Book excerpt: 'There is considerable rigour behind the work and the contexts are well positioned. The books have excellent HR data for not only businesses, but employees considering a transfer to an international location. In addition to the primary authors cadres of industry advisors were assembled of considerable status and representing mainstream organisations and unions. The countries covered total twenty one and, in addition, there is a summary chapter in volume two on issues, trends and implications. Obviously there are other reference points available on single countries and indeed dual country comparisons, but this work is timely, highly relevant and extremely valuable. It is recommended most highly.' – Geoffrey N. De Lacy, Australian Human Resource Institute Journal 'A very welcome and valuable addition to the literature, this two-volume handbook covers current HRM policies and practices in all 21 APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) member economies. For the first time, we have single-source access to a codified set of macro-level HRM profiles for APEC membership economies . . . this project helps fill the need for systematic and accurate HRM data in a very large geographic area, including four continents divided by the Pacific Ocean . . . this is an impressive compilation and will benefit government and business organizations when formulating strategy for employment relations. It will also assist those in the academic sector with the research and teaching of cross-cultural management issues. It should be a welcome addition to most academic and special libraries with interests in the Asia and the Pacific.' – David A. Flynn, Business Information Alert It is becoming increasingly recognised that the way in which human resources are managed is a key source of sustainable competitive advantage for business. Nowhere, Michael Zanko argues, is this seen to be more relevant than in the Asia-Pacific region. The aim of the Handbook and its systematically codified economy human resource management (HRM) profiles is to improve knowledge and understanding of HRM policy and practices in the Asia-Pacific region. It serves as a practical guide to predominantly macro-level HRM policies and practices in ten APEC economies, covering Australia, Chinese Taipei (Taiwan), Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, People's Republic of China, Thailand and the United States of America. The Handbook of Human Resource Management Policies and Practices in Asia-Pacific Economies Volume I will be essential reading for lecturers, researchers, academics and managers concerned with human resource management, international business, management, and cross-cultural studies. The Handbook will also be of great interest to those involved in industrial and employment relations.