Managing

Mintzberg (management studies, McGill Univ.) tracks a typical work day in the lives of 29 managers in different fields to get at the heart of what it truly means to manage. He combines detailed observations and analysis with a comprehensive review of scholarly research as well as draws on his own early academic training as a mechanical engineer. Dismissing "flavor of the year" leadership theories, he concludes that to manage effectively, "there is a need for thoughtfulness—not dogma…not fashionable technique, not 'me too' strategies, not all that leadership' hype, just plain old judgment." Jim Manchester (More Than Money) narrates this valuable material in an engaging and dignified manner; recommended for managers at all levels and of all types of organizations. [The Berrett-Koehler hc was a 2009 LJ Best Business Book; the pb is publishing in March 2011.—Ed.]—M. Gail Preslar, formerly with Eastman Chemical Co. Business Lib., Kingsport, TN