Book excerpt: Public relations is an essential element in effective and successful business today. The theory of public relations does not change but the practice develops with new ideas and methods of management and business. This fourth edition of 'The Practice of Public Relations' incorporates essential updating and covers new areas such as: *international public relations *crisis management *sponsorship *education and training *career prospects. In 'The Practice of Public Relations' fifteen contributors give well-reasoned, practical introductions to every aspect of public relations. Keys to the many different ways in which public relations can contribute to the achievement of objectives and the successful and harmonious operation of an organization are given thorough coverage. T This new edition has been prepared to embrace these changes so that CAM students and other readers are fully briefed on the latest issues in the realm of public relations. Sam Black, during his career, has played a significant role in the development of both the Institute of Public Relations and the International Public Relations Association. Contributors: John Cole-Morgan, Betty Dean, Rosemary Graham, Mark D Grundy, Jane Hammond, Brian Harvey, Danny Moss, Margaret Nally, Phyllis Oberman, Michael Regester, Douglas Smith, Tim Travers-Healy, Neville Wade, Sue Wolstenholme.