S. Hocken, J. Fine. Breathe Business price £20.00; pp 153 ASIN

B00INYI19C

Moonwalking for dentists is a contemporary dental text written by business partners Simon Hocken, a dentally-qualified former practice principal; and Jonathan Fine, a marketing strategist with an impressive resume, who are the brains behind Breathe Business, a dental consultancy service.

The book itself comprises a hardback, ring-bound text, containing workbook-like contents. There are nine chapters that work through a journey of learning, self-discovery and action planning. Having space to fill in thoughts, dreams and plans allows the reader to progress through the different areas with an expected outcome of a defined action plan detailing how to achieve their aspirations. Along with exercise lines, the text is peppered with amusing illustrations and caricatures of the authors.

The first chapter looks at the authors' opinions of where we are with dentistry today and how these changes have come about – 'the 16 agents of change'. The following chapters focus on self-discovery and helping the reader to identify what they want from their profession and to evaluate their work-life balance through the 'wheel of life' exercise. The text details the different practice environments currently available well, ranging from 'the easyJet model' to the 'premium boutique practice', allowing the reader to understand the patient groups associated with each and how best to provide services for them. The final chapters look to the future and how to encourage and monitor business growth, with the use of key performance indicators.

This text has a very specific target audience and it is difficult to imagine that those not interested in owning a practice would find it useful. However, it did highlight some valid points and some of the 'exercises' regarding work-life balance and core values were helpful generally. It also provides an introduction to Breathe Business, their style and possible services they could offer you with useful contact details included.

For readers looking to expand their dental knowledge I would suggest looking elsewhere but for the entrepreneurial, forward-thinking associate with a desire to acquire a partnership/practice, it could prove very useful indeed.