This introductory textbook for classroom use contains four sections, each divided into chapters: “Overview” (“Getting Started,” “Personal Computer Applications,” “Computers, Society, and Ethics,” and “Computers at Work”); “Hardware” (“Input,” “Output,” “Processors and Memories,” “Mass Storage,” and “Communications”); “Information Systems” (“Management Information Systems,” “Database Management Systems,” and “Artificial Intelligence and Expert Systems”); and “Developing Applications” (“Systems Analysis and Design,” “Programming,” and “End-User Development”). Each chapter ends with a list of references and resources (including videos), practice questions, and some software exercises. The appendices contain a history of computers; a shopping guide; numerical systems, data representation, and codes; and a glossary. A detailed index is provided.

The book is most successful as an introduction to computer concepts and potential applications. It does not teach specific systems or software. Its best use would be as a supplemental book of readings rather than a primary text. The physical presentation is good, with photos, charts, and headings designed to hold the reader’s interest. Boldface or italic type is used for key concepts. As separate supplements to the book, the publisher offers an instructor’s manual, a test bank, a BASIC supplement, MS-DOS files for the software exercises, and several popular computer applications tools. These supplements are mentioned in the text, but I have not seen them. This book is revised yearly.

My overall impression of the book is favorable. It would be appropriate for advanced high school students or a first-year college course.