In my opinion this is best and most comprehensive overview of modern VC practices available. Dr. Lerner is cleary the nation's leading authority on VC research and his experiences are detailed in this book.The case study format is organized into 4 themes (paraphrased): 1. Raising & Structuring Funds, 2. Making Investments, 3. Exiting Invesments, 4. Other forms of VC funds.so the lessons of each individual case study support a larger and organized theme. Furthermore, the case study format makes the book more entertaining than academic texts tend to be.If you are somewhat knowledgeable about private equity then this is a "must read". If you are a beginner make sure you become familiar with the ins & outs of private equity/venture capital before reading or else you may miss a lot of the value of this book.