Strategy Pure & Simple II: How Winning Companies Dominate Their Competitors
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • A good overview
  • Thickest Marketing Brochure ever!!!
  • Gets the job done
  • Are you so stupid that you need this book?
  • Another clone
Strategy Pure & Simple II: How Winning Companies Dominate Their Competitors
Michel Robert
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Strategy & CompetitionStrategy & Competition | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
ManagementManagement | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
Systems & PlanningSystems & Planning | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
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  1. The New Strategic Thinking The New Strategic Thinking
  2. Product Innovation Strategy, Pure and Simple: How Winning Companies Outpace Their Competitors Product Innovation Strategy, Pure and Simple: How Winning Companies Outpace Their Competitors
  3. The Power of Strategic Thinking: Lock In Markets, Lock Out Competitors The Power of Strategic Thinking: Lock In Markets, Lock Out Competitors
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ASIN: 0070531331

Book Description

Drawing on his 20 years of pioneering research and work with some 400 top companies, Robert offers today's executives guidance in strategy formulation, implementation, and deployment. Filled with examples drawn from the experiences of today's commercial leaders and interviews with CEOs of companies in a variety of industries, this updated edition of a revolutionary and inspiring best seller offers a sure-fire process of strategic thinking that's been tested and refined in the "war rooms" of America's most successful corporations.

Download Description

In this updated edition of his groundbreaking best-seller, author Michel Robert stresses strategic thinking as today's most powerful management tool and the key to a winning, growth-oriented strategy.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars A good overview.......2006-02-21

You will not be able to defeat your competitors by imitating them, says Michel Robert founder and president of Decision Processes International, Inc. Instead you must find something that you do better than your competitors, something different. Michel Robert has created a step-by-step method you can use to create a winning business strategy based on what you do best, not what your competitors are doing.

1. Identify your company's driving force. The driving force of your company can be either a skill set, a kind of technology or a specific market segment. All decisions, including product development, customer to target and markets to enter are based on your driving force.
2. Write a short business concept. The business concept should address the specific types of products/services, customers, market segments and geographic markets to which your strategy applies, and how the company will add value to these products/customers. The business concept should also have a tone of growth and a direction for the future of the organization.
3. Identify and nurture the skills or areas of excellence needed to implement your strategy. An area of excellence is something your company does better than anything else it does, and better than anything the competitors do. Your areas of excellence must be aligned with the driving force of your company.
4. Identify the critical issues you must address to implement the strategy. Address critical issues for implementation in four areas: Structure, Processes/Systems, Skills/Competencies, and Compensation. Create operational and strategic plans for improvement. Make sure you budget enough resources to make everything happen.

Robert also provides tips on how to anticipate and manage the strategies of your competitors.
· Make sure that your strategy puts you in a position to control or influence your market.
· Identify your competitors as well as their driving forces and strategies.
· Attack your competitor's strategy by diluting, diminishing or neutralizing their areas of excellence.

1 out of 5 stars Thickest Marketing Brochure ever!!!.......2005-09-01

This book is the thickest marketing brochure I have ever read. The case studies was interesting BUT it is all about trying to get you to use the authors (very expensive I'm sure) services to "guide" you through the process. On page 173 there is an example where some CEO told Michel Robert that he is the only person in the room that would stand up to him (to the CEO that is) or something to the likes of it - get over yourself mate.

5 out of 5 stars Gets the job done.......2003-11-06

I first read "Strategy Pure & Simple (I)" back in the early '90s, just before embarking on my first strategic planning job. Since then, I have managed strategic planning and implementation processes at a total of six different operational subsidiaries of two very large financial services groups.
As a financial controller and later a CFO, I have read a great many other books and articles about strategy and planning. Most of those were actually quite interesting, but when it came down to setting up and managing a actual, real-life planning process, I always turned back to Strategy Pure and Simple, because it is just GOOD ENOUGH.
- It includes all important issues that must be addressed during planning;
- more importantly, it reminds you of staying focused on those issues that happen to be key to your company (given its market, own caracteristics, timing, resources, etc.);
- still more importantly, it insists on interaction between the planning team and the management team, and helps with examples of visual aids and cues;
- it really helps a lot in communicating with line and senior managers during the planning process, getting them involved, assuring buy-in, and finally ensuring that the plan, when finished and approved, actually is implemented by those in charge. And, in the end, that is certainly what matters most.
I have now joined a new company in another industry, and have to manage yet another strategic planning process. Well, the best I can say about Strategy Pure & Simple is, I have fished out my 1993-vintage copy, and look forward to using it once again.

1 out of 5 stars Are you so stupid that you need this book?.......2002-07-04

This book is like any other drivel about corporate strategy - figure out what you do well, do more of it and cut the rest. Sounds great when you grossly oversimplify your business. Know what really works? Fire anyone who is stupid, lazy, or unproductive.

PS- If Michel Robert is so smart, why can't he learn English?

1 out of 5 stars Another clone.......2002-01-10

Unfortunately I bought this book after "The Power of Strategic Thinking" that I found full of very interesting ideas, insightful and thought provoking.
If I only knew that it has almost no differences with "Strategy Pure and Simple" I would've never done it. The book is written by copy-and-paste method. There are whole pages and chapters there that were not even worded differently - direct citations from the previous book. The only enhancement - pictures in "The Power of Strategic Thinking" look more silly but are actually the same.
There are probably some fans of Mr.Robert who buy all his books as collectible items but to me it seems like cheating - the same product under new cover. Total disappointment. It also brings doubts about all `true stories' Mr.Robert tells about his successes with 300 companies.
Design in Business: Strategic Innovation Through Design
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Design in Business: Strategic Innovation Through Design
    Margaret Bruce , and J. R. Bessant
    Manufacturer: Financal Times Management
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

    Strategy & CompetitionStrategy & Competition | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
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    Quality ControlQuality Control | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
    Systems & PlanningSystems & Planning | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
    GeneralGeneral | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
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    1. Design Management: Using Design to Build Brand Value and Corporate Innovation Design Management: Using Design to Build Brand Value and Corporate Innovation
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    ASIN: 0273643746
    Corporate Finance, Innovation, and Strategic Competition
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Corporate Finance, Innovation, and Strategic Competition
      Cornelia Neff
      Manufacturer: Springer
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

      Strategy & CompetitionStrategy & Competition | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Popular Economics | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
      Corporate FinanceCorporate Finance | Finance | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
      GeneralGeneral | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
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      ASIN: 3540442944

      Book Description

      This book analyzes how corporate finance decisions influence strategic competition and innovation of firms in the product market. We consider bank loan financing and venture capital financing. Due to assymetric information, firms must sign special contracts with banks or venture capitalists. The financial contracts, in turn, determine the competitive strategies of firms in the product market. Firms compete in prices for market shares. In addition to that, firms invest in R&D in order to induce product or process innovation. We show that better access to financial resources improves a firm's market position and leads to a higher rate of innovation. Cash-rich firms may even decide to prey upon financially restricted rivals in order to prevent new market entry or to induce market exit.
      The Innovation Challenge
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        The Innovation Challenge

        Manufacturer: Wiley
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Hardcover

        GeneralGeneral | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
        ManagementManagement | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
        Systems & PlanningSystems & Planning | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
        Organizational ChangeOrganizational Change | Organizational Behavior | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
        Marketing & SalesMarketing & Sales | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books | Advertising | Consumer Behavior | Customer Service | Marketing | Public Relations | Sales & Selling
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        Robotics & AutomationRobotics & Automation | Computer Technology | Engineering | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
        AutomationAutomation | Mechanical | Engineering | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
        ASIN: 0471974722

        Book Description

        Creativity and innovation are not the same thing. In most organizations there are many good creative ideas that never move into the action phase, and, therefore, do not become innovations. Both creativity and innovation are very relevant to strategic management. It is the ability to innovate that determines much of what an organization is able to do. Innovative capability provides the organization with bricks from which a strategy can be formed and which can eventually evolve into a bastion of strong competitive advantage. Innovation, therefore, remains one of the challenges facing strategic management today. The Innovation Challenge recognizes the fundamental importance of innovation to strategic management. It is built on the central thesis that long-term success is, to a large degree, dependent on the implementation of new products, methods and processes. The Innovation Challenge is the second volume in the Wiley Series in Contemporary Strategic Concerns. Also available in the series is The Implementation Challenge (0-471-96589-8).

        Retain or Retrain: How to Keep the Good Ones from Leaving
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          Retain or Retrain: How to Keep the Good Ones from Leaving
          Howard Edington , and Don Sanders
          Manufacturer: InSync Communications
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Paperback

          GeneralGeneral | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
          Human Resources & Personnel ManagementHuman Resources & Personnel Management | Industries & Professions | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
          TrainingTraining | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
          ASIN: 1929902115

          Book Description

          How do you keep the employees you really want to keep?

          No vague answers here! No avoidance of the real problem facing employers today: retaining good employees. Here is a book with true insight and practical solutions to a major plague that needs to be address. As the authors put it, turnover or retention is the country's new "defective product." But, as they also point out: retention is a problem with solutions.

          Combining the experiences and wisdom of seven experts, Retain or Retrain provides honest, in-your-face, and highly practical solutions to your employee retention problems. Make no mistake about it...most turnover is a management issue. Most turnover is a result of a company-wide, divisional, departmental or individual supervisor treatment of the people who work in the environment created by those in charge. Just as this environment was created...it can be changed. And like any change effort, it takes conscious effort, it takes a realization that change is needed; it needs new strategies and the commitment of management to stay the course. It can be done.

          This book is a blueprint for increasing the retention of the employees you want to keep. It provides targeted strategies for making it happen.

          Here's a brief look at the coverage: * Building a Culture of Strategic Retention * Retention Through Leadership * Good Hiring Decisions * Recruting and Retaining Generation X and Y * Giving Critical Feedback without Causing Defensiveness * The "Soul" Secret to Employee Retention * Bottom-Line Spiritual * From Dictator to Facilitator * The Loyalty Equation * Pride Goeth Before Retention * Cutting Through the C.R.A.P. * Compensation in Employee Retention

          Milk - The Fight for Purity
          Average customer rating: Not rated
            Milk - The Fight for Purity
            James Cross Giblin
            Manufacturer: Thomas Y. Crowell Co.
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Hardcover
            ASIN: B000KDK2PK
            Milk: The Fight for Purity
            Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
            • Fascinating!
            Milk: The Fight for Purity
            James Cross Giblin
            Manufacturer: HarperCollins
            ProductGroup: Book
            Binding: Library Binding

            GeneralGeneral | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | Agricultural Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
            GeneralGeneral | Agricultural Sciences | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
            ASIN: 0690045743

            Customer Reviews:

            5 out of 5 stars Fascinating!.......2004-11-18

            This history of milk and pasturization is very interesting and thorough. It was both informative and accessible. I was surprised to learn how deadly milk used to be before pasturization and the ignorance of people to the concepts of germs and bacteria. If you want to know more about milk and how it came to be part of our daily lives, this is a good book to read.

            Myths and Marvels of Astronomy
            Average customer rating: Not rated
              Myths and Marvels of Astronomy
              Richard A. Proctor
              Manufacturer: Fredonia Books (NL)
              ProductGroup: Book
              Binding: Paperback

              AstronomyAstronomy | Astronomy | Science | Subjects | Books
              GeneralGeneral | Science | Subjects | Books
              GeneralGeneral | History & Philosophy | Science | Subjects | Books
              History of ScienceHistory of Science | History & Philosophy | Science | Subjects | Books
              AstronomyAstronomy | Astronomy | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
              ASIN: 1410102130

              Book Description

              The chief charm of astronomy for many people does not reside in the wonders revealed to us by the science, but in the lore and legends connected with its history, the strange fancies with which in old times it has been associated, the half-forgotten myths to which it has given birth. In our own times also, astronomy has had its myths and fancies, its wild inventions, and startling paradoxes.

              Northwest Mountain Wildflowers (Northwest Wildflower Series)
              Average customer rating: Not rated
                Northwest Mountain Wildflowers (Northwest Wildflower Series)
                Dana Visalli , and Derrick Ditchburn
                Manufacturer: Hancock House Pub Ltd
                ProductGroup: Book
                Binding: Paperback

                FlowersFlowers | Plants | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
                GeneralGeneral | Zoology | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
                ReferenceReference | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books
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                ASIN: 0888395167
                The Wildflower Gardener's Guide: Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, and Western Canada Edition
                Average customer rating: Not rated
                  The Wildflower Gardener's Guide: Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, and Western Canada Edition
                  Henry Warren Art
                  Manufacturer: Garden Way Pub. Co.
                  ProductGroup: Book
                  Binding: Hardcover

                  GeneralGeneral | Flowers | Gardening & Horticulture | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
                  GeneralGeneral | Gardening & Horticulture | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
                  Ornamental PlantsOrnamental Plants | Gardening & Horticulture | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
                  ASIN: 0882665855
                  Wildflowers of the Mountains in the Pacific Northwest (Lewis Clark's Field Guide To...)
                  Average customer rating: Not rated
                    Wildflowers of the Mountains in the Pacific Northwest (Lewis Clark's Field Guide To...)

                    Manufacturer: Harbour Publishing
                    ProductGroup: Book
                    Binding: Paperback

                    FlowersFlowers | Plants | Biological Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books
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                    1. Wild Flowers of Field & Slope in the Pacific Northwest (Lewis Clark's Field Guide To...) Wild Flowers of Field & Slope in the Pacific Northwest (Lewis Clark's Field Guide To...)
                    2. Wildflowers of Forest & Woodland in the Pacific Northwest (Lewis Clark's Field Guide To...) Wildflowers of Forest & Woodland in the Pacific Northwest (Lewis Clark's Field Guide To...)
                    3. Wild Flowers of the Sea Coast: In the Pacific Northwest Wild Flowers of the Sea Coast: In the Pacific Northwest
                    4. Wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest (Timber Press Field Guide) Wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest (Timber Press Field Guide)

                    ASIN: 1550173081

                    Book Description

                    With over 200,000 copies in print, Lewis Clark's field guides are the most popular wild flower guides on the Pacific Northwest ever published. Each book is packed with more than 100 exceptionally large, superb colour photographs, making them essential tools for identifying the common flowering plants of the mountains, forests and woodlands of the region. Each photograph is accompanied by a concise description of the flowering plant's appearance, size and range.

                    With useful overviews of the habitats, as well as glossaries and indexes, this compact guide will captivate you with the beauty of the wild flowers of the Pacific Northwest.

                    Four Months to a Four-hour Marathon
                    Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
                    • May I have those 4 months back, please?
                    • 3 of us ran our 1st Marathon using ONLY this book!
                    • Inspirational
                    • Perfect guide to first time marathoners!
                    • Great runner's guide.
                    Four Months to a Four-hour Marathon
                    Dave Kuehls
                    Manufacturer: Perigee Trade
                    ProductGroup: Book
                    Binding: Paperback

                    GeneralGeneral | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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                    5. The Complete Book Of Running For Women The Complete Book Of Running For Women

                    ASIN: 0399524150

                    Book Description

                    The marathon is the crown jewel of distance running. Entering is one thing. Finishing is something else. And finishing with a respectable time...? For competitive veterans or recreational beginners, 4 Months to a 4-Hour Marathon tells exactly what to eat, what to wear, what to expect, and how to train. When race day arrives, author Dave Kuehls, senior writer at Runner's World and a marathoner himself, will have any competitor in the best shape physically and mentally. 4 Months to a 4-Hour Marathon includes: * Day-by-day training schedule for 4-5 hour marathon * Detailed diet plans * The marathoner's mind-set * Right and wrong things to wear * How to pick the right shoes * Pain vs. performance--how far to go * Common pitfalls to avoid--in training and during the race

                    Customer Reviews:

                    2 out of 5 stars May I have those 4 months back, please?.......2007-10-11

                    I do not recommend this book. It does give some useful information on running--general stuff on what to eat and wear and where to run. If you are new to running you might find it helpful. However, the training program is terrible. I ran my first marathon in a little over 4.5 hours. I took it very easy though and there were a lot of hills, so I was hoping that with the flat Chicago course and some harder training I could run a 4 hour marathon. A lofty goal, but my plan B goal was a sub-4.5 marathon. I bought this book hoping to reach at least one of my goals (unfortunately, the stifling heat ended this year's Chicago marathon before I finished & I had to walk a couple miles so I did not reach either goal, but that's not Kuehls's fault).

                    To run a four hour marathon, you need to run a 9 minute mile. I used to be able to run several miles at that pace, but this training program made me SLOWER. Here's the basic plan: there are two 20-30 minute jogs each week that are supposed to be done around a 12 minute mile pace (yeah, that's HARD--it took me a couple weeks before I could even get that slow). Your long run is supposed to be done at a 10:40 to 11:20 minute mile pace. Then you have one interval speed workout (at the beginning of the program) or a tempo run (at the end of the program to be done at a 8:40ish minute mile pace). How one fast run a week is supposed to prepare you for 26 miles at a 9 minute mile pace is beyond me. It didn't make sense at the beginning & I guess I'm the fool for following the plan anyway. If you want an easy training program, choose this one. If you want to run a 4 hour marathon, look for something else.

                    Now that the marathon is over, I need to work on building up the speed I lost over the last four months.

                    5 out of 5 stars 3 of us ran our 1st Marathon using ONLY this book!.......2007-10-10

                    My friend, my husband, and I ran our first Marathon using ONLY this book as a training guide and IT WORKED. It actually took 5 months (we had to do the one month get-in-basic-shape-advice too because we were not running AT ALL prior to using this book.) And I was doing it three months after having my first baby! Now, I did not actually run my marathon in 4 hours (it was 4:48) but I am very proud anyway -- I ran every step, I was never a runner and had never run longer than a 5k, and I had given birth 8 months earlier. Training for the marathon helped me shed the 40 lbs I had gained being pregnant. This book is simple, clear, and written for amateur runners with the crazy idea of a MARATHON! Go for it -- all three of us love Dave!!!

                    5 out of 5 stars Inspirational.......2007-06-15

                    I have yet to run a marathon and this book (which you can read in one sitting) is very inspirational and I am going to try it!

                    5 out of 5 stars Perfect guide to first time marathoners!.......2007-05-24

                    This book is the perfect guide to running your first marathon. It includes a step by step training plan and explains the various workouts. It also offers advice on clothing and food. It gives you the self confidence to start training by informing you of the fact that Oprah Winfrey ran a marathon in four hours!

                    5 out of 5 stars Great runner's guide........2007-05-08

                    i used this book to train for my first half marathon. The advice is practical and proven. I would highly recommend this book for beginners.

                    Guide to Southern California Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails
                    Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
                    • Great book!
                    • Palomar Mountain KLR on/off road motorcyclist
                    • Off Road Trails
                    • The best 4 x 4 guide books you can buy!
                    • Horrible quality
                    Guide to Southern California Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails
                    Charles A. Wells
                    Manufacturer: Funtreks Inc.
                    ProductGroup: Book
                    Binding: Paperback

                    GeneralGeneral | California | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    GeneralGeneral | Reference | Subjects | Books
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                    3. Backcountry Adventures Southern California: The Ultimate Guide to the Backcountry for anyone with a Sport Utility Vehicle (Backcountry Adventures) (Backcountry Adventures) (Backcountry Adventures) Backcountry Adventures Southern California: The Ultimate Guide to the Backcountry for anyone with a Sport Utility Vehicle (Backcountry Adventures) (Backcountry Adventures) (Backcountry Adventures)
                    4. Guide to Arizona Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails Guide to Arizona Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails
                    5. Four-Wheeler's Bible Four-Wheeler's Bible

                    ASIN: 0966497643

                    Book Description

                    A clear, concise guide to southern California's remote backcountry. Book includes 75 trails with detailed directions, GPS waypoints, 86 custom maps and over 340 quality photos. Sport utility owners will enjoy 50 easy and moderate routes to incredible scenic backcountry locations. Serious 4-wheelers will love our difficult Jeep trails. All routes were driven by the author. Trails are near Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Barstow, San Bernardino, Big Bear, Glamis, Truckhaven and Ocotillo Wells. Also included are the Mojave Road, Hungry Valley, Corral Canyon, Dumont Dunes, Last Chance Canyon, Sledgehammer Canyon, Calico Mountains, Superstition Mountain and Anza Borrego Desert State Park. We promote low impact driving and environmental responsibility.

                    Customer Reviews:

                    5 out of 5 stars Great book!.......2007-03-30

                    This is a great book for off-roading! My husband, our 2 golden retrievers and I have been on many of the trails. All the mileage markers are right on and easy to follow (especially if you have a GPS system). One MAJOR flaw in the book is it's terrible binding. Our first book literally fell apart on the second use, only held together by a big rubber band. I bought another one (is this the author's intention, you think?)and after receiving it, immediately took it to Kinko's where they spiral bound it for under $5.00 in just 5 minutes. It's even better than the original, because it will lay flat for easier use. I've purchased a total of 4 of these (for other off-roading friends!).

                    5 out of 5 stars Palomar Mountain KLR on/off road motorcyclist.......2007-02-20

                    This is a GREAT book. I have ridden on most of the trails, from Arrowhead, Big Bear to the Anza Borrego Dersert. With variety this wide, you can ride all year long, deserts in the winter, mountains in the summer. I have recommended this book to many other people who have purchased it and ridden with them on these trails and they have followed the book and gone on rides by themselves.
                    If you 4-wheel it or ride motorcycles make sure that you get a street legal motorcycle and buy this book.

                    5 out of 5 stars Off Road Trails.......2007-01-11

                    This book is great. I have gone to many of the places in the book since I bought it, many of which I did not even know about. The book makes the locations easy to find thanks to the listed GPS waypoints and you also know what to expect on the trails thanks to the information given.

                    5 out of 5 stars The best 4 x 4 guide books you can buy!.......2006-11-29

                    I would give these books ten stars if I could! I think I own every book Charles Wells has published. The information contained in these books is definitely the best you can buy. The trail descriptions, maps and helpful tips are invaluable when you are out on the trail. We have certainly enjoyed putting these books to good use.

                    My two Colorado books and especially the Moab book are dog-eared and well worn from many happy days on the trails. I too was surprised when pages fell out of the California book. I called the 800 number listed in all of the books and was surprised when the author answered the phone. I can tell you he was genuinely embarrassed by the quality problems in this printing. He told me he has since changed printers and the way the books are bound. He immediately offered to send me a new copy from the new printing at no charge! I asked if he had ever thought about a spiral bound version. He liked the idea and sent me a custom-made spiral bound version, and only asked that I let him know what I thought.

                    Mr. Wells, I wanted to tell you publicly that your customer service is the best I have ever encountered! My navigator, who is also my wife, said she really likes the spiral bound version and she hopes you bring those out for all your books. Thank you again for all the beautiful places we have visited as a result of your wonderful books!

                    3 out of 5 stars Horrible quality.......2006-07-19

                    I agree with the other posters- the book is made very poorly. I used it one time and the binding fell apart. Jeep without a top and pages shooting off into the wind... The material inside was excellent
                    Backroads of Southern California: Your Guide to Southern California's Most Scenic Backroad Adventures
                    Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
                    • Kinda Boring
                    • A pleasant picture-book
                    • Discover Where Only the Native Californians Know to Go
                    • wyman shares his knowledge and photos
                    • A 'must' for any Southern California visitor who would explore the back roads
                    Backroads of Southern California: Your Guide to Southern California's Most Scenic Backroad Adventures
                    David M. Wyman
                    Manufacturer: Voyageur Press
                    ProductGroup: Book
                    Binding: Paperback

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                    ASIN: 089658058X

                    Book Description

                    Highest, lowest, largest, oldest: Southern California is a land of superlatives, from the alpine summit of Mount Whitney (14,495 feet above sea level) in the Sierra Nevada range, to the salty pool at Badwater (282 feet below sea level) in the depths of Death Valley; from groves of giant sequoia trees standing more than 250 feet tall, to desert plants more than four thousand years old. To help you explore these sites and dozens more, "Backroads of Southern California"—written and photographed by a local expert and tour guide—features spectacularly varied and vibrantly seductive backroads and showcases the compelling scenery and colorful history in the lower half of the Golden State. Whether you’re planning a day trip, looking for unusual destinations, or simply want to learn more about the region, "Backroads of Southern California" will lead you deep into the soul of the southern part of the state—beyond the bustling cities and common tourist attractions. About the Author/Photographer: Dave Wyman is a professional photographer and freelance writer based in Los Angeles. The author/photographer of Voyageur Press’s "Backroads of Northern California," he has published articles and photographs in such publications as "Backpacker," "Outdoor Photographer," "Outside," and "Sierra." Wyman also owns and operates Image Quest, a natural history and photography tour company.

                    Customer Reviews:

                    2 out of 5 stars Kinda Boring.......2006-12-29

                    This book is not what I expected. It is more of a history lesson than an adventure guide.

                    4 out of 5 stars A pleasant picture-book.......2006-07-14

                    I originally thought this book would serve as a helpful travel guide for adventures on unknown So Cal roads...but it's really more of a nice coffee-table photo book with a bit of history wrapped around the shots. Great photos, though.

                    5 out of 5 stars Discover Where Only the Native Californians Know to Go.......2006-02-26

                    I grew up on Southern California. My family was always more attracted to the twisting two lane roads that wound through the hillsides, mountains and deserts than to the bumper-to-bumper traffic on the freeways.

                    Most people who visit Southern California will figure out that they can visit Disneyland, Hollywood, the San Diego Zoo and the many great beaches. But few will make it to the Rim of the World in the San Bernardino mountains, Morro Bay, San Simeon, Carrizo Plain, Elk Hills, Sequoia National Monument, Mount Whitney or Death Valley. Visit any of these lesser known sights, and you may have a life-changing experience.

                    David Wyman has a good sense of the land and its people. I liked the way that he combined images of natural majesty with rusting junk left over from the 1950s. Both are integral parts of Southern California's back roads. The historical photos lend depth to the book that would otherwise be stuck in one time dimension . . . the last 50 years. The book's many maps will also make it easier for you to find the route you need to follow. The essays do a good job of giving you a flavor for what you'll see and experience. I have been everywhere described in this book and would consider it a pleasure to revisit any of them.

                    If you haven't been to any of these places, plan a long weekend and have a ball!

                    5 out of 5 stars wyman shares his knowledge and photos.......2005-10-07

                    Dave Wyman knows California's backroads as well as Huell Howser! I've driven many of these roads, and am amazed at the research Dave has done to make their history, and their present, come alive in interesting, readable prose. His photography is colorful, easy to look at, and makes you want to be there. If you're headed to the backroads, or just want to travel by armchair, this book is for you!

                    5 out of 5 stars A 'must' for any Southern California visitor who would explore the back roads.......2005-10-06

                    David M. Wyman is a professional photographer and freelance writer based in Los Angeles, and has published articles and photos about his local area in many places: his Backroads Of Southern California: Your Guide To Southern California's Most Scenic Backroad Adventures blends color photos with maps and insights into Southern California scenes not normally featured in competing, more mainstream travel guides. From the railroad legacy of the Tehachapi Mountains to a little-taken exit to the lovely, less urban See Canyon Road, this is a 'must' for any Southern California visitor who would explore the back roads.
                    Backroad Trips & Tips: The Glovebox Guide to Unpaved Southern California with Selected Trails in Baja and Death Valley
                    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
                    • Excellent guidebook for exploring SoCal by 4X4 or trailbike.
                    Backroad Trips & Tips: The Glovebox Guide to Unpaved Southern California with Selected Trails in Baja and Death Valley
                    Harry Lewellyn
                    Manufacturer: Glovebox Pubns
                    ProductGroup: Book
                    Binding: Spiral-bound

                    Death ValleyDeath Valley | California | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    GeneralGeneral | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    ASIN: 0944781012

                    Customer Reviews:

                    5 out of 5 stars Excellent guidebook for exploring SoCal by 4X4 or trailbike........1999-07-09

                    This book is packed with useful information and loads of fun trips that can be taken in Southern California. It is spiral bound, so it's easy to keep open to the proper page. The author distills over 30 years of offroad vehicle experience into a wonderful guide. Worth every penny.
                    Backroad Wineries of Southern California: A Scenic Tour of California's Country Wineries
                    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
                    • Very infomative, but needs to be updated.
                    Backroad Wineries of Southern California: A Scenic Tour of California's Country Wineries

                    Manufacturer: Chronicle Books
                    ProductGroup: Book
                    Binding: Paperback

                    GeneralGeneral | Baking | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
                    Wine & WinemakingWine & Winemaking | Wine | Drinks & Beverages | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books
                    GuidebooksGuidebooks | Reference & Tips | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    PacificPacific | West | Regions | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    GeneralGeneral | California | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    North AmericaNorth America | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    GeneralGeneral | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    ASIN: 081180335X

                    Customer Reviews:

                    5 out of 5 stars Very infomative, but needs to be updated........1999-03-16

                    This book was very helpful for wine tasting in a sometimes neglected area of California. The book should also point out that some, if not most of the wineries mentioned also have outstanding restaurants! Some of the restaurants require reservations for even a chance at getting a table.

                    Also, since printing some of the vineyards have had name changes.

                    Overall, the book helped make our trip to southern California very pleasurable. It was certainly a good choice to bring along.
                    Backroads of Southern California (Backroads)
                    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
                    • Wonderful!
                    • Wonderful!
                    Backroads of Southern California (Backroads)
                    Bob Howells
                    Manufacturer: Gulf Pub Co
                    ProductGroup: Book
                    Binding: Paperback

                    HistoryHistory | Subjects | Books | Africa | Americas | Ancient | Arctic & Antarctica | Asia | Audiobooks | Australia & Oceania | Europe | Gay & Lesbian | Historical Study | Large Print | Middle East | Military | Military Science | Russia | United States | World
                    GuidebooksGuidebooks | Reference & Tips | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    GeneralGeneral | Regions | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    PacificPacific | West | Regions | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    GeneralGeneral | California | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    North AmericaNorth America | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    GeneralGeneral | Travel | Subjects | Books
                    ASIN: 0884151468

                    Customer Reviews:

                    5 out of 5 stars Wonderful!.......1999-10-19

                    This is a great book! Using it enables one to discover places that they never knew existed. The descriptions are great and the directions are very explicit and correct. We have taken 3 of the tours so far and had wonderful times! I am wondering if there is something similar for Northern California.

                    5 out of 5 stars Wonderful!.......1999-10-19

                    This is a great book! Using it enables one to discover places that they never knew existed. The descriptions are great and the directions are very explicit and correct. We have taken 3 of the tours so far and had wonderful times! I am wondering if there is something similar for Northern California.

                    Outcast (Sweet Valley High No 41)
                    Average customer rating: Not rated
                      Outcast (Sweet Valley High No 41)
                      Francine Pascal
                      Manufacturer: Bantam Books
                      ProductGroup: Book
                      Binding: Mass Market Paperback

                      Sweet Valley HighSweet Valley High | Sweet Valley | School | Series | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
                      GeneralGeneral | Literature & Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books
                      Pascal, FrancinePascal, Francine | ( P ) | Authors, A-Z | Teens | Subjects | Books
                      Look Inside Teen BooksLook Inside Teen Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
                      Similar Items:
                      1. LEAVING HOME (Sweet Valley High) LEAVING HOME (Sweet Valley High)
                      2. On the Edge (Sweet Valley High #40) On the Edge (Sweet Valley High #40)
                      3. Rumors (Sweet Valley High, No. 37) Rumors (Sweet Valley High, No. 37)
                      4. Hostage! (Sweet Valley High,  No 26) Hostage! (Sweet Valley High, No 26)
                      5. Pretenses (Sweet Valley High, No 44) Pretenses (Sweet Valley High, No 44)

                      ASIN: 055326866X
                      Release Date: 1987-10-01
                      10 Titles Sweet Valley High Series (40-49) : 40. On the Edge 41. Outcast 42. Caught in the Middle 43. Hard Choices 44. Pretenses 45. Family Secrets 46. Decisions 47. Troublemaker 48. Slam Book Fever 49. Playing for Keeps
                      Average customer rating: Not rated
                        10 Titles Sweet Valley High Series (40-49) : 40. On the Edge 41. Outcast 42. Caught in the Middle 43. Hard Choices 44. Pretenses 45. Family Secrets 46. Decisions 47. Troublemaker 48. Slam Book Fever 49. Playing for Keeps
                        Francine Pascal , and Kate William
                        Manufacturer: Bantam
                        ProductGroup: Book
                        Binding: Mass Market Paperback
                        ASIN: B000W70IAI

                        Product Description

                        multiple books ship as one item. save on shipping/handling charges.
                        Sweet Valley High #41 (Outcast)
                        Average customer rating: Not rated
                          Sweet Valley High #41 (Outcast)
                          Francine Pascal
                          Manufacturer: Sweet Valley
                          ProductGroup: Book
                          Binding: Mass Market Paperback

                          Sweet Valley HighSweet Valley High | Sweet Valley | School | Series | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
                          SchoolSchool | Issues | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
                          GeneralGeneral | Literature & Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books
                          Pascal, FrancinePascal, Francine | ( P ) | Authors, A-Z | Teens | Subjects | Books
                          Similar Items:
                          1. Family Secrets (Sweet Valley High) Family Secrets (Sweet Valley High)
                          2. Two Boy Weekend (Sweet Valley High) Two Boy Weekend (Sweet Valley High)
                          3. LEAVING HOME (Sweet Valley High) LEAVING HOME (Sweet Valley High)
                          4. Decisions (Sweet Valley High) Decisions (Sweet Valley High)
                          5. HARD CHOICES (Sweet Valley High) HARD CHOICES (Sweet Valley High)

                          ASIN: 055327693X
                          Release Date: 1987-10-01

                          Books:

                          1. STUDENT STUDY GUIDE TO ACCOMPANY INTERMEDIATE ACCOUNTING
                          2. Study Guide to Accompany Rittenberg - Schweiger Auditing
                          3. Teoria Contable Aplicada
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                          5. The Banking and Financial Structure in the NAFTA Countries and Chile
                          6. The Effects of Hyper-Inflation on Accounting Ratios: Financing Corporate Growth in Industrial Economies (Technical Paper (International Finance Corporation), 3)
                          7. The Essentials of Advanced Accounting II (Essentials)
                          8. The Financial Instituions Internet Sourcebook
                          9. The Financial Times Guide to Management and Finance: An A-Z of Tools, Terms and Techniques ("Financial Times")
                          10. The Japanese Main Bank System: Its Relevance for Developing and Transforming Economies

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