The American Mosaic: An In-Depth Report on the Future of Diversity at Work.

The American Mosaic discusses issues related to the continuing diversification of the U.S. workforce. Although there are many quality publications on this issue The American Mosaic is an excellent addition. The historical context of diversity issues -- race, gender, age, sexual preference and

Although The American Mosaic exceeds 500 pages, a number of strong features justify its length. Part 1 focuses on the continuing diversification of the U.S. workforce and both the legal and practical reasons why organizations should value all employees.

The authors use current published material on diversity to support their conclusions and clearly state their opinions without being overemotional; readers won,t feel they are being preached to. This low-key approach is necessary since the authors do not avoid controversial topics. For instance, while acknowledging the current controversy about affirmative action programs and the problems of reverse discrimination, the authors recommend continuing these programs because their positive results outweigh their negative consequences.

Part 2 is the book's strongest section. It includes chapters devoted to each major demographic group in the U.S. workforce. Individual discussions focus on Affican Americans; Hispanics; Asian Americans; women; people with disabilities; older workers; and gay, lesbian and bisexual workers.

Issues are presented in a historical context to highlight the way most current problems have evolved over time. These discussions focus on the education and earning power of the major groups. Although many explanations can be made for the earning discrepancies among minorities, women and Caucasian males, it appears that educated minorities and women are paid less than similarly educated Caucasian males.

I was impressed by Carnevale and Stone's discussions about differences that exist within and between each group. In many cases, statistical data are used to illustrate points and support the authors' conclusions.

The American Mosaic also focuses on current organizational practices that impede the progress of minorities and women. Again, the authors do not avoid controversy. When discussing the problems women face with job advancement, the authors use the popular term "glass ceiling." However, when discussing problems African Americans face, they change the term to the "cement ceding."

Finauy, The American Mosaic is not a male-bashing, anti-Caucasian book. The authors note that there is diversity within each group. Although Caucasian males make up the dominant group in the U.S. workforce, not all are CEOs and managers. The continued diversification of the workforce represents unique challenges for Caucasian men as well. The affirmative action dilemma is just one exarnple.

While The American Mosaic isn't a "how to" book, it was enjoyable to read and an excellent reference for diversity-related issues. Carnevale and Stone do not try to tell us what to do or how to apply any principles of management, but they do give us a well-written book that is informative and highly recommended for any HR practitioner.