Amazon.co.uk Review
Ever since the
Rough Guide to the Internet rocketed into non-fiction bestseller lists, publishers have tried to emulate its success.
The Guardian Guide to the Internet, written by
Guardian technology writer Jim McClellan, looks like another pocket-sized beginner's guide (though at almost 450 pages, it's designed for those with exceptionally large pockets). In terms of structure, however, the
Guardian guide is quite different. The emphasis is on explaining how to configure and use the various applications, facilities and hardware required to use the Internet as a functional tool--and not on long lists of Web sites.
What the Guardian guide lacks in wordplay and literary flair, it makes up for in clarity of expression and a straightforward and informal style. McClellan isn't net-crazed. "Unlike other net manuals, this one won't be mindlessly gung-ho about the net", he writes. "I am pretty enthusiastic about the online world. But there are plenty of things online I don't find that convincing as yet." Written from a UK perspective, the Guardian Guide to the Internet covers all the stock ground, including browser operation, FTP, Usenet, IRC and putting together a simple Web page. Interesting tips, which include some fascinating links, are seamlessly integrated into each chapter and compliment the main body of text rather than reiterate it.
This is not a reference book. At a page and a half, the index is too short for a book of this length. As a no-nonsense, easy-to-understand and comprehensive guide to the Internet consisting of more than just step-by-step instructions, however, this book is a good choice. --Josh Smith
Product Description
Newly updated edition of the Guardian's top-ten selling Guide to the Internet Internet use is increasing exponentially, with burgeoning suppliers offering myriad ways to join the information superhighway. But how to avoid being mown down by jargon at the first corner? The Guardian Guide to the Internet is written in practical, jargon-busting language, with straightforward advice for the newcomer and experienced Net user alike. It ranges from tips on where to buy computer hardware, to guidance on systems -- to Mac or not to Mac -- to recommendations about where to browse and how to navigate the corners of the World Wide Web. You'll find out about privacy, about safeguarding financial transactions, about what you can expect to find on the Internet and what you might want to avoid. And if you want to design your own web pages or site, you'll find out how to do that too. In a fast changing environment it's an essential guide: pragmatic, informed and up to the minute.
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