The silicon jungle. (book reviews) Russ Lockwood.

The premise of The Silicon Jungle is to provide advice to would-be microcomputer buyers. Rothman does a fine job treading that well-worn path, and if that were the only aspect of the book, we'd say "nice try, but nothing special."

However, packed around practical information is a cornucopia of microcomputer history, folklore, and reminiscences worthy of Trivial Pursuit. With vigor and freshness, Rothman punctuates each aspect of buying a computer system with several anecdotes--all designed to prove a particular point. Some examples include finding GOD on MCI Mail, Raquel Welsh and ergonomics, and Arthur C. Clarke and telecommunications.

If you already own a computer system, the Silicon Jungle is probably not for you. However, if you are in the market for a system, take a look at Rothman's book. At $3.95, it will set you back only a fraction of the cost of a specialty book.

Review Grade: B