Textbook
This course uses a custom course pack entitled "Finance and Business Strategy: FI414 Case Book (Spring 2012)", printed by the McGraw-Hill companies.
Two copies are reserved in the Business Library.
What is included in the pack:
13 cases published by Harvard Business School and Darden School of Business (University of Virginia).
For a list of the cases to be discussed in this semester, see the Schedule section
A manual written by Bob Bruner on how to value a business in an M&A (merger and acquisition) situation.
The pack is available in both printed and electronic formats.
Printed format:
Available at
Collegeville Textbook Company located at 321 E Grand River Avenue.
The cost is expected to about $89
Electronic version (eBook):
If you are interested in an eBook version, you can purchase an electronic copy from McGraw-Hill directly
The cost is $57.11
What is an eBook?
An "eBook" or "electronic book" is a digital version of a book.
It can be downloaded to a personal computer or Tablet PC (but NOT available on iPad or Amazon Kindle devices at this time).
A reader software called VitalSource (Windows or Mac) needs to be installed on your computer.
It allows you to search, highlight, and make notes on the eBook.
The eBook can also be viewed directly in web browsers without downloading.
You can print out the eBook for up to 3 times (I was told).
The digital files are protected with DRM (Digital Rights Management) and can be downloaded to up to 2 computers.
If you have further questions:
Contact McGraw-Hill customer service at the toll free number 1-800-962-9342 and select the STUDENT option. Technical support will be able to answer your questions.
My views about the eBook:
It is significantly cheaper.
However, most people are more comfortable reading traditional books than staring at computer screens.
Know what type of reader you are before making a decision.
Other recommended readings:
Your priority should be reading the case pack.
Certainly, reviewing any of your previous corporate finance textbooks can be very helpful, if needed.
You may want to review your previous accounting textbooks as well, if you have problem understanding financial statements (balance sheet, income, and cash flow statements).
I have a large collection of finance-related Kindle ebooks and I will be glad to loan to you for free if you are interested
Check out the list of my collections.