Title and Author: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

Plot Overview: My mother became a manager about a year ago, and her boss gave her this book to help her manage her cantankerous team. It tells the fictitious but realistic story of Kathryn, who has just been hired as the CEO of DecisionTech. The administration (CTO, CFO, head of marketing, etc.) is a group of very skilled individuals who have no idea how to work together as a team. This is essentially a third person omniscient account of everything that the CEO does to help the team act cohesively.

Critique:

Even though the story is essentially a compilation of meetings, it's has no problem keeping the reader hooked. Every conversation is filled with conflicts, socially awkward people, and interesting observations. Because the book's aim is to educate, not paint a picture, it's incredibly streamlined. There are very few unnecessary diversions or plot points. If anything, the storytelling is a bit affected at times, as if the author is conscious that he's addressing an audience ready to drop the book at the slightest hint of stagnation. A little faith!

Cover Critique: The cover wasn't anything special. Very businesslike and practical.

Star Rating: I'd give this book a 4 for its usefulness, straightforwardness, and manageable size (I read it in one shot last evening).