JAN 21, 2004
Mac guide for old folks and newbies

The Old Fart's Guide to the Macintosh (Second Edition)
Aaron Rosenzweig.

By Michael Vallance

For US$29.95 plus US$9 for shipping (total about S$66)
Available online at www.coconutstech.com

Overview: With the eye-catching title, The Old Fart's Guide to the Macintosh by Aaron Rosenzweig appears to be written for those in the prime of their life - the over 50s. It uses simple language: no techno-babble, easy-to-follow system and application guides, tips on how to squeeze the most out of today's Apple computers, some Apple history and much more. All 410 pages to be read lounging on your sofa.

But don't put the book back on the shelf just yet, youngster! The Old Fart's Guide is so helpful that younger Mac users will be delighted at its clarity, conciseness and wide range of topics covered.

The book interestingly details the evolution from OS 9 to OS X (10), shows you how to set up a Mac for multiple languages, access the Internet, use AppleWorks for word processing, database development and spreadsheets, and burn DVDs and VCDs. The second edition of the Old Fart's Guide also discusses Panther OSX 10.3 in detail.

Reviewer's comments: If you have just bought a new Mac, forget those boring manuals. Buy The Old Fart's Guide to the Macintosh and laugh while you learn. It's especially informative for beginners.

Michael Vallance is from the Mac Users Group of Singapore. Its website is at www.macuser.org.sg