Review by Library Journal Review
Thaler, an attorney who also runs an independent record company, gives readers the practical tips, tools, and advice needed to start and manage a small business. The topics covered include business formation, partnership agreements, buying a franchise, business plans, marketing and advertising, leases, insurance, and personnel. In addition, the chapter "Miscellaneous Issues" considers such things as UPC codes, patents and trademarks, power of attorney, and rights and agreements. A chapter on nonprofits is particularly useful, as most small business books do not cover them. Throughout, Thaler uses brief real-life stories, often as examples of how not to do things. Each chapter begins with a pithy, pertinent quote and ends with a short list of published resources; unfortunately, these lists are not absolutely current and do not include Internet resources. Written in a breezy, easy-to-read manner, this book would be valuable for entrepreneurs thinking of entering the business world. Recommended for public libraries.-Susan C. Awe, Univ. of New Mexico Lib., Albuquerque (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Attorney Thaler has produced a Bible of practical basics for self-employment. After giving an overview of basic economics principles, he delves into insurance, leases and landlords. When it comes to business equipment, he urges readers to shop comparatively. Computers, he says, are a necessary part of doing business today, and entrepreneurs should spend time familiarizing themselves with the programs and software they'll need. He offers a very brief introduction to the world of taxes, and he rehearses the benefits of Roth IRAs, Simple 401(K)s, and Traditional IRAs--ultimately concluding that most of us would do well to hire a CPA. (Unsurprisingly, he also encourages "Proper retention of an attorney at the start of your business.") Divorce can destroy small businesses, so Thaler urges married couples in business to do their darndest to stay together--but if divorce becomes unavoidable, "proceed carefully"--it is all but guaranteed that your business will take a hit. This friendly introduction is just that--an introduction. It doesn't contain answers to every question the new business owner may encounter, but it's a great start. Copyright ©Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
