Book excerpt: This invaluable guide provides comprehensive profiles of more than one hundred hot new businesses that promise the top opportunities for small-business people in the future. Paul and Sarah Edwards explore the best opportunities for self-employment in the next century--ranging from being a business-network organizer to running a transcript-digesting service--and provide expert, step-by-step advice on:? the skills and knowledge needed to startup;? the start-up costs, pricing, and potential earning;? the best ways to get new business;? the advantages and disadvantages of each business; ? the hands-on advice of those already in the field.In addition to the nearly one hundred businesses profiled, an expanded section on "The Best of the Rest" explores dozens of additional top businesses to watch for. The Best Home Businesses for the 21st Century is the smartest, most complete book available for anyone looking for right ways to make it on their own.