DON'T GIVE UP!, 31 Aug 2008
After hunting for a good no-nonsense 'how to' guide to screenprinting I pre-ordered the Print Liberation book, having judged it entirely on the basis of its cover (fair for a book about graphics, no?).

I wasn't disappointed - it's a brilliant and inspirational book, perfect for the guy who's never even seen (let alone burned) a screen. It's heavy on the pictures, light and conversational on the text, covers history of screenprinting and how to turn your hobby into art or business. Although it covers the necessary practicalities regarding screenprinting in a refreshingly craft-free (yet still very professional) way, it's really its passionate, positive and generous tone that has made me an evangelist. The guys who wrote this believe passionately in the sharing and spreading of skills, to the extent that they include transparencies of their graphic work in the back of the book for you to use!

If i had to make a criticism it would be that it's a bit too light on the copy - but that doesn't really matter. This really is a 'primer' : basic no nonsense facts about how to screenprint + healthy dose of inspiration + lots of pretty pictures and graphics. Its goal is to get you printing, and in that it succeeds. Don't give up!

DON'T GIVE UP!, 31 Aug 2008
After hunting for a good no-nonsense 'how to' guide to screenprinting I pre-ordered the Print Liberation book, having judged it entirely on the basis of its cover (fair for a book about graphics, no?).

I wasn't disappointed - it's a brilliant and inspirational book, perfect for the guy who's never even seen (let alone burned) a screen. It's heavy on the pictures, light and conversational on the text, covers history of screenprinting and how to turn your hobby into art or business. Although it covers the necessary practicalities regarding screenprinting in a refreshingly craft-free (yet still very professional) way, it's really its passionate, positive and generous tone that has made me an evangelist. The guys who wrote this believe passionately in the sharing and spreading of skills, to the extent that they include transparencies of their graphic work in the back of the book for you to use!

If i had to make a criticism it would be that it's a bit too light on the copy - but that doesn't really matter. This really is a 'primer' : basic no nonsense facts about how to screenprint + healthy dose of inspiration + lots of pretty pictures and graphics. Its goal is to get you printing, and in that it succeeds. Don't give up!

A pragmatic solution, 12 Jun 2003
I enjoyed 'Problem Solved' for several reasons. It is incredibly well written and is very engaging. The editorial offers a marked change from most books in this category that, I find, tend to be written in a style that is so impenetrable and up itself, it subsequently elevates the role of the designer/art director to that of a Messiah - a panacea for all problems.

Secondly, I applaud Johnson's decision to show design with advertising to illustrate the book's main themes. And the design work chosen isn't the de rigour award-winning stuff that turns up in most graphics books, but good
creative work that also had success from a marketing point of view.

The previous reviewer mentioned that the book failed to be robust in it's analysis of the creative work featured in the book. I personally didn't feel this, as surely the aim of the text is to examine a particular genre of problem solving and showcase the work that fits this type in order for the
reader to recognise how one particular problem i.e. 'the astonish me' problem' was solved by a clutch of creative practices that specialise in different disciplines and ways of working.

I have found that is is rare that designer/art director can articulate a deep insight into the strategy of the work, I usually go to the planner or marketing director for that point of view.

I can see how the design elite would be offended by this book as it does have a strong marketing bias and, although many designers/art director may say that they are 'problem solvers', at heart many prefer to experiment with their creative skills. Hence the number of designers who prefer to design books but complain about the low fees and the number of agency art directors who call their commercials films.

Ultimately the book is a good read and is a pragmatic solution to presenting the point where design, advertising and marketing meet. A point which still makes many creative people uncomfortable. It looks good too.

All my Problems Solved, 09 Jun 2003
I've been looking for a simple introduction to design and advertising and this has proved invaluable. There are so many books available, but none of them seem to take a general view of the subject (and I'm on a limited budget).
I really enjoyed Johnson's witty writing style, and the examples of work he used were always fantastic.
For once I actually read a design book from front to back, rather than just skipping through and putting it straight on the bookshelf. Splitting solutions into general 'problem' areas was really useful and also really entertaining.
For anyone looking for a general introduction to the subject, this has to be the best book you can buy. I would imagine that people already working would also really enjoy some of Johnson's entertaining (and sometimes outrageous) observations too.
Very highly reccomended, in fact the best book I've bought since the Art of Looking Sideways. Five stars from me.

A watery solution, 05 Jun 2003
This book is not particularly robust, and the title is somewhat misleading. It suggests that complicated ideas will be talked through, rationalised and then developed into a creative solution; but that doesn't happen. Instead, rafts of creative work are shown without the "thinking" really being developed. I would agree with the first reviewer that this book makes advertising appear simple - that's because the intricacies of each situation are not properly expounded before the executions displayed.

The notion seems to be one all too often found in communications literature, that if the work itself is good enough to do the job (which it must be in order to be deemed successful) the thinking behind the work does not need to be articulated.

For anybody trying to get an insight into how creative solutions come to be, more exposition of the problems which require these solutions is paramount.

Simplify!, 07 Apr 2003
Do you wish to find out how and where advertisers begin the ads you know?
Well, your problem solved!
This book shows you the answer(s).
Nice ads on a nice graphics. Simple questions with simple answers (yes, they knew the answer before posing the question!).
The idea of introducing THE question followed by THE answer is so straight forward that makes us think "what a simple job advertising must be".
QUESTION #1: Where does the book go wrong?
ANSWER: It makes us believe "ad things" are simple.
QUESTION #2: Where does the book go right?
ANSWER: Shows you how good can you be and how far can you go if you keep it simple.

DON'T GIVE UP!, 31 Aug 2008
After hunting for a good no-nonsense 'how to' guide to screenprinting I pre-ordered the Print Liberation book, having judged it entirely on the basis of its cover (fair for a book about graphics, no?).

I wasn't disappointed - it's a brilliant and inspirational book, perfect for the guy who's never even seen (let alone burned) a screen. It's heavy on the pictures, light and conversational on the text, covers history of screenprinting and how to turn your hobby into art or business. Although it covers the necessary practicalities regarding screenprinting in a refreshingly craft-free (yet still very professional) way, it's really its passionate, positive and generous tone that has made me an evangelist. The guys who wrote this believe passionately in the sharing and spreading of skills, to the extent that they include transparencies of their graphic work in the back of the book for you to use!

If i had to make a criticism it would be that it's a bit too light on the copy - but that doesn't really matter. This really is a 'primer' : basic no nonsense facts about how to screenprint + healthy dose of inspiration + lots of pretty pictures and graphics. Its goal is to get you printing, and in that it succeeds. Don't give up!

A pragmatic solution, 12 Jun 2003
I enjoyed 'Problem Solved' for several reasons. It is incredibly well written and is very engaging. The editorial offers a marked change from most books in this category that, I find, tend to be written in a style that is so impenetrable and up itself, it subsequently elevates the role of the designer/art director to that of a Messiah - a panacea for all problems.

Secondly, I applaud Johnson's decision to show design with advertising to illustrate the book's main themes. And the design work chosen isn't the de rigour award-winning stuff that turns up in most graphics books, but good
creative work that also had success from a marketing point of view.

The previous reviewer mentioned that the book failed to be robust in it's analysis of the creative work featured in the book. I personally didn't feel this, as surely the aim of the text is to examine a particular genre of problem solving and showcase the work that fits this type in order for the
reader to recognise how one particular problem i.e. 'the astonish me' problem' was solved by a clutch of creative practices that specialise in different disciplines and ways of working.

I have found that is is rare that designer/art director can articulate a deep insight into the strategy of the work, I usually go to the planner or marketing director for that point of view.

I can see how the design elite would be offended by this book as it does have a strong marketing bias and, although many designers/art director may say that they are 'problem solvers', at heart many prefer to experiment with their creative skills. Hence the number of designers who prefer to design books but complain about the low fees and the number of agency art directors who call their commercials films.

Ultimately the book is a good read and is a pragmatic solution to presenting the point where design, advertising and marketing meet. A point which still makes many creative people uncomfortable. It looks good too.

All my Problems Solved, 09 Jun 2003
I've been looking for a simple introduction to design and advertising and this has proved invaluable. There are so many books available, but none of them seem to take a general view of the subject (and I'm on a limited budget).
I really enjoyed Johnson's witty writing style, and the examples of work he used were always fantastic.
For once I actually read a design book from front to back, rather than just skipping through and putting it straight on the bookshelf. Splitting solutions into general 'problem' areas was really useful and also really entertaining.
For anyone looking for a general introduction to the subject, this has to be the best book you can buy. I would imagine that people already working would also really enjoy some of Johnson's entertaining (and sometimes outrageous) observations too.
Very highly reccomended, in fact the best book I've bought since the Art of Looking Sideways. Five stars from me.

A watery solution, 05 Jun 2003
This book is not particularly robust, and the title is somewhat misleading. It suggests that complicated ideas will be talked through, rationalised and then developed into a creative solution; but that doesn't happen. Instead, rafts of creative work are shown without the "thinking" really being developed. I would agree with the first reviewer that this book makes advertising appear simple - that's because the intricacies of each situation are not properly expounded before the executions displayed.

The notion seems to be one all too often found in communications literature, that if the work itself is good enough to do the job (which it must be in order to be deemed successful) the thinking behind the work does not need to be articulated.

For anybody trying to get an insight into how creative solutions come to be, more exposition of the problems which require these solutions is paramount.

Simplify!, 07 Apr 2003
Do you wish to find out how and where advertisers begin the ads you know?
Well, your problem solved!
This book shows you the answer(s).
Nice ads on a nice graphics. Simple questions with simple answers (yes, they knew the answer before posing the question!).
The idea of introducing THE question followed by THE answer is so straight forward that makes us think "what a simple job advertising must be".
QUESTION #1: Where does the book go wrong?
ANSWER: It makes us believe "ad things" are simple.
QUESTION #2: Where does the book go right?
ANSWER: Shows you how good can you be and how far can you go if you keep it simple.

Good grounding in forex, 04 Jan 2005
A good and (nearly) up to date description of the foreign exchange market (Now grown to $1.9 trillion daily turnover from the $1.6 stated in the book). Good coverage of all the aspects, although still aimed at the institutional market. The market has been transformed recently, with electronic trading accounting for a large proportion of trading, so some of the descriptions of dealing are going out of date. Having said that, it is difficult to have a text book that keeps up with the developments, especially in Internet-based trading. Shani points to all this on the last page. As a forex trader mentor, I recommend this book as basic reading for my clients.

Excellent description of FX markets and products, 04 Aug 2004
This book is highly recommanded to understand the basics of the FX markets and the several instruments traded on it. Although not the size of Julian Walmsley's bible (full of details), this book is very efficient and very well written. It will be useful for any person wanting to know about FX techniques, being a student or a professional.

Excellent introduction to foreign exchange, 20 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Excellent introduction to FX, 16 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Very Thorough and Informative, 01 May 2003
This book clearly and thoroughly explains an often complicated subject, in a friendly and clear tone. It covers a multitude of subjects, from the origins of currency trading, to the future of Forex trading after the advent of electronic trading. Highly recommended to anyone (especially good for those new to the subject)wishing to explore the subject of Foreign Exchange!

DON'T GIVE UP!, 31 Aug 2008
After hunting for a good no-nonsense 'how to' guide to screenprinting I pre-ordered the Print Liberation book, having judged it entirely on the basis of its cover (fair for a book about graphics, no?).

I wasn't disappointed - it's a brilliant and inspirational book, perfect for the guy who's never even seen (let alone burned) a screen. It's heavy on the pictures, light and conversational on the text, covers history of screenprinting and how to turn your hobby into art or business. Although it covers the necessary practicalities regarding screenprinting in a refreshingly craft-free (yet still very professional) way, it's really its passionate, positive and generous tone that has made me an evangelist. The guys who wrote this believe passionately in the sharing and spreading of skills, to the extent that they include transparencies of their graphic work in the back of the book for you to use!

If i had to make a criticism it would be that it's a bit too light on the copy - but that doesn't really matter. This really is a 'primer' : basic no nonsense facts about how to screenprint + healthy dose of inspiration + lots of pretty pictures and graphics. Its goal is to get you printing, and in that it succeeds. Don't give up!

A pragmatic solution, 12 Jun 2003
I enjoyed 'Problem Solved' for several reasons. It is incredibly well written and is very engaging. The editorial offers a marked change from most books in this category that, I find, tend to be written in a style that is so impenetrable and up itself, it subsequently elevates the role of the designer/art director to that of a Messiah - a panacea for all problems.

Secondly, I applaud Johnson's decision to show design with advertising to illustrate the book's main themes. And the design work chosen isn't the de rigour award-winning stuff that turns up in most graphics books, but good
creative work that also had success from a marketing point of view.

The previous reviewer mentioned that the book failed to be robust in it's analysis of the creative work featured in the book. I personally didn't feel this, as surely the aim of the text is to examine a particular genre of problem solving and showcase the work that fits this type in order for the
reader to recognise how one particular problem i.e. 'the astonish me' problem' was solved by a clutch of creative practices that specialise in different disciplines and ways of working.

I have found that is is rare that designer/art director can articulate a deep insight into the strategy of the work, I usually go to the planner or marketing director for that point of view.

I can see how the design elite would be offended by this book as it does have a strong marketing bias and, although many designers/art director may say that they are 'problem solvers', at heart many prefer to experiment with their creative skills. Hence the number of designers who prefer to design books but complain about the low fees and the number of agency art directors who call their commercials films.

Ultimately the book is a good read and is a pragmatic solution to presenting the point where design, advertising and marketing meet. A point which still makes many creative people uncomfortable. It looks good too.

All my Problems Solved, 09 Jun 2003
I've been looking for a simple introduction to design and advertising and this has proved invaluable. There are so many books available, but none of them seem to take a general view of the subject (and I'm on a limited budget).
I really enjoyed Johnson's witty writing style, and the examples of work he used were always fantastic.
For once I actually read a design book from front to back, rather than just skipping through and putting it straight on the bookshelf. Splitting solutions into general 'problem' areas was really useful and also really entertaining.
For anyone looking for a general introduction to the subject, this has to be the best book you can buy. I would imagine that people already working would also really enjoy some of Johnson's entertaining (and sometimes outrageous) observations too.
Very highly reccomended, in fact the best book I've bought since the Art of Looking Sideways. Five stars from me.

A watery solution, 05 Jun 2003
This book is not particularly robust, and the title is somewhat misleading. It suggests that complicated ideas will be talked through, rationalised and then developed into a creative solution; but that doesn't happen. Instead, rafts of creative work are shown without the "thinking" really being developed. I would agree with the first reviewer that this book makes advertising appear simple - that's because the intricacies of each situation are not properly expounded before the executions displayed.

The notion seems to be one all too often found in communications literature, that if the work itself is good enough to do the job (which it must be in order to be deemed successful) the thinking behind the work does not need to be articulated.

For anybody trying to get an insight into how creative solutions come to be, more exposition of the problems which require these solutions is paramount.

Simplify!, 07 Apr 2003
Do you wish to find out how and where advertisers begin the ads you know?
Well, your problem solved!
This book shows you the answer(s).
Nice ads on a nice graphics. Simple questions with simple answers (yes, they knew the answer before posing the question!).
The idea of introducing THE question followed by THE answer is so straight forward that makes us think "what a simple job advertising must be".
QUESTION #1: Where does the book go wrong?
ANSWER: It makes us believe "ad things" are simple.
QUESTION #2: Where does the book go right?
ANSWER: Shows you how good can you be and how far can you go if you keep it simple.

Good grounding in forex, 04 Jan 2005
A good and (nearly) up to date description of the foreign exchange market (Now grown to $1.9 trillion daily turnover from the $1.6 stated in the book). Good coverage of all the aspects, although still aimed at the institutional market. The market has been transformed recently, with electronic trading accounting for a large proportion of trading, so some of the descriptions of dealing are going out of date. Having said that, it is difficult to have a text book that keeps up with the developments, especially in Internet-based trading. Shani points to all this on the last page. As a forex trader mentor, I recommend this book as basic reading for my clients.

Excellent description of FX markets and products, 04 Aug 2004
This book is highly recommanded to understand the basics of the FX markets and the several instruments traded on it. Although not the size of Julian Walmsley's bible (full of details), this book is very efficient and very well written. It will be useful for any person wanting to know about FX techniques, being a student or a professional.

Excellent introduction to foreign exchange, 20 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Excellent introduction to FX, 16 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Very Thorough and Informative, 01 May 2003
This book clearly and thoroughly explains an often complicated subject, in a friendly and clear tone. It covers a multitude of subjects, from the origins of currency trading, to the future of Forex trading after the advent of electronic trading. Highly recommended to anyone (especially good for those new to the subject)wishing to explore the subject of Foreign Exchange!

A thorough review of decision making principles, 06 Sep 1999
This well written book presents a comprehensive and unbiased review of decision making concepts. It contrasts methods that select decisions on the basis of the anticipated consequences and rule based methods. It covers the topic of ambiguity quite well. However, I wished it covered more extensively decision making under risk. It is written at a high level and is somewhat difficult to read. However, it provides excellent insights in the decision making process.

DON'T GIVE UP!, 31 Aug 2008
After hunting for a good no-nonsense 'how to' guide to screenprinting I pre-ordered the Print Liberation book, having judged it entirely on the basis of its cover (fair for a book about graphics, no?).

I wasn't disappointed - it's a brilliant and inspirational book, perfect for the guy who's never even seen (let alone burned) a screen. It's heavy on the pictures, light and conversational on the text, covers history of screenprinting and how to turn your hobby into art or business. Although it covers the necessary practicalities regarding screenprinting in a refreshingly craft-free (yet still very professional) way, it's really its passionate, positive and generous tone that has made me an evangelist. The guys who wrote this believe passionately in the sharing and spreading of skills, to the extent that they include transparencies of their graphic work in the back of the book for you to use!

If i had to make a criticism it would be that it's a bit too light on the copy - but that doesn't really matter. This really is a 'primer' : basic no nonsense facts about how to screenprint + healthy dose of inspiration + lots of pretty pictures and graphics. Its goal is to get you printing, and in that it succeeds. Don't give up!

A pragmatic solution, 12 Jun 2003
I enjoyed 'Problem Solved' for several reasons. It is incredibly well written and is very engaging. The editorial offers a marked change from most books in this category that, I find, tend to be written in a style that is so impenetrable and up itself, it subsequently elevates the role of the designer/art director to that of a Messiah - a panacea for all problems.

Secondly, I applaud Johnson's decision to show design with advertising to illustrate the book's main themes. And the design work chosen isn't the de rigour award-winning stuff that turns up in most graphics books, but good
creative work that also had success from a marketing point of view.

The previous reviewer mentioned that the book failed to be robust in it's analysis of the creative work featured in the book. I personally didn't feel this, as surely the aim of the text is to examine a particular genre of problem solving and showcase the work that fits this type in order for the
reader to recognise how one particular problem i.e. 'the astonish me' problem' was solved by a clutch of creative practices that specialise in different disciplines and ways of working.

I have found that is is rare that designer/art director can articulate a deep insight into the strategy of the work, I usually go to the planner or marketing director for that point of view.

I can see how the design elite would be offended by this book as it does have a strong marketing bias and, although many designers/art director may say that they are 'problem solvers', at heart many prefer to experiment with their creative skills. Hence the number of designers who prefer to design books but complain about the low fees and the number of agency art directors who call their commercials films.

Ultimately the book is a good read and is a pragmatic solution to presenting the point where design, advertising and marketing meet. A point which still makes many creative people uncomfortable. It looks good too.

All my Problems Solved, 09 Jun 2003
I've been looking for a simple introduction to design and advertising and this has proved invaluable. There are so many books available, but none of them seem to take a general view of the subject (and I'm on a limited budget).
I really enjoyed Johnson's witty writing style, and the examples of work he used were always fantastic.
For once I actually read a design book from front to back, rather than just skipping through and putting it straight on the bookshelf. Splitting solutions into general 'problem' areas was really useful and also really entertaining.
For anyone looking for a general introduction to the subject, this has to be the best book you can buy. I would imagine that people already working would also really enjoy some of Johnson's entertaining (and sometimes outrageous) observations too.
Very highly reccomended, in fact the best book I've bought since the Art of Looking Sideways. Five stars from me.

A watery solution, 05 Jun 2003
This book is not particularly robust, and the title is somewhat misleading. It suggests that complicated ideas will be talked through, rationalised and then developed into a creative solution; but that doesn't happen. Instead, rafts of creative work are shown without the "thinking" really being developed. I would agree with the first reviewer that this book makes advertising appear simple - that's because the intricacies of each situation are not properly expounded before the executions displayed.

The notion seems to be one all too often found in communications literature, that if the work itself is good enough to do the job (which it must be in order to be deemed successful) the thinking behind the work does not need to be articulated.

For anybody trying to get an insight into how creative solutions come to be, more exposition of the problems which require these solutions is paramount.

Simplify!, 07 Apr 2003
Do you wish to find out how and where advertisers begin the ads you know?
Well, your problem solved!
This book shows you the answer(s).
Nice ads on a nice graphics. Simple questions with simple answers (yes, they knew the answer before posing the question!).
The idea of introducing THE question followed by THE answer is so straight forward that makes us think "what a simple job advertising must be".
QUESTION #1: Where does the book go wrong?
ANSWER: It makes us believe "ad things" are simple.
QUESTION #2: Where does the book go right?
ANSWER: Shows you how good can you be and how far can you go if you keep it simple.

Good grounding in forex, 04 Jan 2005
A good and (nearly) up to date description of the foreign exchange market (Now grown to $1.9 trillion daily turnover from the $1.6 stated in the book). Good coverage of all the aspects, although still aimed at the institutional market. The market has been transformed recently, with electronic trading accounting for a large proportion of trading, so some of the descriptions of dealing are going out of date. Having said that, it is difficult to have a text book that keeps up with the developments, especially in Internet-based trading. Shani points to all this on the last page. As a forex trader mentor, I recommend this book as basic reading for my clients.

Excellent description of FX markets and products, 04 Aug 2004
This book is highly recommanded to understand the basics of the FX markets and the several instruments traded on it. Although not the size of Julian Walmsley's bible (full of details), this book is very efficient and very well written. It will be useful for any person wanting to know about FX techniques, being a student or a professional.

Excellent introduction to foreign exchange, 20 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Excellent introduction to FX, 16 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Very Thorough and Informative, 01 May 2003
This book clearly and thoroughly explains an often complicated subject, in a friendly and clear tone. It covers a multitude of subjects, from the origins of currency trading, to the future of Forex trading after the advent of electronic trading. Highly recommended to anyone (especially good for those new to the subject)wishing to explore the subject of Foreign Exchange!

A thorough review of decision making principles, 06 Sep 1999
This well written book presents a comprehensive and unbiased review of decision making concepts. It contrasts methods that select decisions on the basis of the anticipated consequences and rule based methods. It covers the topic of ambiguity quite well. However, I wished it covered more extensively decision making under risk. It is written at a high level and is somewhat difficult to read. However, it provides excellent insights in the decision making process.

Really useful book, 27 Mar 2004
Being new to the game of currency options, i found this primer a real source of information and a great aid to my understanding of the subject. I really do recommend this book to the novice. Having said that, i am also sure this book would be of interest to the more experienced as well, as the subjects covered and style of writing covers both the expereienced and inexperienced.

DON'T GIVE UP!, 31 Aug 2008
After hunting for a good no-nonsense 'how to' guide to screenprinting I pre-ordered the Print Liberation book, having judged it entirely on the basis of its cover (fair for a book about graphics, no?).

I wasn't disappointed - it's a brilliant and inspirational book, perfect for the guy who's never even seen (let alone burned) a screen. It's heavy on the pictures, light and conversational on the text, covers history of screenprinting and how to turn your hobby into art or business. Although it covers the necessary practicalities regarding screenprinting in a refreshingly craft-free (yet still very professional) way, it's really its passionate, positive and generous tone that has made me an evangelist. The guys who wrote this believe passionately in the sharing and spreading of skills, to the extent that they include transparencies of their graphic work in the back of the book for you to use!

If i had to make a criticism it would be that it's a bit too light on the copy - but that doesn't really matter. This really is a 'primer' : basic no nonsense facts about how to screenprint + healthy dose of inspiration + lots of pretty pictures and graphics. Its goal is to get you printing, and in that it succeeds. Don't give up!

A pragmatic solution, 12 Jun 2003
I enjoyed 'Problem Solved' for several reasons. It is incredibly well written and is very engaging. The editorial offers a marked change from most books in this category that, I find, tend to be written in a style that is so impenetrable and up itself, it subsequently elevates the role of the designer/art director to that of a Messiah - a panacea for all problems.

Secondly, I applaud Johnson's decision to show design with advertising to illustrate the book's main themes. And the design work chosen isn't the de rigour award-winning stuff that turns up in most graphics books, but good
creative work that also had success from a marketing point of view.

The previous reviewer mentioned that the book failed to be robust in it's analysis of the creative work featured in the book. I personally didn't feel this, as surely the aim of the text is to examine a particular genre of problem solving and showcase the work that fits this type in order for the
reader to recognise how one particular problem i.e. 'the astonish me' problem' was solved by a clutch of creative practices that specialise in different disciplines and ways of working.

I have found that is is rare that designer/art director can articulate a deep insight into the strategy of the work, I usually go to the planner or marketing director for that point of view.

I can see how the design elite would be offended by this book as it does have a strong marketing bias and, although many designers/art director may say that they are 'problem solvers', at heart many prefer to experiment with their creative skills. Hence the number of designers who prefer to design books but complain about the low fees and the number of agency art directors who call their commercials films.

Ultimately the book is a good read and is a pragmatic solution to presenting the point where design, advertising and marketing meet. A point which still makes many creative people uncomfortable. It looks good too.

All my Problems Solved, 09 Jun 2003
I've been looking for a simple introduction to design and advertising and this has proved invaluable. There are so many books available, but none of them seem to take a general view of the subject (and I'm on a limited budget).
I really enjoyed Johnson's witty writing style, and the examples of work he used were always fantastic.
For once I actually read a design book from front to back, rather than just skipping through and putting it straight on the bookshelf. Splitting solutions into general 'problem' areas was really useful and also really entertaining.
For anyone looking for a general introduction to the subject, this has to be the best book you can buy. I would imagine that people already working would also really enjoy some of Johnson's entertaining (and sometimes outrageous) observations too.
Very highly reccomended, in fact the best book I've bought since the Art of Looking Sideways. Five stars from me.

A watery solution, 05 Jun 2003
This book is not particularly robust, and the title is somewhat misleading. It suggests that complicated ideas will be talked through, rationalised and then developed into a creative solution; but that doesn't happen. Instead, rafts of creative work are shown without the "thinking" really being developed. I would agree with the first reviewer that this book makes advertising appear simple - that's because the intricacies of each situation are not properly expounded before the executions displayed.

The notion seems to be one all too often found in communications literature, that if the work itself is good enough to do the job (which it must be in order to be deemed successful) the thinking behind the work does not need to be articulated.

For anybody trying to get an insight into how creative solutions come to be, more exposition of the problems which require these solutions is paramount.

Simplify!, 07 Apr 2003
Do you wish to find out how and where advertisers begin the ads you know?
Well, your problem solved!
This book shows you the answer(s).
Nice ads on a nice graphics. Simple questions with simple answers (yes, they knew the answer before posing the question!).
The idea of introducing THE question followed by THE answer is so straight forward that makes us think "what a simple job advertising must be".
QUESTION #1: Where does the book go wrong?
ANSWER: It makes us believe "ad things" are simple.
QUESTION #2: Where does the book go right?
ANSWER: Shows you how good can you be and how far can you go if you keep it simple.

Good grounding in forex, 04 Jan 2005
A good and (nearly) up to date description of the foreign exchange market (Now grown to $1.9 trillion daily turnover from the $1.6 stated in the book). Good coverage of all the aspects, although still aimed at the institutional market. The market has been transformed recently, with electronic trading accounting for a large proportion of trading, so some of the descriptions of dealing are going out of date. Having said that, it is difficult to have a text book that keeps up with the developments, especially in Internet-based trading. Shani points to all this on the last page. As a forex trader mentor, I recommend this book as basic reading for my clients.

Excellent description of FX markets and products, 04 Aug 2004
This book is highly recommanded to understand the basics of the FX markets and the several instruments traded on it. Although not the size of Julian Walmsley's bible (full of details), this book is very efficient and very well written. It will be useful for any person wanting to know about FX techniques, being a student or a professional.

Excellent introduction to foreign exchange, 20 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Excellent introduction to FX, 16 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Very Thorough and Informative, 01 May 2003
This book clearly and thoroughly explains an often complicated subject, in a friendly and clear tone. It covers a multitude of subjects, from the origins of currency trading, to the future of Forex trading after the advent of electronic trading. Highly recommended to anyone (especially good for those new to the subject)wishing to explore the subject of Foreign Exchange!

A thorough review of decision making principles, 06 Sep 1999
This well written book presents a comprehensive and unbiased review of decision making concepts. It contrasts methods that select decisions on the basis of the anticipated consequences and rule based methods. It covers the topic of ambiguity quite well. However, I wished it covered more extensively decision making under risk. It is written at a high level and is somewhat difficult to read. However, it provides excellent insights in the decision making process.

Really useful book, 27 Mar 2004
Being new to the game of currency options, i found this primer a real source of information and a great aid to my understanding of the subject. I really do recommend this book to the novice. Having said that, i am also sure this book would be of interest to the more experienced as well, as the subjects covered and style of writing covers both the expereienced and inexperienced.

Excellent for educational purpose and junior experts, 05 Mar 2002
I was very positively surprised to see someone writing an introduction book on embedded software.
In fact, It's sometimes very hard to summarize such a wide discipline within a little bit more than 400 pages. This book has the advantage to stay general wich can be very interesting for teachers or people that don't have any knowledge of this field. It start with simple software architectures to the most intricate : the real time operating system (RTOS). The second half of this book is dedicated to RTOS with an introduction to an existing RTOS (µC-OS). It's a high pleasure to be introduced in the field with such a step by step book. Congratulations M. Simon.

Geared to the software developer newly promoted to manage other developers, Herding Cats: A Primer for Programmers Who Lead Programmers distils the author's several decades of project management experience into a worthwhile tour of some best practices for those making the transition.

Written in a lively style that doesn't pull any punches when it comes to the hard realities of leading technical teams, this book offers plenty of practical advice and will be worth it for any IT manager who wants a veteran's perspective on the battle to create great software on-budget and on-time.

While many titles on software engineering and management lean toward the theoretical, this book's candid and practical focus help distinguish it from the crowd. It also helps that he's a good writer, and mixes quotes from a variety of sources (including Jack Welch and Andy Grove). This is one of the few titles to concentrate on the all too common problem of good programmers promoted to project leads, where management and people skills will often determine success, rather than raw programming chops.

Early sections outline the basic personality types that the author has encountered in software. Ranging from the gifted "architects" and "constructionists" to "magicians" and "slobs" and "salad chefs", this taxonomy is as good as any, and any reader will recognise many types encountered in any career in IT. Basic tips include mixing team personality types effectively and getting started with managing programmers from philosophical ideas about what constitutes leadership, to practical suggestions for hiring and firing, running meetings, and working as manager to improve your company's bottom line.

Noteworthy sections here on design philosophy outline the importance of thinking about architecture and re-use as you build software. Techniques like adhering to programming standards throughout your shop and designing objects with good cohesion and loose coupling are advocated here. A section on anti-patterns in management outlines the management styles that lead to trouble. (Tips for overcoming micro-management, do-it-all/know-it-all managers, and improving communication will help you defeat these tendencies, both in yourself and others).

Later sections survey the basics of software engineering and software process including the Microsoft Solution Frameworks and Extreme Programming (XP) as ideas to check out. Final sections look at the author's own software for managing projects (the executable and code are downloadable). An annotated bibliography of books can provide a start for any new manager's shelf. In all, this title can be a source of comfort and advice for those taking on new leadership positions on technical teams with its wide-ranging perspective on what it takes to lead other programmers successfully. --Richard Dragan

Topics covered: Management techniques for programmers promoted to leadership positions, assessing your level of technical "cool", positive and negative programmer personalities (including architects, constructionists, speed demons, magicians, minimalists, analogists); trouble types (including slobs, amateurs, salad chefs), tips for new managers (including adapting to changes), dealing with project feature creep, dealing with ineffective programmers, tips for hiring and firing, promotions, organising for success (using paper and e-mail effectively), the author's custom Administrative Director program (for organising project tasks), corporate goals, product and project management, managing change throughout the project lifecycle, tips for running staff, design and other meetings, effective technical leadership (designing with architecture and re-use in mind), design hints (programming standards, strong object cohesion and low coupling between objects), reviewing code, anti-patterns in management (including micromanagers, unfocused management, and misapplied genius), hints for overcoming bad management styles, leadership principles (fostering effective communication, delegating, and participating), techniques for mentoring and rewarding employees, fostering employee loyalty, leadership for different generations, case studies of several tech leaders (Andy Grove and Bill Gates), how to work with your boss (communicating deadlines and limits, overcoming inertia), techniques for managing a distributed workforce, multicultural factors in management, intro. to software engineering and process (overview of the Microsoft Solutions Framework, Extreme Programming, XP, and Agile Development), craftsmanship in software, dealing with technology change and economic downturn, appendices for the author's Administrative Director software (including a code review), case studies of effective and ineffective management techniques from the field.

DON'T GIVE UP!, 31 Aug 2008
After hunting for a good no-nonsense 'how to' guide to screenprinting I pre-ordered the Print Liberation book, having judged it entirely on the basis of its cover (fair for a book about graphics, no?).

I wasn't disappointed - it's a brilliant and inspirational book, perfect for the guy who's never even seen (let alone burned) a screen. It's heavy on the pictures, light and conversational on the text, covers history of screenprinting and how to turn your hobby into art or business. Although it covers the necessary practicalities regarding screenprinting in a refreshingly craft-free (yet still very professional) way, it's really its passionate, positive and generous tone that has made me an evangelist. The guys who wrote this believe passionately in the sharing and spreading of skills, to the extent that they include transparencies of their graphic work in the back of the book for you to use!

If i had to make a criticism it would be that it's a bit too light on the copy - but that doesn't really matter. This really is a 'primer' : basic no nonsense facts about how to screenprint + healthy dose of inspiration + lots of pretty pictures and graphics. Its goal is to get you printing, and in that it succeeds. Don't give up!

A pragmatic solution, 12 Jun 2003
I enjoyed 'Problem Solved' for several reasons. It is incredibly well written and is very engaging. The editorial offers a marked change from most books in this category that, I find, tend to be written in a style that is so impenetrable and up itself, it subsequently elevates the role of the designer/art director to that of a Messiah - a panacea for all problems.

Secondly, I applaud Johnson's decision to show design with advertising to illustrate the book's main themes. And the design work chosen isn't the de rigour award-winning stuff that turns up in most graphics books, but good
creative work that also had success from a marketing point of view.

The previous reviewer mentioned that the book failed to be robust in it's analysis of the creative work featured in the book. I personally didn't feel this, as surely the aim of the text is to examine a particular genre of problem solving and showcase the work that fits this type in order for the
reader to recognise how one particular problem i.e. 'the astonish me' problem' was solved by a clutch of creative practices that specialise in different disciplines and ways of working.

I have found that is is rare that designer/art director can articulate a deep insight into the strategy of the work, I usually go to the planner or marketing director for that point of view.

I can see how the design elite would be offended by this book as it does have a strong marketing bias and, although many designers/art director may say that they are 'problem solvers', at heart many prefer to experiment with their creative skills. Hence the number of designers who prefer to design books but complain about the low fees and the number of agency art directors who call their commercials films.

Ultimately the book is a good read and is a pragmatic solution to presenting the point where design, advertising and marketing meet. A point which still makes many creative people uncomfortable. It looks good too.

All my Problems Solved, 09 Jun 2003
I've been looking for a simple introduction to design and advertising and this has proved invaluable. There are so many books available, but none of them seem to take a general view of the subject (and I'm on a limited budget).
I really enjoyed Johnson's witty writing style, and the examples of work he used were always fantastic.
For once I actually read a design book from front to back, rather than just skipping through and putting it straight on the bookshelf. Splitting solutions into general 'problem' areas was really useful and also really entertaining.
For anyone looking for a general introduction to the subject, this has to be the best book you can buy. I would imagine that people already working would also really enjoy some of Johnson's entertaining (and sometimes outrageous) observations too.
Very highly reccomended, in fact the best book I've bought since the Art of Looking Sideways. Five stars from me.

A watery solution, 05 Jun 2003
This book is not particularly robust, and the title is somewhat misleading. It suggests that complicated ideas will be talked through, rationalised and then developed into a creative solution; but that doesn't happen. Instead, rafts of creative work are shown without the "thinking" really being developed. I would agree with the first reviewer that this book makes advertising appear simple - that's because the intricacies of each situation are not properly expounded before the executions displayed.

The notion seems to be one all too often found in communications literature, that if the work itself is good enough to do the job (which it must be in order to be deemed successful) the thinking behind the work does not need to be articulated.

For anybody trying to get an insight into how creative solutions come to be, more exposition of the problems which require these solutions is paramount.

Simplify!, 07 Apr 2003
Do you wish to find out how and where advertisers begin the ads you know?
Well, your problem solved!
This book shows you the answer(s).
Nice ads on a nice graphics. Simple questions with simple answers (yes, they knew the answer before posing the question!).
The idea of introducing THE question followed by THE answer is so straight forward that makes us think "what a simple job advertising must be".
QUESTION #1: Where does the book go wrong?
ANSWER: It makes us believe "ad things" are simple.
QUESTION #2: Where does the book go right?
ANSWER: Shows you how good can you be and how far can you go if you keep it simple.

Good grounding in forex, 04 Jan 2005
A good and (nearly) up to date description of the foreign exchange market (Now grown to $1.9 trillion daily turnover from the $1.6 stated in the book). Good coverage of all the aspects, although still aimed at the institutional market. The market has been transformed recently, with electronic trading accounting for a large proportion of trading, so some of the descriptions of dealing are going out of date. Having said that, it is difficult to have a text book that keeps up with the developments, especially in Internet-based trading. Shani points to all this on the last page. As a forex trader mentor, I recommend this book as basic reading for my clients.

Excellent description of FX markets and products, 04 Aug 2004
This book is highly recommanded to understand the basics of the FX markets and the several instruments traded on it. Although not the size of Julian Walmsley's bible (full of details), this book is very efficient and very well written. It will be useful for any person wanting to know about FX techniques, being a student or a professional.

Excellent introduction to foreign exchange, 20 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Excellent introduction to FX, 16 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Very Thorough and Informative, 01 May 2003
This book clearly and thoroughly explains an often complicated subject, in a friendly and clear tone. It covers a multitude of subjects, from the origins of currency trading, to the future of Forex trading after the advent of electronic trading. Highly recommended to anyone (especially good for those new to the subject)wishing to explore the subject of Foreign Exchange!

A thorough review of decision making principles, 06 Sep 1999
This well written book presents a comprehensive and unbiased review of decision making concepts. It contrasts methods that select decisions on the basis of the anticipated consequences and rule based methods. It covers the topic of ambiguity quite well. However, I wished it covered more extensively decision making under risk. It is written at a high level and is somewhat difficult to read. However, it provides excellent insights in the decision making process.

Really useful book, 27 Mar 2004
Being new to the game of currency options, i found this primer a real source of information and a great aid to my understanding of the subject. I really do recommend this book to the novice. Having said that, i am also sure this book would be of interest to the more experienced as well, as the subjects covered and style of writing covers both the expereienced and inexperienced.

Excellent for educational purpose and junior experts, 05 Mar 2002
I was very positively surprised to see someone writing an introduction book on embedded software.
In fact, It's sometimes very hard to summarize such a wide discipline within a little bit more than 400 pages. This book has the advantage to stay general wich can be very interesting for teachers or people that don't have any knowledge of this field. It start with simple software architectures to the most intricate : the real time operating system (RTOS). The second half of this book is dedicated to RTOS with an introduction to an existing RTOS (µC-OS). It's a high pleasure to be introduced in the field with such a step by step book. Congratulations M. Simon.

A Team Lead book written like a cheap VB book, 24 Mar 2007
A flick thru this book showed promise, with its wide coverage. But it's not got any information in it. It flits from subject to subject under random headings, never exploring anything, uncertain if it was a project management or mentoring book, with distracting quotes and pointless diversions. The 'Cat Fights' which are meant to be illustrative incidents are just informative, not really telling you anything: "Someone did something bad, and got sacked." At best it's a list of some much better books you could read, or topics you might be consider (probably you'd come up with a better list just thinking about it for yourself). I would loathe to be managed by this guy, and I've been leading programmers for 8 years.

LIke code - simple, elegant and does the job specified, 18 Oct 2005
Once you have digested this book and use its lessons you will lead.
The sections are well organized and contain what feel like real-life examples.
The style is friendly and humorous. Do not be misled. This is a serious book about a serious topic.
I have read many books on leadership and this is the one I return to for a refresher. The archetypes described as team members are familiar to many environments. The pressures of performance are familiar to many environments. Despite the programming focus, this book will help you if you need to step up to a leadership position in any (technical) environment.

A rare book, 13 Nov 2003
A lot of people get into management through osmosis, they just happen to be given more responsibility, which usually means more people, and all of a sudden you are classes as a manager.

This book is for people like that, people who need to know management, but have no formal training, think they are a manager, or really want to be known as a fulltime manager

Excellent read

DON'T GIVE UP!, 31 Aug 2008
After hunting for a good no-nonsense 'how to' guide to screenprinting I pre-ordered the Print Liberation book, having judged it entirely on the basis of its cover (fair for a book about graphics, no?).

I wasn't disappointed - it's a brilliant and inspirational book, perfect for the guy who's never even seen (let alone burned) a screen. It's heavy on the pictures, light and conversational on the text, covers history of screenprinting and how to turn your hobby into art or business. Although it covers the necessary practicalities regarding screenprinting in a refreshingly craft-free (yet still very professional) way, it's really its passionate, positive and generous tone that has made me an evangelist. The guys who wrote this believe passionately in the sharing and spreading of skills, to the extent that they include transparencies of their graphic work in the back of the book for you to use!

If i had to make a criticism it would be that it's a bit too light on the copy - but that doesn't really matter. This really is a 'primer' : basic no nonsense facts about how to screenprint + healthy dose of inspiration + lots of pretty pictures and graphics. Its goal is to get you printing, and in that it succeeds. Don't give up!

A pragmatic solution, 12 Jun 2003
I enjoyed 'Problem Solved' for several reasons. It is incredibly well written and is very engaging. The editorial offers a marked change from most books in this category that, I find, tend to be written in a style that is so impenetrable and up itself, it subsequently elevates the role of the designer/art director to that of a Messiah - a panacea for all problems.

Secondly, I applaud Johnson's decision to show design with advertising to illustrate the book's main themes. And the design work chosen isn't the de rigour award-winning stuff that turns up in most graphics books, but good
creative work that also had success from a marketing point of view.

The previous reviewer mentioned that the book failed to be robust in it's analysis of the creative work featured in the book. I personally didn't feel this, as surely the aim of the text is to examine a particular genre of problem solving and showcase the work that fits this type in order for the
reader to recognise how one particular problem i.e. 'the astonish me' problem' was solved by a clutch of creative practices that specialise in different disciplines and ways of working.

I have found that is is rare that designer/art director can articulate a deep insight into the strategy of the work, I usually go to the planner or marketing director for that point of view.

I can see how the design elite would be offended by this book as it does have a strong marketing bias and, although many designers/art director may say that they are 'problem solvers', at heart many prefer to experiment with their creative skills. Hence the number of designers who prefer to design books but complain about the low fees and the number of agency art directors who call their commercials films.

Ultimately the book is a good read and is a pragmatic solution to presenting the point where design, advertising and marketing meet. A point which still makes many creative people uncomfortable. It looks good too.

All my Problems Solved, 09 Jun 2003
I've been looking for a simple introduction to design and advertising and this has proved invaluable. There are so many books available, but none of them seem to take a general view of the subject (and I'm on a limited budget).
I really enjoyed Johnson's witty writing style, and the examples of work he used were always fantastic.
For once I actually read a design book from front to back, rather than just skipping through and putting it straight on the bookshelf. Splitting solutions into general 'problem' areas was really useful and also really entertaining.
For anyone looking for a general introduction to the subject, this has to be the best book you can buy. I would imagine that people already working would also really enjoy some of Johnson's entertaining (and sometimes outrageous) observations too.
Very highly reccomended, in fact the best book I've bought since the Art of Looking Sideways. Five stars from me.

A watery solution, 05 Jun 2003
This book is not particularly robust, and the title is somewhat misleading. It suggests that complicated ideas will be talked through, rationalised and then developed into a creative solution; but that doesn't happen. Instead, rafts of creative work are shown without the "thinking" really being developed. I would agree with the first reviewer that this book makes advertising appear simple - that's because the intricacies of each situation are not properly expounded before the executions displayed.

The notion seems to be one all too often found in communications literature, that if the work itself is good enough to do the job (which it must be in order to be deemed successful) the thinking behind the work does not need to be articulated.

For anybody trying to get an insight into how creative solutions come to be, more exposition of the problems which require these solutions is paramount.

Simplify!, 07 Apr 2003
Do you wish to find out how and where advertisers begin the ads you know?
Well, your problem solved!
This book shows you the answer(s).
Nice ads on a nice graphics. Simple questions with simple answers (yes, they knew the answer before posing the question!).
The idea of introducing THE question followed by THE answer is so straight forward that makes us think "what a simple job advertising must be".
QUESTION #1: Where does the book go wrong?
ANSWER: It makes us believe "ad things" are simple.
QUESTION #2: Where does the book go right?
ANSWER: Shows you how good can you be and how far can you go if you keep it simple.

Good grounding in forex, 04 Jan 2005
A good and (nearly) up to date description of the foreign exchange market (Now grown to $1.9 trillion daily turnover from the $1.6 stated in the book). Good coverage of all the aspects, although still aimed at the institutional market. The market has been transformed recently, with electronic trading accounting for a large proportion of trading, so some of the descriptions of dealing are going out of date. Having said that, it is difficult to have a text book that keeps up with the developments, especially in Internet-based trading. Shani points to all this on the last page. As a forex trader mentor, I recommend this book as basic reading for my clients.

Excellent description of FX markets and products, 04 Aug 2004
This book is highly recommanded to understand the basics of the FX markets and the several instruments traded on it. Although not the size of Julian Walmsley's bible (full of details), this book is very efficient and very well written. It will be useful for any person wanting to know about FX techniques, being a student or a professional.

Excellent introduction to foreign exchange, 20 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Excellent introduction to FX, 16 May 2003
Although this book is primarily written for people that are clueless about foreign exchange (FX), it will actually teach the clued-up a thing or two also. The broad range of topics covered is what you'd expect to find in a book that is considerably thicker and more expensive - there's a detailed insight into the marketplace and its participants, the products (spot, forwards, swaps, options), fundamental vs. technical analysis, and more. The author writes in a concise, but extremely readable style and makes extensive use of pictures and diagrams. Furthermore, the book is bang up to date with recent developments in FX, such as the Euro and electronic dealing (that is, at the time I wrote this review). Finally, as an added bonus, this book is not biased towards the US or the US dollar, which I feel is especially appropriate for an FX book. Highly recommended!

Very Thorough and Informative, 01 May 2003
This book clearly and thoroughly explains an often complicated subject, in a friendly and clear tone. It covers a multitude of subjects, from the origins of currency trading, to the future of Forex trading after the advent of electronic trading. Highly recommended to anyone (especially good for those new to the subject)wishing to explore the subject of Foreign Exchange!

A thorough review of decision making principles, 06 Sep 1999
This well written book presents a comprehensive and unbiased review of decision making concepts. It contrasts methods that select decisions on the basis of the anticipated consequences and rule based methods. It covers the topic of ambiguity quite well. However, I wished it covered more extensively decision making under risk. It is written at a high level and is somewhat difficult to read. However, it provides excellent insights in the decision making process.

Really useful book, 27 Mar 2004
Being new to the game of currency options, i found this primer a real source of information and a great aid to my understanding of the subject. I really do recommend this book to the novice. Having said that, i am also sure this book would be of interest to the more experienced as well, as the subjects covered and style of writing covers both the expereienced and inexperienced.

Excellent for educational purpose and junior experts, 05 Mar 2002
I was very positively surprised to see someone writing an introduction book on embedded software.
In fact, It's sometimes very hard to summarize such a wide discipline within a little bit more than 400 pages. This book has the advantage to stay general wich can be very interesting for teachers or people that don't have any knowledge of this field. It start with simple software architectures to the most intricate : the real time operating system (RTOS). The second half of this book is dedicated to RTOS with an introduction to an existing RTOS (µC-OS). It's a high pleasure to be introduced in the field with such a step by step book. Congratulations M. Simon.

A Team Lead book written like a cheap VB book, 24 Mar 2007
A flick thru this book showed promise, with its wide coverage. But it's not got any information in it. It flits from subject to subject under random headings, never exploring anything, uncertain if it was a project management or mentoring book, with distracting quotes and pointless diversions. The 'Cat Fights' which are meant to be illustrative incidents are just informative, not really telling you anything: "Someone did something bad, and got sacked." At best it's a list of some much better books you could read, or topics you might be consider (probably you'd come up with a better list just thinking about it for yourself). I would loathe to be managed by this guy, and I've been leading programmers for 8 years.

LIke code - simple, elegant and does the job specified, 18 Oct 2005
Once you have digested this book and use its lessons you will lead.
The sections are well organized and contain what feel like real-life examples.
The style is friendly and humorous. Do not be misled. This is a serious book about a serious topic.
I have read many books on leadership and this is the one I return to for a refresher. The archetypes described as team membe