This book addresses a topic not widely discussed: leadership roles of ethnic-minority librarians. Focusing on Canada, the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom, Kumaran broadens the definition of “ethnic minorities” beyond common usage, inviting readers to expand their views: “the terms ethnic-minorities, visible minorities, new immigrants, immigrants . . . are used interchangeably and they all mean minorities in majority white countries” (3). Using definitions, examples, and statistical data, the author provides a clear snapshot of the status of ethnic minorities in library leadership.

The book’s five chapters discuss differing definitions of leadership in different cultures and professions; the difference between management and leadership; leadership styles; leadership skills; and leadership in libraries. The introduction defines “visible minorities” and gives a modern-day example, President Barack Obama (6), and the following chapter discusses the some of the perils of the visible minority, such as their higher rates of unemployment. On leadership styles and skills; the chapters cover a vast array of topics and emphasize essential skills such as time management, organization, and communication both externally and internally. One chapter specifically discusses library leadership in three settings—academic, public, and school libraries. The author makes interesting comparisons among the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia in terms of the library leadership culture, particularly with regard to funding, historical information, recruitment, and leadership programing.

Perhaps the most profound point of this book is the author’s statement that “What you have learnt can fit into your palm, what you haven’t is as big as the universe” (xxii). In addition to the text, this book shares a wealth of useful information displayed in charts, tables, references, and appendixes.