Communicating on the Internet

School Library Journal

Gr 4-8-This book teaches how to communicate effectively and appropriately via the Internet. Wolinsky covers basic "Netiquette," including flames, smilies, and shouting. He also looks at some of the downsides of e-mail such as spams, hoaxes, chain letters, and urban legends. In addition to basic e-mail messages, the author covers listservs, newsgroups, and chats. While it helps to have sent an e-mail message at least once, even novice users will be able to understand the suggested guidelines. Since the book also discusses newer communication techniques like voice chat, videoconferencing, and whiteboards, it will appeal to more seasoned users as well. The writing is clear and sprinkled with amusing e-mail anecdotes. Wolinsky is careful to include safety messages throughout, urging children not to divulge personal information or to chat with strangers. Small black-and-white cartoons featuring "Web," an animated monitor, appear on almost every page. In an age when the basics of letter writing have gone down the drain, this is a necessary addition to any Internet book collection.-Yapha Nussbaum Mason, Brentwood Lower School, Los Angeles Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|