperial Grunts, Kaplan shows the diversity of military efforts taking place around the world between 2004 and 2006. He illustrates the challenges of air, sea, and ground warfare environments that soldiers, sailors and airmen endure. At the same time, readers get to know the personal commitments, hardships, friendships, and losses of the individuals who serve in the American military. This book shows that while media attention has focused on the Middle East, in reality, the War on Terror has the American Military engaged around the globe. It also shows the humanity and motivation of those thousands of individuals who are so often homogenized when military history is recounted. This is an engaging read for anyone interested in contemporary military activities.