This small book (currently only 155 pages) contains nine chapters covering topics such as the National Labor Relations Act and the Union’s right to know, to name a few. Each chapter is packed with real-world information written for the shop steward who doesn’t have a college degree. Illustrations and examples are often placed alongside appropriately labeled sections. Note: At the end of each chapter there is a handy Questions and Answers section that gives the reader an idea of ​​how to apply the knowledge provided in that chapter. Dotted throughout are areas marked with a handy “JOIN POINTER” designation along with an image of a pointing hand to point out those areas that should catch your eye.

One of the features I like the most is the notes section. Throughout the book you will find numbers in seemingly random places. These numbers are linked to the Notes section in the back beginning on page 120. This section contains references to the NLRB and court decisions that relate to the sections of the book. For example: When you are reading the Chapter on the Union’s right to know, specifically the part on interpretation of contracts and you see a numerical reference of 52. Go to the notes section and you will find all the notes in numerical order. Just look for number 52 that says “See Norton Intl., Inc., NLRB Div. of Judges, Sept. 30, 1993.” This reference can be searched on Google or on the NLRB website http://www.nlrb.gov. Many times I have won arguments with companies simply because I was able to provide real case references to back up my arguments.

There’s also a section on other federal labor laws, a list of all current NLRB offices, and an excellent handy index.

After all that, could there be a downside to this book? Yes, I’m sorry to say there is. Although not a big deal, the legal rights of shop stewards fall short in the chapter on the grievance process. You spend little or no time on the nuts and bolts of writing or filing a complaint. Instead, it focuses on the rights and protections that the law affords not only to the grievant but also to the administrator. Now while this counts against this volume, I have been informed that Mr. Schwartz has written another book specifically geared towards complaint procedures. I, for one, hope to receive a copy and review it here.