Wise old words.

When it comes to leadership, do you only want to know two things: how to attain and maintain it? If so, you may want to read Machiavelli on Modern Leadership by Michael A. Ledeen. In it, Ledeen captures the 500-year-old ideas of Old World philosopher Niccolo Machiavelli--author of The Prince, the literary classic on business, politics and war--and applies them to the present-day business world.

In Chapter 1, you'll learn what makes a "great Machiavellian" leader and why Microsoft mogul Bill Gates is cited as one. Chapter 3, "The War of Politics," gets into the specific characteristics of excellent leaders: "cold, prudent judgment, alertness to changing conditions, bravery under fire, courage when challenged, solidarity with your comrades-at-arms and total commitment to mission."

The book is replete with examples of other leaders, from Nelson Mandela and Margaret Thatcher to Shaka Zulu and George Patton. Some of the examinations, however, lack depth. (For example, only one sentence in the entire book is given over to Thatcher.) Similarly, Ledeen's opinions of Machiavelli's philosophy sometimes overshadow the principles themselves. Nonetheless, if you're looking to develop your leadership skills and want guidance from a wise source, this book is worth picking up.

Machiavelli on Modern Leadership: Why Machiavelli's Iron Rules Are as Timely and Important Today as Five Centuries Ago by Michael A. Ledeen (St. Martin's Press, $22.95)