Jeffrey Kluger is a senior editor and writer at Time magazine. We've all come across narcissists who think they are the center of the universe. What are the symptoms of this widespread and growing malady? First, an endless need for recognition, attention, fame, and admiration. Second, a sense of entitlement, that they are owed the rewards they crave.

Research psychologists say that narcissism exists side by side with a terrible exploitativeness, a willingness to take advantage of other people." A lack of empathy is another aspect of this self-centeredness. Finally, there is a tendency among narcissists to blame others for their errors or problems. Nathaniel Fast, professor of management and organizational behavior at the California has observed: "There's a fragility to the narcissistic personality, a pressure to be superior and the implicit need to prove how great they are."

With impressive creativity and helpful insights, Kluger presents chapters on:

• The Schmuck in the Next Cubicle
• The Beast in Your Bed
• The Bastard in the Corner Office
• The Peacock in the Oval Office
• The Chest-Thumping of the Tribe

Kluger concludes that narcissists are "emotional muggers, people who assault their victims with a combination of stealth and misdirection — leaping out at them in situations and at times when they have a right to feel safe and taking what they want." This top-drawer book will open many doors for you in its treatment of narcissism in movers and shakers as well as within yourself.