Rating: 
Summary: A Must Have Book for Any Grant Writer
Review: Patrick W. Miller has written an excellent book for anyone who wants to write a successful grant proposal. Grant Writing: Strategies for Developing Winning Proposals is full of useful information and is organized in the most effective way for the aspiring grant writer.One strength of the book is its focus on having the reader LEARN grant writing. The first time grant writer can use the book to guide her/him step by step through the process and that is good, but Grant Writing enables the grant writer to understand fully the ins and outs of the process. Patrick Miller has extensive experience as a grant writer, so what he has in Grant Writing comes after having written dozens of funded grant proposals. Grant Writing is a must book to have for anyone who wants to write winning proposals.
Rating:
Summary: Grant Writing Strategies
Review: Patrick W. Miller indeed provides strategies for winning grants in his second edition entitled, "Grant Writing: Strategies for Developing Winning Proposals." Throughout this easy to read book are limitless well-written definitions and descriptions, often in a sample format. Well thought out appendices and glossary of terms further strengthen the book. The exercises at the end of each chapter are excellent for the beginner, as well as a wonderful review for those with experience. Within the exercises, the reader has opportunities to locate, review, and analyze solicitations; writing activities before and after call for proposals; writing and editing of narrative; budget spreadsheets; and a simulated proposal process with examples. The sample exhibits throughout the book present realistic directions so that even the most timid grant writer could approach the process with confidence. Few details are left out of this book. For example, on page 73, the author not only emphasizes the various skills necessary to write a narrative, but he also includes the importance of "a place to write, tools for writing, time to write and a comfortable atmosphere away from distractions." It is the details that make it possible for this book to be an individual self-help course or for classroom use. If I were teaching a grant development class to community college instructors or non-profits, this book could be utilized for both settings. Federal grants can be confusing and often present themselves as a maze. Patrick W. Miller, PhD., eliminates the confusion through a thorough exploration of each topic area. Particularly helpful are the explanations of the various federal agencies that offer solicitations and the author has included details of websites and how to navigate those websites. In the preface, Patrick W. Miller, PhD., indicates that the book is designed "to walk funding seekers through the major phases of grant development." This is a true statement along with a variety of ideas and techniques that he presents to assist individuals and groups with developing a grant proposal. "Grant Writing: Strategies for Developing Winning Proposals" is an excellent resource and would serve multiple purposes for individuals and institutions that purchase the book. Linda Narum, MS, Grants Development Specialist, North Dakota State University Extension Service, Fargo, ND, and North Dakota State College of Science, Wahpeton, ND.
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