David Pogue has a rare ability to make a complex subject understandable. He did it with his 'Missing Manuals' Guides to System 9 and iMovies but had the good sense to wait until OS Version 10.1 before giving us the definitive step by step guide to the new system.
The language is non technical but each aspect of the system is clearly explained and more important how each can be used. To this he has added valuable hints and tips and for the more technically curious some explanation of the underlying Unix System.
This is a generously illustrated book which can sit by the computer as you follow the steps beginning with the new layout and going on to explain how to use every aspect of OSX. It is structured to lead both first timers and System 9 converts into the new OS with an opening chapter which takes the reader through the new way of dealing with windows, folders and desktop. This is complimented by an appendix which explains where familiar parts of the former system are now located.
This leads to a chapter 'Organising your stuff' which demonstrates the day to day operating of the system before going on to examine the new Desktop, the Finder Toolbar and the content of the Applications and Documents folders. Each of the programmes provided is analysed and considerable space is devoted to iTunes, iMovie, iTools and Quicktime. The structure of the book provides a step by step journey through the use of OSX but also allows the impatient to dip in and find answers or check the Troubleshooting resource.
From my experience of David Pogue's earlier books I awaited this one before jumping into the new system and I am very glad I did. Other books I looked at are much more superficial and the early ones are now out of date. There are two other reasons for buying this as the only OSX book you will need. Go to the publisher's site [...] and you can read a sample chapter and decide before you place an order with Amazon. On the site you will also be able to download all of the shareware programmes mentioned in the book and save the cost of an added CD.