What Is a Computer?

Library Journal

Gr 2-4-Two very basic introductions. Computers and Schools covers word processing, networks, e-mail, the Internet, desktop publishing, and other applications. What Is a Computer? presents a general overview of how the machines operate, various hardware and software components, and the history and future of computer technology. In both books, the small amount of information-one to two paragraphs per topic-imposes some limitations on coverage, and Drake glosses over some material, especially the more abstract terms and concepts. For example, in the second book, he fails to define the term "CPU," which appears as a label in a photograph of the parts of a computer. Instead, "CPU," "memory," and "sound card" are collectively referred to as "Processing" with the explanation that "Processing arranges codes in a way that the computer can understand." Nevertheless, the books are generally well written and present concepts with clarity. Large, bright color photographs with bolded captions enhance the large-print, easy-to-read texts. These two offerings compare favorably with the "True Book" titles (Children's) about computers.-Paul Kelsey, East Baton Rouge Parish Public Library, LA Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.