This book is technically useful and it is an actual bound BOOK. However, it does not include the actual text of the National Electrical Code, only the authors' explanations and interpretations of the Code; thus you must have two books - this AND the Code. The NFPA Code handbook includes the actual text of the Code, followed by the explanation/interpretation. It costs more and is in a of the McGraw-Hill version and orderedflimsy spiral binder format, which sucks, but everything is contained in one book; and it is issued by the NFPA, which gives it a little more weight when discussing fine points with inspectors & such. I am returning my copy of the Mc-Graw Hill Handbook and am ordering the NFPA Handbook.