The Internet is jam packed with information, yet there are times when I sit in front of the computer and wonder what I should be doing with so much material. Just what should I look up now? If this question has ever occurred to you, then you might want to get a simple book that lists interesting Internet subjects like Joe Kraynak’s Best of the Internet.
I’ve looked at Internet directory books before and found them usually expensive, expansive, and overwhelming. Best of the Internet is a $9.95 hand-sized 5 ½ x 8” book with a little over 400 easy-to-navigate pages. The Web sites are categorized and listed in alphabetical order with some attaining the extra designation of “Best”. Categories are well-chosen and include everything from candy to vitamin supplements, food to weight loss, and bowling to water sports. For the most part, this book gives only a few Web sites in each area. For instance, bowling has only four sites listed. If, however, you go to any of those four, you will find links to other related sites and have a good start on researching the subject. I think this book is geared toward giving you ideas of what you can research. For instance, you may frequently visit sites that are health or hobby related, but did you ever think of looking up zoos, sign language, dinosaurs, or yoga?
Joe Kraynak is a prolific author of computer books. His experience is evident in the concise summaries of each site. His choice of categories is excellent and covers a wide range of interests. Although I found the section on computers quite lacking, most other categories like “Seniors”, “Publications”, “Politics”, “Travel”, and “Governmental” were very substantive. The alphabetically tabbed pages and a comprehensive cross-referenced index add to the usefulness of the book making finding things within the book quite easy.
This is a good compilation of Web sites that can help you make the most of your Web surfing. Yet, no matter how hard the author tries to choose Web sites with staying power, the fast-paced Internet world can quickly date a book like this. With Best of the Internet 2004 hot off the presses (July 2003), now is the time to buy.
