Book excerpt: More than 63 million Americans now invest in stock mutual funds. Yet, among the thousands of available choices, less than five percent consistently beat the Standard & Poor's 500 index. the few managers able to surpass this venerable benchmark are a rare breed indeed. Wizards of Wall Street reveals the secrets of 18 of the world's most steadfastly successful mutual fund managers-all of whom have outperformed the S&P 500 over the past five years, many for much longer.Kirk Kazanjian, a noted investment expert and personal finance author, presents candid and telling interviews with each manager, tracing their careers and uncovering their successful stock picking strategies. Some, like David Alger, Thomas Marsico, William Miller, and Jim Oelschlager, are prominent in the press. Others, like Ronald Canakaris and William Oates, avoid the spotlight and rarely grant public interviews. Some look for growth at any price. Others keep a strict eye on value. Some buy only established giants. Others prefer small startups. All have indisputable track records, fascinating backgrounds, distinctive styles, and a wealth of knowledge to share.The book culminates with a penetrating look at the traits these pros have in common and provides a list of ten keys to beating the market. Engaging and enlightening, Wizards of Wall Street will captivate anyone interested in investing for both pleasure and profit.