'This is the first textbook on public sector accounting for non-specialists. The authors offer a well written text and an easy-to-digest introduction into the difficult terminology of accounting and into its basic concepts. All major issues of public accounting are presented and illustrated with a broad selection of practical cases from various countries. This book can certainly serve as basic textbook for public financial management courses at undergraduate and graduate level.' Christoph Reichard, University of Potsdam, Germany 'Financial considerations underpin public sector activity, especially in times of austerity. Even when resources are less constrained, competing alternatives have to be weighed and consideration must always be given to value for money. Accounting and budgeting are effectively the language which structures decisions relating to resource allocation and should be understood by those who participate in the process. Accountants, by definition, are well versed in the activity, but it is important that others also understand at least the fundamentals. This book provides non-specialists with access to such knowledge. As might be gathered from the title, the book deals comprehensively with straightforward accounting and budgeting. It does this in a lucid way supported by many worked examples. It also goes further by including consideration of the important aspects of public sector auditing and concludes with some useful reflections on financial management reform in the public sector.' Howard Mellett, Cardiff University, UK 'This book contextualises public sector accounting tools into the broader aspects of New Public Management ideals. It will be an invaluable guide to students, researchers and practitioners involved in understanding accounting, budgeting and performance measurement in today's changing public sector environment.' Zahirul Hoque, La Trobe University, Australia 'This is a readable book on accounting and budgeting for non-specialists with easy examples and clear cases. Technical issues are organized in a well-structured text. It is a very useful tool for practitioners and policy makers.' Carlos Jorge Salgado, Hertie School of Governance, Germany