MOM, Incorporated

September 1, 2011

Sherman (The Complete Idiot's Guide to Crowdsourcing) and Smith (founder, www.extraordinarymommy.com) provide the nuts and bolts for parents wanting to start a home-based service- or product-oriented business. They introduce the KISS principle--Keep it Simple, Sister!--and include handy planning worksheets throughout (also available for download via MomIncorporated.com). A solid business perspective is supplied, with practical info on accounting, taxes, patents, insurance, and more. The authors also cover time management, PR/marketing, and legal advice. One chapter focuses on creating a workspace whether in a closet or at a cafe, and there is information on bartering to trade, say, building a website for your bookkeeper for bookkeeping services. The authors advocate asking for help and not succumbing to a "supermom" model while dealing with the constant challenge of juggling work and family. Virtual assistance and opening an online store are also explored. The guide emphasizes creating a business plan and really thinking out your strategy. VERDICT This is a helpful business resource for parents. Those looking to turn a blog or other online presence into profit should also read Audrey McClelland and Colleen Padilla's The Digital Mom Handbook (reviewed above).--Barb Kundanis, Longmont P.L., CO

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