Books of Note 2007

“Developing clean technologies is no longer a social issue championed by environmentalists—it’s a moneymaking enterprise.” Authors Ron Pernick, Co-founder of Clean Edge—a research and publishing firm that helps companies, investors and governments understand and profit from clean technologies—and Clint Wilder examine this next wave of technological innovation.

Firms of Endearment: How World-Class Companies Profit from Passion and Purpose
By Raj Sisodia, Jag Sheth, David B. Wolfe; Wharton School of Publishing: Hardcover $27.95

With 30 case studies including those of Commerce Bank, Costco, Ikea, Timberland, Toyota, Whole Foods and more, these authors and leading marketing scholars explain why “today’s most human companies are blowing away the S&P 500 averages.” Case studies are accompanied by practical guidance on transforming your company to a Firm of Endearment.

“There is a philosophy of doing business that goes beyond the transfer of goods and services. It calls for a transfer of values known as small decencies. This book shows the way.” Steve Harrison, Chairman of global career management services company Lee Hecht Harrison, shares his approach—from entry level to CEO—to creating a positive corporate culture.

Revolt in the Boardoom: The New Rules of Power in Corporate America
By Alan Murray; Collins: Hardcover $25.95

Alan Murray, Assistant Managing Editor of The Wall Street Journal and speaker at the CRO Conference 2006, chronicles the diminishing role of the CEO and the growing power of boards of directors, regulators, investors and NGOs. “The dramatic power struggles that are now playing out in the CEO suite and the boardroom will, in the end, determine the kinds of lives and what kind of world our children and children’s children inherit.”

Rebuilding Brand America
By Dick Martin; American Management Association: Hardcover $27.95

A well-written book that examines a serious issue of concern for not only political, but also business leaders. Includes interviews with executives from McDonald’s, Wal-Mart and FedEx and analysis of thought leaders John Zogby and Fareed Zakaria.

The Sustainability Handbook
By William R. Blackburn; Environmental Law Institute: Cloth $53.95

A thorough and practical guide to help corporations (large and small) and governmental and non-governmental organizations implement executable sustainability plans and programs.

True North: Discover Your Authentic Leadership
By Bill George with Peter Sims; Josey-Bass: Cloth $27.95

The former CEO of Medtronic Inc. interviews 125 business leaders for lessons on leadership and life.

Business Solutions for the Global Poor
By V. Kasturi Rangan, John A. Quelch, Gustavo Herrero, and Brooke Barton; John Wiley & Sons: Cloth $55.00

An important collection of case studies on creating business value by tapping into the vast market of the world’s poorest.

The Failure of Corporate Law: Fundamental Flaws and Progressive Possibilities
By Kent Greenfield; The University of Chicago Press: Cloth $45.00

A provocative and lawyerly case for changes in corporate law and governance.