My Take: First Rule Of Book Club — Do Talk About Books

By Jane Alexander, Deputy Editor

A small, framed quote hanging on my kitchen wall sums up my approach to life fairly accurately: “When I have a little money, I buy books. If any is left, I buy food and clothes.” I’ve hauled that darned thing around from one domicile to another for more than 30 years—and it still makes me smile whenever I read it. 

Books have always been a passion of mine. News or discussions of a good one, whatever the topic, whatever the source, are a sure-fire way to send me to Amazon Prime. And as long as I’m ‘fessing up, let me say that I like my books the way I like my magazines—in print. Nothing wrong with books on tape, digital editions or online articles. Same goes for nifty little e-reader devices. (As my husband  frequently reminds me, his keeps him occupied nicely as I meander through brick-and-mortar stores.) I just prefer the feel of a real book and turning real pages.

One of my most recent impulse buys, Well Said! Presentations and Conversations That Get Results, by author Darlene Price, was sparked by a short Forbes article entitled “13 Things You Should Never Say at Work.” In it, staff writer Jacquelyn Smith emphasized Price’s contention that there’s one reason leaders are seen as leaders: Their words compel people to follow. The wrong words don’t. To refresh yourself on phrases that are inappropriate in a workplace, click here. Then try to get Price’s book, if not for your personal library, then for your department or site.

As I ordered my own copy, I began wondering about books that might be providing inspiration for you and your team these days: not the heavy-duty technical titles so crucial to effective equipment-asset management, but rather those from outside the maintenance and reliability arena that are helping you do your jobs better. If you have one or more favorites, I hope you’ll share.  Starting in our April “Stuff Happens” section, you’ll see a new “Book Club” box. Help us fill it.

We’re looking for 50 words or less on individual books that you have read and believe to be of value to other maintenance and reliability pros. For each submission, tell us the title, publisher and why you think ideas in the book could be important for MT readers. Be sure to include your name, title, company and complete contact info, in case we need to get in touch with you.

While we welcome reviews of just about any literary category, including business, fiction, history,self-help, real-life adventure, etc., good taste and respect for Book Club’s mission are of the essence. Hint: 50 Shades of Grey and Winning Craps For The Serious Player are examples of inappropriate titles. No haters allowed, so stay away from politics, college football and the like. Authors, publishers, booksellers and professional marketing types need not apply; we know of other opportunities and venues through which you can promote your faves.

Email your recommendations directly to me, or use the form at www.mt-online.com/bookclub. For now, the last rule of Book Club is this: Do let us hear from you often. If more rules are needed, I guess we’ll make ‘em up as we go along. MT

jalexander@atpnetwork.com