Mr Modem′s Internet Guide for Seniors (Paper Only) - Softcover

Sherman, RA

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0782125808 ISBN 13: 9780782125801

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, 1999

Synopsis

Of the more than 153 million Internet users around the world (87 million in the US), approximately 16 million are senior citizens. The number of new Senior Internet users continues to grow at a strong rate, partly as a result of sub-$1,000 PCs and new devices like WebTV and digital set-top boxes. Additionally, the increasing importance of e-mail, the Web, and e-commerce ensure that the Internet's explosive growth will continue.

About this title

Review

This title, written by techno-humourist Richard A. Sherman, is especially designed for technologically challenged people better acquainted with cataracts than computers. Written in a suitably large typeface, although not so huge as to be irritating, it covers pretty much the same ground as any beginners guide to the Internet.

Sherman, a public speaker, syndicated columnist and professional funny-man, has a breed of humour readers will either love or hate. The book is heavily targeted towards an American audience: the section on Microsoft's WebTV (which is only available in the US and Canada) is an obvious example of this. The author's repeated obsession with "tuna melts" (whatever those are) is equally inexplicable to those of British origins.

The reference section and acronym glossary is excellent, as is the step-by-step description of how to configure a dial-up connection. The chapter on communicating effectively online is equally commendable, and an appendix contains some very insightful and jargon-free Q&As from his Sherman's Modem column.

At times Sherman seems to lack a sense of proportion. The "Internet Chat" chapter, for example, contains a mammoth eight pages on Web-based offerings, and only three paragraphs outlining IRC (Internet Relay Chat). Despite this, Mr. Modem's Internet Guide for Seniors is a simple yet useful, enthusiastic and entertaining introduction to the interesting world of the Internet--even if you don't know what a "tuna melt" is. --Josh Smith

From the Back Cover

Winner of the 2000 Independent Publisher Online Award for best book in the Computer/Internet Category IPPY Logo

"Mr. Modem's book is filled with wonderful information for surfers of all ages! It's a terrific resource and so much fun to read." -Lindy Root, New Orleans, Louisiana

"An excellent map for navigating the Internet. Its lists of Web sites is especially valuable." Fred Brock, New York Times (8-6-00)

An anxiety-free, warm and friendly introduction to the Internet for adults, from first-time users to savvy surfers! You'll be amazed by all the Internet has to offer. [Goes in the box]

INSIDE this completely UPDATED EDITION, you'll learn how to

* Get connected and start surfing right away
* Send e-mail to friends and family
* Share photos across the Internet
* Meet people with similar interests in newsgroups and Internet chat rooms
* Become a savvy online shopper and find free products and services on the Web
* Participate in online auctions and swap music online
* Learn about palmtops, handhelds, and wireless devices for computing on-the-go * Obtain additional free articles on Mr. Modem's Web site

Edition details

• Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 0782125808
• ISBN 13: 9780782125801
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 448