I Hate Windows/but This Book Makes It Easy!/the Friendly Guide to Windows

Rating:
Summary: I no longer hate Windows because of this book.
Review: This book is a rare gem in the ever-growing world of computer how-to books; it's form and features are now used throughout the industry, but I feel I can safely call this book an original.

For starters, it's fun to read. Really. The author has gone a long way towards defusing the initial terror of computer usage with easygoing humor and an accessible style that neither preaches nor belittles the reader--you aren't a dummy, you just hate Windows!

Although laid out logically, this book can be opened anywhere for a quick learn and laugh. Odd bits of information are accompanied by pranks you can use on your co-workers with your new-found knowledge. Useless knowlege is made useful. (Typing high-ASCII charaters isn't a pain when you realize you can make filenames like IÂ¥4U [I Yen for you].) The stuff only nerds would want to know is labeled as such--and lets the reader return to the book knowing they can find a tip or a shortcut because they remember the humor that went with it.

One must ask, of course, if this whole approach works. When I first picked up this book in 1993, I knew nothing about Windows. Today, I know much, and teach others. It's all largely due to this book. I recommend it highly.