Customer Reviews

Is This Thing On?: A Late Bloomer's Computer Handbook

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I loved this book! It's not exactly one that I picked up because I needed to learn about computer basics, going digital, and playing/working on the Internet. But I thought it was well written, well outlined, and definitely on target for people over age 50 who are hands-off when it comes to personal computers. The book claims to have 25 chapters in 378 pages. However, I view it more like nine chapters with 25 sub-chapters interspersed therein as follows:

1. There is nothing to fear but technology itself (1-3)
2. Where will it sleep and how often do I neeed to water it? (4-5)
3. Go for a test drive (6-8)
4. Let the shopping begin (9)
5. Baby's first day home (10-12)
6. The newlywed game (13-15
7. Welcome to the neighborhood (16-20)
8. Exploration and discovery (21-23)
9. Make new friends and keep old (24-25)

About 10 years ago I took it upon myself to teach my mother how to use a PC. She was a high school librarian at the time, and it was a natural thing for her to learn in order to help her with her work. The lessons taught in this wonderful book are the same ones I went through with my mom ten years ago. And then two years later I was the lead instructor in teaching my grandmother (my mom's mom) how to use a PC to surf the Net, and most importantly get/send emails to/from my mom and my cousins. My mom was the teaching assistant who helped my grandmother pick up on computers. And the two of us used the same lessons taught in this book to teach my grandmother.

In this book you will learn (if you want to) how to: (1) shop for a PC, (2) set up your PC when you get it home, (3) sign up for Internet access, (4) use your PC and the Internet, (5) use a printer with your PC, (6) use email, (7) surf the Internet like a Pro, and much more.

The author has been teaching what she has included in this book for the past 10 years. And it is the same approach she used to teach her mother how to become computer literate. As far as I know, the system described in this book has been successful when applied to at least three seniors. And I know of no failures. If you are a senior and you have a desire to learn about computers and the Internet, then I highly recommend you get a copy of this book. 5 stars!

Full disclosure: Abby is my sister and I have been using her books in my computer classes since 2001 - I teach at a regional senior center and adult education through the local high school. Over a thousand students have been taught using her books as a teaching guide and the feedback has been fantastic - no kicking and screaming when they are done and many continue on to e-mail, internet, word processing, spreadsheets, digital photography, and more! The students' only request after using the "It's Never Too Late To Love A Computer" book was, "when is she going to expand it?" Well, Abby has made a really good book even better! "Is This Thing On?" has more detail, more topics, newer screen shots, and, as always, is written in "Abby's language" - no geek speak. It has been a winner for even the toughest of my students and many students request one as a gift for their friends. Kudos, Abby - thanks for making the cyber leap easier for seniors and other newbies on the CT shoreline!

This book hits the nail on the head for people who are new to computers, or would just like to have a reference book that explains it all in plain English without any geek-speak. I'm over 50, work in software support and have built & rebuilt computers for years. I also enjoy helping people with their computers and software. For years I've look at these self-help books, but until now, have never found one that has the best combination of plain English explanations and references, clear illustrations and a layout that is very easy on the eyes. Whether you are scared to death of computers, or love them way too much (as I do), I would highly recommend this book.

Remember when you first began using a computer? Those balky moments of exploration, the repeated steps and frustration that culminated in your calling a friend to explain where you were, how you got there and what you needed to do to get out?
Over time, we learn to unconsciously accommodate the quirks of our software and applications, but the process isn't as intuitive as it might be -- there's a lot of adaptive learning along the way. How do those grade school kids pick it up so quickly?
They collaborate with a knowing and patient friend along the way, and that's precisely the role Abby plays in "Is This Thing On?". Her approach works: Abby starts at the beginning, speaks in conversational English, and is gentle and funny and encouraging as she expands the basis of why someone would be compelled to use a computer in the first place.
My hope is that those who would most benefit from this book (including those who have yet to buy a computer -- Abby has plenty of sage advice on this topic, as well) have a caring mentor like Abby on hand to steer them to it. I can think of several folks in my circle who deserve a copy of their own.
A large audience with an unmet need, a sound concept and a very successful execution = a timely and essential book.

A friend of mine got this book for Christmas and I scoffed - what could I possibly learn about computers? Ever since I dip into this treasure trove every time I am over at his house and always learn something. So finally I got my own copy. Excellent explanations, great visuals and a sense of humor teach you how get the maximum usage out of your best "non-human" friend. Hats off to Ms Stokes wherever she may be.

My first thought was, :Why do I need to read this book? I've used computers for years." Well, we all can learn a new shortcut, something we thought we knew & didn't, or a different way of doing. Two big things stand out--I really like the way the author sets chapters & methods up & do find I end up teaching someone else occasionally who's a little fearful of using a computer. Since using this book, it's been easier to help someone else.

I love this book! I teach a class for adults who wish to learn about computers and new technology! Most of them have ordered this book and love it! Thanks for putting it into a language that is understood by my 'kids'!

This book explains the essentials of the computer and the internet. It's written in a clear, easy-to-read, personal, fun style, so not only is it practical it's an enjoyable read -- and I never thought I would say that about a computer book. For anyone who wants to get-up-and-running, or become more competent, on a computer, this is a great book.

After moving halfway across the country, I was worried about staying in touch with my family - especially my mom. Abby's first book helped my mom to get over her fears with "the machine" and she began emailing. The second book has helped my mother expand her computer skills and venture further into the "scary techno world." She is now on Facebook and Twitter!!!! Not bad for a fifty-something woman who always says "I flunked typing in high school!" She has now bought books for her siblings to help them join the cyber world. Thanks for helping this family stay connected, Abby!

After FINALLY convincing our 82-year old Mother that she would really enjoy having a computer, she gave in and agreed to "TRY IT"!! After spending many hours showing and telling her where to go... and how to get there... I turned to my favorite website (Amazon.com) for some written, step-by-step instructions for her. THIS BOOK IS IT!! It is easy to understand, with clear and consice step-by-step instructions that are very easy to follow. This book is a must-have for all novice "mature" computer users!