I have owned a copy of this book for about 2.5 years, but just recently purchased a quantity from Overstocks, for students. This was one of my first books on the subject, and I found it to be very thorough in teaching safety, practicalities, set up of a studio, and how to apply specific techniques to make a variety of glass beads.
Very well written in clear and concise language, but with detailed information that the beginning glass bead maker/reader would need to know.
The excellent text format and layout of the pages combined with several full color photos per page is a treat for the senses...wonderful eye candy!
Cindy has included step by step instructions throughout, along with important and helpful border-highlighted, "Hot Tips" on almost every page.
As with most things artistic, there have been further advancements in this arena since its publish date of 2004, but these can be realized through other media such as online glass forums, glass magazines, and materials suppliers.
This is a must-have for your hot glass library, and should be one of your first reads on the subject.