This is a sort of how-to-bluff-your-way-into-computers. The publisher claims this book plugs a gap in catering for people who have no knowledge of computing but want to learn in a practical, jargon-free way.

It achieves its aims. It is short, yet meaty enough. It tells only the bare minimum about the Genie, but after reading this book a complete novice should know enough to read computer magazines or more advanced books with understanding.

In particular, they will have a good basis for comparing the Genie to other machines. Gower has a series of similar books for most current machines, so comparison is easy. And though the style is a little dry, it is lucid.

At £4.95 it may be a fraction pricey, but a good book for reference.