We are, claim the authors of this timely new book, entering the "fifth golden age of philanthropy" and this time it is different. Rather than offering a share of their wealth to the less fortunate, the new breed of philanthropists have made their money in business and are offering entrepreneurial and project management skills, too. This is an excellent insight into why the new age of philanthropy has dawned and what it means for those giving, receiving, and for governments and society as a whole.

Bishop and Green provide an excellent potted history of philanthropy, from its earliest roots in Renaissance Europe and the birth of modern capitalism, through Victorian and 20th century industrialists to the current generation of "philanthrocapitalists".

They make the point that the boom in giving is partly down to the rise of successful entrepreneurs as celebrities. This is a thoughtful investigation of an interesting area, including interviews with most of the key players, from business leaders such as Bill Gates to pop stars and politicians.