Mr. Modem's Internet Guide for Seniors

In Mr. Modem's Internet Guide for Seniors, columnist Richard Sherman explains what you need to know to get a Windows-based home computer connected to the Internet. He shows you how to select an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and tells you how to configure a Windows 98 computer to connect to it. Once he has you connected, Sherman explains how to send and receive electronic mail, participate in online chat sessions, search the Web for useful information, and participate in Usenet newsgroups. He also provides an extensive, annotated list of Web sites for every interest.

While the larger-than-average typeface used in this book may appeal to some mature eyes, other seniors may be put off by Sherman's tone, which sometimes seems patronizing. Readers may also be left wishing that the author would specifically recommend an e-mail program and explain how to use it in depth--as it is, he sort of glances over several programs. The verdict: Buy this book for the list of Web sites, since it's sure to contain something of interest to you. But check out some other books on Internet fundamentals. The Little PC Book and The Little Mac Book are good ones; so is The Internet for Dummies. --David Wall