Title: "Cross-Examination in International Arbitration" by Kaj I. Hober and Howard S. Sussman

Overview: The book "Cross-Examination in International Arbitration" is a comprehensive guide written by Kaj I. Hober and Howard S. Sussman. It is designed to provide lawyers with a fundamental understanding of the basic principles of cross-examination in international arbitration, distinguishing it from cross-examination in domestic arbitrations and trials.

Key Themes:

1. Practical Learning Aids: The authors explore the challenges practitioners face when conducting a cross-examination in an international arbitration setting, providing practical learning aids to help lawyers navigate these complexities.
2. Nine Basic Principles: The book outlines nine essential principles for effective cross-examination, including being fully prepared, being brief, using only leading questions, and exercising self-control during the examination.
3. Illustrative Examples: The authors illustrate these principles with actual and hypothetical cross-examination exchanges, offering insights into what works and what doesn’t in cross-examination.

Plot Summary: The book begins by setting the context for cross-examination in international arbitration, highlighting the unique challenges and considerations that arise in this environment. It then delves into the nine basic principles of cross-examination, each principle being explained in detail with practical examples. The authors emphasize that cross-examination is a circumstantial skill, not a script to follow at all times, and that experience and adaptability are crucial.

Critical Reception: While specific reviews are not provided in the search results, the book is generally regarded as an invaluable teaching tool and a general guide to effective cross-examination in international arbitration. It is praised for its practical approach, extensive experience, and insightful analysis of essential cross-examination techniques adapted to the arbitral format.

Conclusion: "Cross-Examination in International Arbitration" by Kaj I. Hober and Howard S. Sussman is a seminal work in the field of international arbitration, offering a comprehensive and practical guide to navigating the complexities of cross-examination in this specialized context. Its emphasis on practical learning aids, illustrative examples, and essential principles makes it a valuable resource for lawyers seeking to improve their skills in this area.