The Small Business Start-Up Kit

Let me start by saying that I normally don't give reviews, so the fact that I am taking the time to do so, speaks volumes. This book is fantastic! When looking for books about starting a small business, it seemed that the majority of books are "inspirational" in nature. I needed information (specifics about forms and taxes, etc.), not inspiration. I am very impressed by this book. It is packed with useful information, and it provides resources for futher information. I teach Business and IT classes. If I ever taught a small business class, this would be the textbook for the class. It is simply a must for anyone wanting to start a business. Start here! You will not be disappointed.

This book is quickly becoming my bible. I'm planning on starting a business this summer, and this book is absolutely indispensable. I have pages underlined, written all over, dog-eared, with notes to ask certain people about certain things. I really don't think I could do it without the guidance this book provides. One of the best things is the tone of the book -- it lays everything out straightforwardly and simply, making you believe that you really CAN do what you want to do.

When I started reading this book I had an above average background in the ideas of business, although I still considered myself a beginner. I picked up the book because I am looking to start a business and wanted to make sure that I didn't make any fatal mistake when doing so. This book is as good as I could ask for. 1. It is well written, it is easy to read through and does not get too wordy or complicated. 2. While I read it cover to cover, it is also written in a way that makes it useful as a reference book. If you, for example, skipped to the partnership section, within that section it refers to where to find points explained elsewhere in the book, so that you are not lost just jumping in. 3. It not only explains the basics but also tells you were to go to learn more about everything. There many many references within the book along the lines of, "If you want to know more about this, consider reading _____'s book _____". 4. Uses many examples (if anything, more examples than you need) in order to demonstrate what they are talking about.

Skip the Small Business Administration or state small business websites. Forget the "For Dummies" or "Idiots" guides. This is the one book you need to read if you're serious about starting a business. From taxes to finances to planning entry into a market, Nolo's book covers the gamut. Starting a business sounds intimidating, but it's really not...if you have this book by your side. The CD-ROM has a couple of useful files, but to really get the most out of the book you may have to follow their recommendations for further reading. It's a great place to start, however. And be sure to order the latest edition, as laws change! [I reviewed the 5th edition.]

I have always trusted Nolo products so this book was a given for me. I like the CD that came with it. It is a very well written, easy to understand book.