Guest Author - Theresa Wilson

In spite of the title, this book makes learning fun. Ms. McDonnell begins her introduction to the world-wide web by providing a timeline journey of a typical day in the life of an internet user. Ezine newsletter editors, e-commerce business owners, work at home moms, and entrepreneurs can relate to Ms. McDonnell’s detailed analysis of a typical day for the internet user, which begins with breakfast, reading the newspaper on line, and catching up on emails before ordering business supplies.

“Everyday is a casual day,” for the home based entrepreneur because the office is the next level down from the kitchen. They can catch up on the news without turning on the television or buying a newspaper. How? Just turn on the computer and read a “free copy” on the web. The schedule daily continues with answering emails, sending group updates, or checking reminders on file. My favorite example is remembering a friend’s birthday or congratulating him for just landing a job. With the click of the mouse, you can send an electronic greeting card—saving time, money, and postage while still making someone happy.

Chapter I begins with an historical overview of the history of the internet that reads like “did you know?” Before you yawn, this chapter offers a variety of eye catching sub headings that entice you to browse. Even the most “savvy” internet user will discover some tidbits of information they didn’t know. For example, did you know that the internet began as a project of the U.S. Department of Defense?

As Ms. McDonnell so eloquently stated “the internet suddenly brings the world into your living room, office, or bedroom.” Before you know it, you are into some serious reading including how to select an Internet Service Provider (including listing of provider names for comparison), where to get software to connect to the internet, how to get a browser, how to download a browser, “cool places to find free stuff.

If that’s not enough, there’s ample opportunity to expand your “web vocabulary.” Ms. McDonnell provides easy to understand explanations of terms like:

Hypertext--“the name for the systems of linked pages that make up the web; configuration-- adjusting software settings);

HTML--a code used to create Web pages; and

HTTP--a set of rules that enables you to move pages written in HTML between different computers).

You will also appreciate her tips and strategies for protecting your children and encourage safe surfing while on the web. If you need a good resource that is easy to read and doesn't get bogged down in complicated details, The Everything Internet Book by Sharon McDonnellis the book for you.