Book excerpt: Third Edition of Practitioners' Handbook for Capacity Development: A Cross-Cultural Approach explores an innovative approach to capacity development (CD) in the context of international aid. The book re-defines capacity development as a cross cultural interaction. It provides frameworks and approaches for those involved in CD processes internationally. Practitioners and their partners are encouraged to build mutual understanding about the connection between cultural values and the existence, nature and development of capacity. This departure from previous functional approaches to CD activities will increase chances of success and sustainability in developing country contexts.Who is it for?Those involved in development work with people from other cultures, such as aid program managers and implementers, advisers, project staff, researchers and volunteers will find this book useful.