On the Beach: A Suggested Summer Reading List

Just when you thought it was safe to go near the water, here comes a list of recently published books that CPAs may find useful, even if they've gone fishing for the summer.

CPAs in management positions may want to check out First Among Equals: How to Manage a Group of Professionals, by Patrick J. McKenna and David H. Maister (290 pages, Free Press, $26), which provides practical examples and insight for leading a group of diverse and talented professionals as a team. The authors draw on years of experience in management to help others become better managers.

There is also Execution, by Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan (256 pages, Crown Business, $27.50), which delves into the "importance of being deeply…engaged in an organization" in everything from people to strategy in order to develop a realistic approach to business.

Creating Value Through Corporate Restructuring: Case Studies in Bankruptcies, Buyouts, and Breakups, by Stuart C. Gilson (528 pages, John Wiley & Sons, $79.95), has been praised as a "must read" for executives and professionals involved in corporate restructuring.

You might not want to tote this one around on vacation, but Wiley Practitioner's Guide to GAAS 2002: Covering All SASs, SSAEs, SSARSs and Interpretations, by Dan M. Guy and D. R. Carmichael (960 pages, John Wiley & Sons, $70), can be pretty handy for when you get back to the office. Read all about the latest GAAS standards, with explanations for each pronouncement.

If you do estate planning, Best Intentions: Ensuring Your Estate Plan Delivers Both Wealth and Wisdom, by Colleen Barney and Victoria F. Collins (224 pages, Dearborn Trade, $18.95), could be helpful in providing a fresh look at estate planning beyond typical issues like the inheritance tax.