I'm partial to the Grantsmanship Center's "Program Planning and Proposal
Writing (PP&PW) - Expanded Version" publication.  I have attended their
3-day proposal writing workshop (excellent workshop and real hands-on) and
use their format as a starting point when I present proposal writing
workshops.  I like the publication so well that I keep copies on hand to
give to faculty and staff to keep.  (It is only $4 per copy and I think
discounts are available for larger orders.)  It is definitely not boring
and, in addition to giving good examples, also gives bad examples of
sections of proposals.  You can really see the difference.  The only
drawback is that it is not for basic research.  It is aimed at non-profits
who do social, educational, and cultural projects, but it works fine for
those types of projects for higher ed institutions, too.  I emphasize in my
workshops that it is a good format if the sponsor doesn't give you an
outline to follow, but regardless of the outline given, the same types of
information will be needed for all proposals.  I keep about 15 other "how
to" publications on hand and find myself going back to PP&PW again and again
because of its readability.  (No, I'm not on the Grantsmanship Center's
payroll!)

Barbara H. Gray                           Telephone:  803-953-5673
Director of Sponsored Programs            FAX:        803-953-1434
University of Charleston, SC              e-mail:     xxxxxx@cofc.edu
Charleston, South Carolina  29424