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The big break came in 1984 when he began writing about computers. Applying his flair for fiction with a self-taught knowledge of computers, Gookin was able to demystify the subject and explain technology in a relaxed and understandable voice. He even dared to add humor, which eventually won him a column in a local computer magazine.
Eventually, Gookin's talents came to roost as he became a ghostwriter at a computer book publishing house. That was followed by an editing position at a San Diego computer magazine, at which time he also regularly participated in a radio talk show about computers. In addition, Gookin kept writing books about computers, some of which became minor best-sellers.
In 1990, Gookin came to IDG Books Worldwide, Inc., with a book proposal. From that initial meeting unfolded an idea for an outrageous book: a long overdue and original idea for the computer book for the rest of us. What became DOS For Dummies® blossomed into an international bestseller with hundreds and thousands of copies in print and many foreign translations.
Today, Gookin still considers himself a writer and computer "guru" whose job it is to remind everyone that computers are not to be taken too seriously. His approach to computers is light and humorous yet very informative. He knows that the complex beasts are important and can help people become productive and successful. Yet Gookin mixes his knowledge of computers with a unique, dry sense of humor that keeps everyone informed -- and awake. His favorite quote is, "Computers are a notoriously dull subject, but that doesn't mean I have to write about them that way."
Gookin's titles for IDG Books include: DOS For Dummies®, Windows® 95 Edition; PCs For Dummies®, 6th Edition; and Discovering Windows® 95. Gookin holds a degree in Communications from the University of California, San Diego, and lives with his wife and four boys in the rare and gentle woods of Idaho.;
Sandra Hardin Gookin has an amazing ability to make difficult tasks easy to understand. This comes, in part, from her speech communications degree from Oklahoma State University, but mainly from having to communicate with her five boys (four children + one husband, Dan). Sandra works with Dan to make computer terms easy for you to understand. If she can understand them, you will, too. Sandra's other books include Parenting For Dummies® and Discover Windows® 95.
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Great Book!,
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This review is from: Discover Windows® 95 (Paperback)
Dan Gookin teaches in a non-threatening manner, and keeps up good humor in the meantime. It makes the learning process fun, as well as simple. I especially like the way he throws in personal comments, as it saves me trial and error to learn the same outcome. This is definately an asset not found with other computer-book authors. It is evident that he uses computers, not just teaches them. Great book, easy to read, easy to use, and well worth the minimal investment.
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