Book Description

As part of the CyberRookies‘ series this book is written for aspiring programmers, and teaches basic programming skills that can be easily applied to any language including the key concepts of Loops, Strings, Array, Pointers, and more. Written by a high school programming teacher, Learning Computer Programming emphasizes the most relevant topics for beginners and pinpoints the essentials of programming success. There are so many programming languages in use today that it’s difficult to decide which one to learn, especially for beginning programmers. With this in mind, Learning Computer Programming: It’s Not About Languages focuses on "programming" skills instead of specific languages. Languages will always change so to become an effective programmer, it’s important to understand the fundamentals before tackling a specific language. The book is language independent and uses examples from a variety of languages including the most popular C++, JAVA, and HTML, which each have a chapter devoted to them. Using helpful hints, activities, and watchouts, the book gently guides the student through the maze of programming techniques, concepts, and pitfalls.

KEY FEATURES

- Primarily language independent except for the last three chapters, which are devoted to languages of most interest to the reader: C++, JAVA, and HTML
- Introduces key programming concepts while avoiding denser topics of language syntax
- Discusses concepts such as Loops, Strings, Arrays, Pointers, Boolean Types, and more
- Taught by a programming teacher who knows the topics that are relevant for beginners ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Read this one first!
After reading programming for dummies and learning an arcane language I was left wishing for a better book to expose me to the basics of programming. The subtitle of this book is "Its not about languages" and that is the approach of this book. Farrell focuses on the logic of programming and mentions the actual syntax in passing. This makes this book valuable and a helpful tool for all programmers no matter what their language destination is. I wish that I had read this book first!

Good overview for beginners
I bought this book as a refresher, since I had taken a programming class several years ago and wanted to re-learn the basic concepts. This book is good for doing just that. It will help a beginner get familiar with the concepts, and it goes easy on the more complex stuff. Anyone who is interested in programing but gets scared off by books that are hard to read should read this book first. It will lay a good foundation and make other books easier to read.

PROS: easy to read, use simple language.
CONS: author sometimes tries too hard to simplify explanations, some typos (a couple that will stop the code from compiling)

Overall, a good book. The cons, even the typos, are not that bad, you just need to be paying attention when you read. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Calling upon accounts of political intrigue and tales of life and death,author Simon Singh tells history's most fascinating story of deception andcunning: the science of cryptography--the encoding and decoding of privateinformation. Based on The CodeBook: The Science of Secrecy from Ancient Egypt to Quantum Cryptography,this version has been abridged and slightly simplified for a younger audience.None of the appeal for curious problem-solving minds has been lost, though. FromJulius Caesar to the 10th-century Arabs; from Mary Queen of Scots to "Alice andBob"; from the Germans' Enigma machine to the Navajo code talkers in World WarII, Singh traces the use of code to protect--and betray--secrecy. Moving rightinto the present, he describes how the Information Age has provided a whole newset of challenges for cryptographers. How private are your e-mailcommunications? How secure is sending your credit card information over theInternet? And how much secrecy will the government tolerate? Complex but highlyaccessible, The Code Book will make readers see the past--and thefuture--in a whole new light. (Ages 14 and older) ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Fascinating. Started me on my cryptologic studies.
Reading this book gave me my start in my self study of cryptography, its science and its history. While I will not pretend to be anywhere near an expert on the subject, I found this book very insightful. It is an easy read, and not tedious in any way. It is meant as a "science for non-scientists" type book, and more of a history than anything else. (I have only managed to solve the first two cryptologic challenges at the end of this book, but am diligently working on the rest in my spare time.)

Delightful
The Code Book is a delightful treatment of the subject of cryptography. It is a nice combination of history, science, warfare and politics.

The author uses interesting historical events as background to narrate the different phases of what might be called the mainstream developments of cryptography and cryptanalysis. It is a captivating presentation.

The book started off with the story of Queen Mary of Scotland, and went on to cover the Caesar cipher, Vigenère cipher, the famous Enigma, the super-secret Colossus, and the modern day computer based encryption and decryption developments. The author also threw in a couple of interesting "sideline" stories, such as the Beale cipher, the Rosetta Stone, and the Navajo "code talkers" who played a key role in the Pacific theater during WWII.

My teenage son used to complain that most of the difficult subjects he learned in school would never have any use in real life. I gave him a copy of this book. The book is a compelling story of how science, engineering, mathematics, computer, linguistics, psychology are all critical pieces of this all-important game.

There are more technical treatises on this subject, and there are more lengthy and nuanced historical accounts on military intelligence as well. But this book is undoubtedly the best introduction to this uniquely fascinating subject.

A must read for anyone remotely interested in codes!
I have always been fascinated by codes and Singh has put together a comprehensive book on the history of codes. Having read many books on codes, Singh was still able to enthrall me with some historical stories that I had not come across. It's not just technical stuff, but is written with the novice in mind as well. But the book holds enough technical information to keep the enthusiast interested as well. The version I bought has a crypt contest in the back, which I enjoyed working on - I was only able to solve the first 3 or so puzzles, but it was a lot of fun.

Provides plenty of depth and information
The Code Book was intended for a young adult audience but also holds an ability to interest an adult readership as well. This history of cryptography provides plenty of depth and information on making and breaking codes, providing a historical background on an ongoing battle which has been waged for centuries. An intriguing look at codes and secrecy. ... Read more

Book Description

"The best computer class I have ever taken!" and "I never knew that computers could be explained so well!" are frequent comments by Web Wise Senior students. Since 1999, Web Wise Seniors has successfully taught thousands of beginning computer users. Now, for the first time, the same teaching methods successful in Web Wise Seniors courses are found in this easy to understand book.

This book is not a reference for computers. It is a learning guide for people of any age who are unfamiliar with computers, but especially designed for seniors who want to be skilled computer users. It is like having a private instructor by your side as you walk through the basics of computer use with your book. This book is full of common questions, asked in real classes by beginners, with easy to follow answers that have already helped thousands.

Reading explanations and definitions will only get you so far. You need to actually use the computer to learn to use it, and this book will help you do just that. It will help you get started using the computer by walking you through basic skills step-by-step while answering your "whys" and "whats" along the way.

Web Wise Seniors teaches basic computer classes every day. WWS has seen what works, what doesn’t work, and what beginners want to know first hand.

TOPICS INCLUDE: turning the computer on, explanations of the Pieces and Parts, using the mouse, working with windows, saving, navigating through the computer, customizing and organizing the computer, installation, the recycle bin, definitions of terminology and much more! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

These guys ROCK and... they ROCK!
Hands on. Head first. This style worked for me. I am doing cartwheels on my new hips! ... Read more

Book Description

A Java edition of our popular test prep book for AP Computer Science prepares students for the AP CS exams in Java, starting 2004. Thorough review chapters cover all of the A- and AB-level material and the Marine Biology Simulation Case Study. Includes four complete practice exams, two A and two AB, with no overlap. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Great Review Manual for the AP Comp Sci Exam in Java
Maria Litvin has done an extraordinary job of putting together the new "Be Prepared for the AP Computer Science Exam in Java". This review manual, which has enough detail to double as a text book, has everything students need to focus on prior to taking the exam. It addresses everything in the ETS Java subset that students should have studied during the school year and has outstanding multiple choice and free response practice exam questions. The tests even include questions about the Java Marine Biology Simulation program which students need to know for the exam. Her web site also includes the 2003 C++ free response questions, which have been translated into Java. If you are searching for a great review manual with great practice questions, this is it!

Definetly Better then Barron's Guide for Review
The Barron's giude is very nice, but it basically reteaches evrything for the student, which is only good if you have the typicall AP Computer Science teacher, like the ones in the Reviews : My teacher was horribale, she doesn't know anything about Java/C++/Pascal. She only knew about some other language and never assigned homework and was just horrible. If that is your teacher then get barron's, but if your school is respectable enough to actually try to get a good Computer Science teacher then get this book, it actually reviews. Another plus over barron's, this book actually has tips and an introduction to the test, Barron's only has 3 pages compared to a chapter with Litvin's guide on this subject.

Be Prepared for the AP Computer Science Exam in Java
I haven't read this book, so I am rating it on how I think the book would go, judging from the web-site. I am just saying that if you can only get one book to prepare for the AP Computer Science test get this one since this isn't available in any libraries in the U.S., or anywhere but the other AP Computer Science books are.

Evene better than their C++ version
I used their C++ version (ISBN 0965485366) for several years and my students loved it. This Java version is completely rewritten for the new exams in Java but in the same to-the-point style. Very complete review with four practice exams. It is slightly bigger than the C++ version: the Marine Biology case study chapter is included (used to be online). ... Read more

Book Description

"I liked the approach, the content, and the presentation so well, I had to rate this a 10."

— Raymond Lodato, Slashdot contributor (Read the Slashdot review.)

• Your family and friends know everything you're doing on your computer!
• Someone is impersonating you during an instant messaging session.
• Sudden dropouts and lag occur during online game play.
• Your computer crashes unexpectedly and for no apparent reason.
• Mysterious pop-up windows appear at strange times.

This is a book about computer security and privacy, written especially for the many people who, just like you, are taking advantage of all the Internet has to offer. It goes beyond the "beware the dangers of chat room" warnings you're already aware of and tells you not only how to protect your computer form the latest invasions of viruses, worms, and Trojans, but also how to fight back and actually do something about them.

• You know how anitvirus tools and firewalls actually work&emdash;and how they can fail.
• You play online games without leaving your system open to attack.
• You can surf the Web and shop without leaving any traces to follow.
• You can clean viruses off a system&emdash;and even get paid for it!

Read a great review on About.com!

Parents with "computer active" teens: check out this review ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Treats you like an adult
The Apress publishing house has been making a name for itself with ultra-indepth technical texts for computer users. Here, Appleman gives us something slightly different. He pitches this book towards you, the teenager. All he assumes is that you use a computer connected to the Internet. You might perhaps have little or no prior experience. That's ok. He goes through a bunch of things you should be aware of. Like viruses and worms, and what to do if your computer gets infected. Or how to be cautious in chat rooms and when using Instant Messaging.

Appleman does go into a reasonable level of detail. More perhaps than a comparable Dummy's or Idiot's book. He believes that there is a certain modicum of detail you should know, and he does not dumb down a topic below that level. He's treating you like an adult.

Speaking of which, there are two other audiences for this book. One is parents. The other is teachers or librarians. There must be members of each group wondering if they need to catch up to their kids on this stuff. And casting around for a good text.

Timely Book
I wish the students of the university where I work would read this book...I wish the faculty and staff would read it as well. I wish my mom and younger brothers would read this book.

It was refreshing to find a book that tells the average computer user what they need to know to protect themselves when using a computer, both on and off the Internet...without making them feel stupid or forcing them to muck through tons and tons of details and complexity. I really appreciate the position that both technology and behavior are necessary to keep oneself safe when using a computer. Sure, the particulars will change over the years, but the lessons of personal responsibility and being necessarily cautious will endure.

This book covers all the major security threats faced today by average users. While targeted at teens, most anyone who uses a home computer, uses email regularly, or shops online will benefit from this book. It hits it all...wireless security, proper passwords, using a credit card instead of a check card when online, refusing 3rd party cookies... Chapter 5, the one on firewalls, does get long...but the author readily admits and warns the reader about that ahead of time.

At our university, we constantly fight the notion that, "the school has a firewall, so if my computer gets infected when using the school's network, it's your fault and the university should fix my computer." This book, and I'm so glad to see it covered starting on page 59, explains that when getting on a local network equipped with a firewall / router protecting you from outside attacks you are still vulnerable to attacks and infections from other local machines. It's your responsibility to install a software firewall and antivirus program to protect yourself from other students bringing infected systems in behind the firewall. I'd like to see that all incoming students read this book...either as part of their orientation or as part of their basic computing class.

Another issue we face at our university that's addressed in this book are the emails that pretend to be from someone else but are really from an infected third party. I routinely get calls from users wondering why they are getting virus warnings about messages they never sent or from others on our campus. This situation is explained (with pictures!) on page 25. I'm almost tempted to steal the picture and explanation to give to people when they call...instead I'm going to recommend this book to them!

Thanks for this timely book.

Now I feel protected!
I am a software engineer developing complex software products in the last 20 years mostly on Sun and Linux machines. I never invested the time to learn the Windows operating system since it was that toy operating system on my single home computer which was used mostly by my sons to play games. The machine was rarely connected to the Internet through a slow dial-up and thus was rarely attacked by viruses.

But....in the last few years something has changed. I now have 3 computers at home....all connected on a local network and permanently connected through a cable modem to the Internet. My computers are under constant attack by viruses and I had to re-install the O.S. several times...loosing a lot of valuable data in the process.

I bought the "Always Use Protection" book for my sons so they will learn to protect themselves from attack....and started to read it myself. I found it very easy to read and providing the right level of information. Although I am in the software business I did not know how viruses really operate and what weaknesses they use to cause damage.

The book is organized well. You first learn the essentials....i.e. having a firewall, installing antivirus and making sure you have the most recent security patches. Later the book moves to important but less essential topics like reducing SPAM, ad-ware, and protecting privacy.

It took me few hours to read the first essential chapters and then a weekend to re-install my computers' O.S. and upgrading them with the most recent patches. I feel now more protected and in control. I continued by reading the rest of the book and changed my web browser settings, my email tool setting, etc. to block ad-ware and SPAM....and there is a significant difference in the systems behavior.

I asked my sons to read the book too. This is important since some of the protection is coming from change of behavior. The book is explaining well what not to do if you want to protect your security and privacy

Overall...I find this book to be a great tool to learn and improve computer security.
Read and enjoy...

A great book
This is a well written easy to understand book about security. Mr. Appleman gives clear, concise how to's to keep your system uncompromised.

Great material for teens (and readers of all ages)...
Target Audience
Although the title suggests it's for teens who need to know the basics of computer security, it could also be useful to the vast majority of average computer users of all ages.

Contents
The book is written to cover the basics of computer security (firewalls, antivirus software, privacy, etc.) from the perspective of teens who use the computer in unique ways. The content is divided into four parts:

Part 1 - Protecting Your Machine - Gremlins In Your Machine; When Software Attacks: All About Viruses; From Sneaks To Slammers: How Viruses Get On Your System; The Built-In Doctor: Antivirus Programs; Guardians At The Gate: Firewalls; Locking Up, Part 1: Software Updates; Locking Up, Part 2: System And Application Configuration; Backups: The Most Important Thing You'll Probably Never Do; What To Do When You've Been Hit

Part 2 - Protecting Your Privacy - When They Think It's You, But It Isn't: Identity Theft; Passwords: Your Key To The Internet; The Traces You Leave Behind: What Your Machine Says About You; Every Move You Make, They'll Be Watching You

Part 3 - Protecting Yourself - Chat Rooms, Public And Private; Scams

Part 4 - Appendixes - Everyday Security; Registry Tricks; A Note For Parents; Index

Review
"The Teen's Guide To Safe Computing"... No, this isn't a moralistic guide to what sites are good and bad for your kid to be visiting. "Always Use Protection"... It's a book on what and how to secure your computer from attacks and scams, written with the unique needs of the teenaged computer user in mind. But don't let that stop you from reading the book if you're a parent (or even if you don't have kids). You'll learn plenty.

As you can tell from the table of contents, Dan Appleman covers the gamut of issues related to computer security. You'll learn what viruses are, and how they can get onto your computer in the first place. By using antivirus software and firewalls, you'll learn how to actively defend against virus attacks. And by keeping your software up to date, you'll lessen your chances even further of being a victim of the latest virus sweeping the internet. Appleman also goes into privacy and identity theft on the internet, and what you need to know about not exposing too much information that could be used against you.

So why is this written for teens? The typical teenage computer user fits a different profile than the adult computer user. There's more use of instant messaging and chat rooms to stay in touch with friends, as well as participation in file-sharing networks and online gaming sites. These types of computing activities can leave certain pathways open to your computer and make it more susceptible to attack. Rather than just say "don't do that" (which would be ignored anyway), the author explains how taking the right precautions can keep your computer from becoming the latest victim, while still participating in activities that you enjoy. The tone is light, humorous, readable, and non-judgmental, and shouldn't pose an issue to any teen's sensibilities.

But quite honestly, you could drop the word "teen's" from the title, and this would still be an excellent book for the vast majority of average computer users. Based on how viruses spread so quickly these days, most people are not following the basic information presented in this book. Unless you're a full-scale computer geek, you'll probably learn something regardless of your age. For me, the chapter on routers and firewalls was perfect. I just recently bought a router for my cable internet connection, and now I know how the internals work. Very nice stuff.

Conclusion
If you're the parent of teens who are "computer active", you owe it to yourself and them to get this book. And while you're at it, you might want to read it yourself. I guarantee you'll learn something and suffer far fewer virus attacks if you do. ... Read more

Book Description

Why Doesn't my Floppy Disk Flop? And Other Kids' Computer Questions Answered by the Compududes.

For the best answers, coolest Web sites, and excellent cyber-activities, pick up Why Doesn't My Floppy Disk Flop? This lively, informative guide provides the answers to dozens of questions that you (and your parents!) really want to know. Combining their popular brand of humor with cartoon illustrations, sidebars, and tons of advice, the Compududes make all the learning seem like play. From the ins and outs of hardware and software to the best ways to take advantage of the Internet to the exciting future of computing, the answers and explanations in Why Doesn't My Floppy Disk Flop? are guaranteed to plug you in, log you on, and turn you into a computer whiz in no time! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

From Children's Literature Review
Using a question-and-answer format with mundane cartoon illustrations, the authors deal with typical questions young readers ask about hardware, software, the Internet, computer manners, and the "hard to predict" future of computers. Aside from a few geeky projects (a CD-ROM mobile), the book has things fun to know, such as a list of emoticons, many interesting websites arranged by topic to try, and a helpful glossary for those who have trouble separating an FAQ from a CPU. Some answers are pretty technical for younger readers but this is the kind of book you read in rather than through, and computer users from the most naive to the above-average in skills will find something of use here.

Reviewed by Susan Hepler. Copyright @ 2000 Children's Literature. All Rights Reserved.

More reviews from Publishers Weekly, San Diego, etc.
Publishers Weekly:

May 24, 1999

The anchors of the CompuDudes NPR radio show answer kids' computer questions in Why Doesn't My Floppy Disk Flop? by Peter Cook and Scott Manning, illus. by Ed Murrow. From definitions of words such as "bug" and "hyperlink" to tips about how to get peanut butter off a keyboard, the book provides comprehensible and useful answers to a wide range of queries.

From The Union-Tribune - (San Diego, CA):

May 11, 1999

by Suzanne A. Smith

Why Doesn't My Floppy Disk Flop? is an excellent first book about computers for children ages 8 and up. The authors, Cook and Manning, are better known as the "CompuDudes," hosts of a popular computing show for kids on National Public Radio. This book is a compilation of the most frequently asked questions they have received on the show.

Cook and Manning answer questions, from the simple ("what is my computer doing when I first turn it on?") to the more complicated ("what is a cable modem?"), to the humorous ("why don't they make computers in colors?"). The answers to these questions are technically accurate and written in a casual, patient style that is easy for kids to read.

The book also includes some fun, computer-related activities, such as making a CD-ROM mobile, writing a simple program in BASIC, and helping Mom and Dad plan the family summer vacation using the Internet.

A useful chapter at the end of the book is titled, "Good Computer Habits." Here, kids learn how to considerately share a computer with others, back up the hard drive, safely participate in chat rooms, and even how to clean the computer monitor.

This book is good for young children who have expressed an interest in learning more about computers. Mom and Dad may even learn a few things as well.

Forecast - (Bridgewater, NJ):

May 1999

Discusses the history of computers and explains their various parts and uses, hardware, software, the Internet, good computer etiquette, and their future, and includes sidebars which answer questions that were asked on the author's radio show. Original. Grades 3-4.

Here's a review from the St. Paul Pioneer Press Newspaper
From the St. Paul (Minnesota) Pioneer Press newspaper:

Monday, April 12, 1999

JEFFREY C. KUMMER STAFF WRITER

"......For a fun guide to computers in general, try, ``Why Doesn't My Floppy Disk Flop: and Other Kids' Computer Questions,'' by Peter Cook and Scott Manning, John Wiley & Sons. Besides being a handy reference for the kinds of computer questions that baffle kids (and adults, too), the book is packed with activities to help children learn more about computers."

Here's a review from MetroKids Newspaper, Philadelphia, Pa.
From MetroKids - Philadelphia, Pa.

June 1999

By Frank Lipsius

"Peter Cook and Scott Manning's Why Doesn't My Floppy Disk Flop? (Wiley, $12.95) shows why the books for kids may be the place to start, even for adults. With simple, straightforward language, the authors go through the basics of PC's (not Mac's) that most kids might know, but they have added information useful even to experienced computer users. For instance, one way to increase the storage area of your hard drive is to decrease the space set aside for the recycle bin. (Right click on the bin, go to "Properties" to find the sliding scale dedicated to the "Recycle Bin." This of course comes after the reminder to empty the bin on a regular basis.)

Sophisticated Enough

While going through the basics of using the computer, the authors suggest good habits while imparting information on BIOS, RAM, ROM and other aspects of computing that separate the informed from the novice. In a field where kids tend to know more than their parents, this friendly guide matches the kids' sophistication while covering all the bases. The book owes much to the authors' decade-long dialogue with kids as the CompuDudes on Kathy O'Connell's Kid's Corner nightly radio show on WXPN (88.5 FM). Columnists for MetroKids during formative stages, Cook and Manning prove that success is a tribute to diligence, foresight and a great sense of humor. Keep it up, dudes."

Here's a review from PBS Online
From PBS Online:

Why Doesn't My Floppy Disk Flop: And Other Kids' Computer Questions Answered by the CompuDudes by CompuDudes: Peter Cook, Scott Manning

Finally, a book that answers all of the questions you and your students have about computers and the Internet! The CompuDudes are well versed in this area since they've had a radio show to help kids with computers since 1989. Now, they take their humor and know-how to the pages of this useful guide. The CompuDudes have truly mastered the art of forming simple, fun and easy to understand explanations for everything from floppy disks to zip drives. ... Read more

Book Description

The school computer is going berserk, and Ms. Frizzle invites the kids to take a high-tech ride to check it out -- and learn some cool computer facts along the way. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The Magic School bus Gets Programmed--a book about computers
The magic school bus always teaches you lessons while making it exciting and quite zany. In this particular story, they are teaching you how to use computers, how computers work, and also why they are good to know about. The students in Ms. Frizzle's class go on another fieldtrip, this time into a computer. The class wants to find an easy way to do all of their jobs before school starts, so they use the help of a super computer and carlos' brother, Mikey-a very computer savvy person. When they start to program the computer to do their jobs for them, they are in for a surprise. Ms. Frizzle decides the best way for them to learn about the computer I s to actually go inside of the computer. They are then taken on a wild ride in the mind of a super computer. This book teaches about computers, and a good way to learn the hands on way. The book, for younger kids, might be boring because of its length and storyline, but I think it's a good book for children who want to learn about computers. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Jobs rocks the party that rocks the body
First of all... I am not an impartial judge of this book sice Jobs is my idle. I think book represents his life with Apple as well as personally fairly well. For cultist Apple fans like myself there weren't too many surprises. Overall a great read.
Also, I have been up for about three days now so I don't even know if I am coherent at this point. ... Read more

Book Description

Examines not only the developments that have brought us such conveniences of the information age as e-mail, cell-phones, and palm-top computers, but also offers valuable insight into a future brimming with amazing possibilities.The full spectrum of communications technology is covered, from Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics to the invention of the printing press, and the origins of today's Internet. Full-color spreads packed with informative captions, look at the past, present, and future of information systems in a variety of fields, including computers, entertainment, education, space, and personal communications.Communications is an ideal gift and a must-have resource for anyone who is curious about the Information Age.Illustrated timelines include major technological milestones and anticipated advances. Comprehensive glossary and index. "Crystal Ball" boxes feature predictions and highlight breakthroughs. "Blurred Vision" graphics show how people in the past envisioned the future. Related resources and websites. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Gettign kids started on computers
This is a good start for small children, allowing them to have something to show for their efforts. It also means that they will have to do some work off of the computer, giving parents a way to get their children away from the machine. Great arts and crafts! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Bill Gates-Interesting
I first bought this book for a book report. I thaught since i love computers, i should write one on bill gates. I thaught that the author did a good job on this book. I liked this book alot. Very Interesting! ... Read more

Book Description

Features such jobs as software engineer, systems analyst, network administrator, and sales and marketing executive. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

good for girls and women
I bought this book after hearing Ceel Pasternak and Linda Thornburg speak at a chapter meeting of the Association for Women in Computing. They've put a lot of thought into creating a series of books that will be interesting to junior high school aged girls and introduce them to role models in a variety of feilds, particularly the "non-traditional" ones.

Each chapter of the book is about a different woman who speaks about what her job title is, what that means, and what a day for her might entail. It also talks about what the woman liked to do as a child, the people who encouraged her, what her interests were then and now, and how she got to this point in her career and life. So, you're not just reading about a job, you're reading about a person, and what it's like to be an adult who works in this field. I think it's a good book, because reading it ought to dispell the idea that many young girls seem to have that even if they like their computer at home, they wouldn't want a computing job, because they'd be stuck behind the computer all day and never interacting with anyone else.

It's an easy read, and I don't think it talks down to the audience. I enjoyed reading it myself.

Good Reading For Every Career-Minded Woman!
The growth experienced in the computer industry has given many women the opportunity to advance themselves into job markets once predominantly held by men. The times have changed. Many women have earned their wings so-to-speak and are climbing the corporate ladders of many well-known companies and some have even started their own!

Cool Careers for Girls in Computers written by Ceel Pasternak & Linda Thornburg offers the inside scoop on how ten women have advanced from their earliest days of childhood through to their present occupations. Readers will learn of the obstacles and challenges in life these women faced as they achieved the skills and employment opportunities they either sought after or were presented with.

Readers will be intrigued by the series of events that took place in the lives of these women as their careers progressed. The contributions of families, other loved ones, role models, hobbies, personal interests, social activities, job fairs, high school and college education, marriage, employment history, and keeping up with technological advances are some of the factors that helped to shape their lives.

Readers are encouraged to learn how these women achieved their own successes. Learn what motivated them to succeed. Learn about the variety of computer industry jobs they hold. Any woman who applies herself to a solid education and a determined work ethic can achieve similar success. This book will serve as an inspiring guide for any woman searching for guidance and encouragement to succeed in the computer industry.

As the life stories of the women featured in this book are unfolded, readers may come to realize that their own lives are not much different. Readers will learn from these women what it takes to get ahead in life and in their careers. Resources provided at the back of the book provides readers with some additional assistance for personal growth and professional development. Good reading for every career-minded woman! ... Read more

Book Description

Two Great Ways to Learn!

Double the fun and learning using the latest interactive technology and traditional storybook.The CD-ROM and the book contain the same two entertaining stories.Both stories include repeated and rhyming words plus illustrations with lots of picture clues to ensure reading success for beginners.

Minimum System Requirements

Windows- Microsoft Windows 98, or 95.
16 MB RAM 640x480x256 Color Video
8-Bit Sound Card
486-66 MHz or faster processor
40 MB free disk space
2x CD-ROM drive

Windows- Microsoft Windows 3.1.
8 MB RAM
640x480x256 Color Video
8-Bit Sound Card
486-33 MHz or faster processor
32 MB free disk space
2x CD-ROM drive

Mac OS- Mac OS System 7.1 or higher.
16 MB RAM
640x480x256 Color Video
8-Bit Sound Card
68040 or faster processor
32 MB free disk space
2x CD-ROM drive
... Read more

Book Description

Doubled the fun and the learning using the latest interactive technology and traditional storybook.The CD and the book contain the same two entertaining stories.Both stories include repeated and rhyming words plus illustrations with lots of picture clues to ensure reading success for beginners. ... Read more