I really liked this book. On its cover are the words: "fast, simple and easy." I'm not sure starting a business can be done that way, but if someone reads this book they'll probably start a small business (or home business) quicker than if they did not read it.



The 16-point checklist on the inside of the front cover is the same list of questions I typically cover when I meet with SCORE.org clients as a counselor. The book goes on to provide the information I provide my SCORE.org clients. If you don't want to spend lots of time with SCORE.org counselors, then you can read this book and only get counseled by counselors regarding the questions you have after reading the book. You are sure to have some because the book is only 249 pages.



Although the business plan material in the book is cursory, it is still complete. You'll be best advised to consult other books and Web pages to find sample plans and templates, and to seek out counsel from SCORE.org volunteers to edit and proof your final plan for reasonableness.



I think the book is wonderful. However, in my humble opinion the cover design and page layouts were a little more childish than they should have been. The book loses a little credibility because of its appearance. I also think the title should have emphasized "small business" rather than "home business." Since home businesses typically will use a Web site or Web sites in a big way (and maybe eBay, too?), I think the book was deficient in not including sufficient material on Web sites and how they help in marketing efforts.



All in all, great book and a must-read for someone considering starting a business.