Public Administration: An Introduction

by Marc Holzer, Richard W. Schwester

Marc Holzer and Richard W. Schwester have written a fresh and highly engaging textbook for the introductory course in Public Administration. Their coverage is both comprehensive and cutting-edge, including not only all the basic topics (OT, budgeting, HRM), but also reflecting new realities in public innovations in e-government, the importance of new technology, changes in intergovernmental relations, especially the emphasis on inter-local and shared regional resources, and public performance and accountability initiatives. Public Administration has been crafted with student appeal in mind. Each of the book’s chapters is generously illustrated with cartoons, quotes, and artwork―all reinforcing the book’s theme that the field of public administration is rooted in the cultural and political world. Each chapter is also supported with a listing of key terms, exercises, and additional resources. The textbook is supported by one of the most comprehensive and easy-to-use instructors' manuals of any introductory text on the market today. It contains full lesson plans with activities to accommodate a broad range of teaching and learning styles for each chapter, PowerPoint decks for each chapter (with visuals and links embedded), 8 new long-term project / student presentation ideas, an updated 'Quotes and Notables' section with biographical information and media links for each chatper, updated test questions with answer keys, and updated terms and definitions for each chapter.

460 pages, Paperback

First published February 20, 2011

Reviews

[Benton Laufeysdottir · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to read this for class. It provides a really good base-level introduction to the world of Public Administration. In order to get the most from this book, look into the authors/articles mentioned throughout the chapters as simply reading Holzer will only give you the most surface glimpse of the different areas of study. However, the book is well-written and easy to follow. There are tons of great examples pulled from around the country, as well as sample tests, surveys, and reports that make it easier to get engaged.

[Andy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better than average textbook due to its incredibly easy to read narrative. The examples are solid and logical, adding to understanding. I like that the digital version often breaks up the text with quotes on the subject by famous people, historical & relevant paintings, or even a goofy political cartoon. Still, very occasionally dry or wandering, so 4/5.
Bs get degrees.

[Joshua Bupe · Rating 5 out of 5]

OK 👌

[Deborah Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I switched to this text this semester. It is much more up to date and inclusive than other pubilc administration texts I've reviewed.

[Jim Twombly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Better than most PA textbooks, but still a bit dry. Accompanying Powerpoint slides were not very helpful.