The paper library, not the code one.

• The Product Managers's Handbook, Gorchels 2006

A good overview of competitive strategy, pricing, marketing, and sales. Reminded me of Porter, only not as pedantic. Whereas the book is intended for professional Product Managers, a reading by technologists would be useful if undertaken to gain a basic footing in thinking about markets and competition. Recommended for Chris and Jon.

• As the Tables Turn, Doody and Rosen, 2007.

A colorful book written by Sue Doody, of Lindey's fame. Describes the history of German Village's best known restaurant, which after 25 years is a Columbus institution. Doody and family now operate one of the largest restaurant chains in America. Includes hilarious stories by some of Lindey's best customers, including my Neighbor, Mr. Fred Holdridge. Recommended for Keith, and Chris. And Eddie, who might actually spend more time at Columbus restaurants than I do.

• Dreaming in Code, Rosenberg 2007

I've been surprised by the lack of internet chatter about this one. Written by Scott Rosenberg, the co-founder of Salon.com, this book describes three fruitless years at OSAF, Mitchell Kapor's startup, attempting to produce a Personal Information Management Product called Chandler. I was entertained by the book, but embarrassed at the stratospheric heights these Architecture Astronauts went to keep from actually writting any code. To save everyone trouble, I already pulled the sofware down and it barely works.

• The Soul of a New Machine, Kidder 1981

This classic book won the Pulitzer Prize describing the construction of the first 32-bit Data General minicomputer. Recommended for everyone.

• Visual Explanations, Tufte 1997

If you haven't read anything by Tufte, I recommend that you start immediately. The books are beautiful, the prose is elegant and witty, and you'll know more about presenting information than nearly everyone else. This completes Innova's collection of the Tufte cannon. Not actually a new arrival, I've been hoarding this one at my place. This is the one that describes The Smallest Effective Difference, and other concepts important for information design.