Sarbanes-Oxley for Dummies.

Sarbanes-Oxley for Dummies. By Jill Gilbert Welytok. Wiley Publishing, 364 pages. $21.99.

Perhaps it was inevitable. After presenting "For Dummies" books on a myriad of business and technology subjects, like Excel, computer programming and grant writing--as well as esoterica such as feng shui--those folks at Wiley have brought out one on Sarbanes-Oxley.

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The title may be off-putting, but for a readable, user-friendly guide to the infamous 2002 legislation, it might be hard to do much better. Author Welytok, an attorney specializing in corporate law and intellectual property, has fashioned an intelligent primer in which each chapter stands on its own but is connected to a larger framework that examines all the various facets of the law, ranging from its origins, audit committees, software, testing and internal controls, and more. The actual legislation is even reproduced in an appendix.

Like other "Dummies" books, this has a chapter on the "parts of tens"--lists such as "ten tips for an effective audit committee" and "ten smart management moves." The heavy use of big, boldface headers, symbols and the occasional cartoon set this book apart from most business volumes; indeed, the blaring presentation wears out its welcome quickly. But as a reference guide with concise, thoughtful tips on compliance and best practices, its appeal goes far beyond Sarbanes-Oxley dummies.