David Pogue
Mac OS X: The Missing Manual ranks among the best books to have at your side as you explore the latest Macintosh operating system as an everyday user who wants to get some work done, have a bit of fun, and feel part of the Mac community. David Pogue--a respected Mac authority and longtime author on the subject--is the perfect guide on such a quest, as his Mac knowledge is profound and his ability to explain facts and procedures considerable. The second edition of this popular book covers Mac OS X 10.2 and all of its many new features, including Sherlock 3, iCal, iSync, and firewalling. There's coverage of .Mac online services, as well.
Pogue writes really well, so his prose is a treat to read and most readers will appreciate his occasional page-long straight prose passages. More often, though, the wisdom in this book comes in the form of annotated procedures and bulleted lists, as well as notes and tips. There are also two highly handy "Where'd It Go?" glossaries: one for longtime Mac users (this one answers such questions as where the Apple Extras folder is) and one for Windows users (to explain, for example, the equivalent of Ctrl-Alt-Delete on the Mac). Unlike most books about Mac OS X, this one explores its UNIX-like underpinnings (the Apple implementation is called Darwin) pretty thoroughly. However, based on the logic that if you wanted to use UNIX, you would, Pogue emphasizes the traditional, graphical Mac interface over the Terminal window. If you want an in-depth treatment of Darwin and know something about UNIX already, have a look at Mac OS X for Unix Geeks. --David Wall
Topics covered: How to use Mac OS X 10.2 and its immediate predecessors. This is a user-level book, concerned with managing files, folders, media, users, and hardware. Lots of attention goes to the operating system's special features, including the "i" series of applications and the .Mac online services.
1 Pogue's in vogue but aint informed
I bought this book to help me switch from Winduhs. It's a lotta words and I later read in his New York Times column that he "types" by dictation into .. I think Dragon Naturally Speaking on a Winduhs based machine (uh hu). The book's contents could have been cut down to less than a hundred pages-- but these books are sold by the kilo anyway. He didn't really know the OS he just banged out a quick book to earn a yep a quick buck. I read his "consumer" columns in the NYtimes and find them useful but this book wasn't. Oh yeah and the switch ...... to Mac .... over rated but OK.
2 Great book for mac owners...
I switched to Mac OS X from windows and this book was the only reason I stayed! It helped me get a grasp of Mac OS X quickly. It even gives you great tips that will increase your productivity. I used a coupon from UnderTag.com, so it was almost free for me too.
3 THE Manual for OS X
I'm a long, long time user of Macintosh computers that finally migrated from OS 9 to OS X (10.2.6) about a year ago. A great OS, stable, feature-filled, and visually attractive but oh so different from the old Mac operating systems! This manual has paid for itself many times over in the last year that I've used it. It's sheer size is daunting but Pogue writes so clearly and the book is so well organized that it is a great resource for both beginners and experienced users. I tried the more basic guides first but they seemed "too cute" or too abbreviated for my taste. I recommend this manual without reservation.
4 New Mac Convert Finds Most Of My Questions Answered Here
As a new mac convert who switched from the pc, the mac OS is a totally different environment. I ordered 7 mac books before my new iMac arrived and this is the one along with"Teach Yourself Visually Mac Os Xv.10.3 Panther" that I am able to obtain the most helpful info and answers to my questions from.I am very pleased with both of these books for their thoroughness and ease of use. A mac newbie won't go wrong with both of them(which I recommend),and you will find yourself referring back to them over and over so I suggest you keep them in the vicinity of your computer area!
5 Sick of "Help FIles"? Yes you are.
Apple simply doesn't include a manual with their computers. The whole "Help" thing is better than it used to be, but it is still a JOKE if you need real help with something complicated. David Pogue is not exaggerating with his title. You need this book, especially now that OS ten has landed, and taken over. Just get this book when you get your new apple and get it over with, you will save yourself a world of grief. Just do it!
6 Mac OS X: The Missing Manual
Mac OS X: The Missing Manual
by David Pogue
I expected this book to target the end-user and in that respect it met my expectations. I was pleasantly surprised when the author would throw in some of the under-the-hood details. Those little details hint at the power of the BSD-based underpinnings of Mac OS X.
The Missing Manual is exactly what it claims to be: the manual that should have been included with a Mac running Mac OS X. It is filled with a ton of good info ranging from very basic to fairly in-depth. The material is well-organized and thoughtfully laid out, making it easy to find what you're looking for.
My biggest gripe with the book is the interjection of Pogue's opinions. I expected some of the elitest Mac attitude, but some of the things Pogue mentions are pure speculation on his part. Very early in the book, he states Apple's motivation for doing things a certain way when I seriously doubt he has any better insight into Apple's reasons than many other Mac fans. On top of that, he goes on to contradict himself later.
This is a great book if you're relatively new to Mac OS X. If you have some experience with this OS, you'll probably want to skip the first part of the book. The first few chapters are very basic and seem to hold more of Pogue's ramblings than the rest of the book.
7 A switcher says: "Get this Book!"
As a recent Win-to-Mac (Panther) switcher, this book has been invaluable to me. Even with the easy Mac GUI and almost 20 years of power-user experience in the PC world I found this book to be a great reference for my learning curve. My new G4-12in. Powerbook rocks.
8 Now Outdated!!
If you have or plan to soon upgrade to OS 10.3 (Panther) you shouldn't get this edition of the book. Wait for his updated Panther Edition to be released in December, 2003.
9 Wading thru the propaganda can be exhausting
I have owned and used every Macintosh operating system from System 1.0 to OS 9 and I considered myself a power user. But OS X is a giant step from its predecessors, and, like nearly everybody, I found it more of a challenge then I could handle without help.
Most new OS X users consider "Mac OS X: The Missing Manual," to be a god-send. So, I bought the Second Edition of it nine months ago (January '03). While it has empowered me to gain a feable hand-hold on OSX, it hasn't helped me to gain much more then that.
The multitude of errors in the book is problematic. But that isn't the main problem (since an errata list is available at http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/macosxmm2/errata/ if not at http://www.missingmanuals.com/).
Usually, I read a book like this cover-to-cover. But not this one. It is so packed with superfluous pro-OS X propaganda, that I usually find myself distracted and losing interest long before I can root-out the heart of an issue.
Most of the info seems to be there, but schlogging thru the hip-deep hyp to find the essence of what you need is a real party-killer. It forces you to crawl when you could be running and to walk when you could be flying.
If "The Missing Manual" were half as thick, it would be twice as good, and I would have given it four stars.
10 Required reading for every Mac user
This book should be required reading for every serious Mac user.
It has tons upon tons of little known, but very helpful information.
11 useful... but possibly outdated soon?
Panther is shipping soon. With this in mind, this manual, based on Jaguar, may be slightly outdated. Not Pogue's fault, he is fantastic. But you might want to buy a manual written after 10.3 Panther comes out.
12 This book made me glad I switched from XP to OS X (Jaguar).
I bought my first Mac since the IISE this week, and I really didn't have any idea how much customization was built into OS X 10.2 (Jaguar). Furthermore, I couldn't figure out how to do some of the simple things I had done on my XP machine, and I was afraid they couldn't be done at all. This book really opened my eyes to the power and beauty of Jaguar. I'm certain I would have learned some of this experimentally, but the book sped up the process considerably. As I page through it, I try each new lesson on my new Powerbook, making it a very enjoyable read.
The Missing Manual is well-written, at times funny (without overdoing it), and very reasonably priced. Pogue's genuine admiration of OS 10.2 is infectious; it makes one proud to own a Mac. It is a must-read if you are new to Macs. If there is an update/rewrite for 10.3 (Cougar), I will almost certainly buy that as well.
Amin Sabet, M.D.
13 David Pogue knows Macs!
This book really helped me get up to speed on Macs and OSX. I was new to Macs and really in the dark about what to do with 'em! But, the book, written in a very breezy yet knowledgable format cured that problem. There's good background info, too. It's not simply about trouble shooting, but actually teaching you how to do it. I highly recommend this book and all of David Pogue's work!
14 Easy to understand!!
I just bought an iMac OS 10.2.3 after having a PowerMac OS 8.6. Obviously, I have some catching up to do and this book is really terrific in helping me when I need it.
For every problem or question I've had, I was able to get an answer. I ran into an error message from my printer that came out of the blue, and using the index for "error messages," I followed directions and it cleared the problem up!
Well worth the money.
15 Buy this if you use OS X
David Pogue is probably the most lucid, entertaining and knowledgeable Mac-related writer on the planet today.
His genuine enthusiasm for, and wisdom about the subject are tempered perfectly by both humour and pragmatism.
This book is a superb combination of:
a 'dummy's' guide that doesn't treat the reader like a dummy;
an expert guide that doesn't bamboozle the non-expert;
a trouble-shooting guide for those who dive in 'head first'; and,
a superb reference volume for anyone who uses this operating system.
If Apple had no other advantage over Microsoft than David Pogue they would still be miles ahead.
16 It's Just Right!
David's book is easy to follow and thorough. Switching to OSX from Microsoft Windows, an older version of MacOS, UNIX, or LINUX involves learning some new things. First time computer owners need skills and information as well. This title fits the bill as the definitive operating system book authority. I am an experienced user and found many useful pieces of information. The writing style is such that even a person new to computers will be able to follow along and learn a lot in short order, yet experienced Information Technology specialists will also find the book helpful. This book a great title to keep as reference.
...
17 Lots of errors
I recently started using Mac OS X after winning a free Macintosh. I was not impressed at all, and the learning curve was really steep, so I bought David Pogue's book. However, as I followed the sections step by step, I found there were a number of errors. As a "missing manual," this is not acceptable. Back it goes.
18 Excellent work on OS X Jaguar
Great book for reading through the chapters or to just pick it up to solve a certain issue. I was an old pro with Mac OS 8/9, but new to OS X -- this is essential to pick up on the differences in OS X in quick fashion.
19 The best of the best
David Pogue for god! I've been using his manuals since the first Mac for Dummies, upgrading every time I upgraded my computer.
He's saved me thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours of grief. A gifted writer, who knows his stuff and has a great sense of humor. This series is equally valuable for the novice and for the expert. I've recommended it to everyone I know who has a Mac.
You really can't do better.
20 Essential
IMHO, this book is a must-have for all Mac users running OS 10.2 The new Mac's are wonderful machines but they aren't perfect. On several occasions this book has helped me out of confusing situations with my new Mac.
As I think another reviewer has noted, while you certainly can read this book cover to cover, you will likely find it more valuable as a reference, one to keep handy at your computer desk. You'll be a long time exhausting it's information. There's hardly a thing concerning 10.2 that's not covered here. In fact, the extensive detail (explaining every option available for just about every function) can get a bit confusing for newbies to the new Macs. For first-timers, like myself, I would also recomment Pogue's own "Switching to the Mac," or "Teach Yourself Visually: Mac OS X." The latter is particularly good as a bare-bones, get you up and running introduction to OS 10.2 and I highly recommend it as well.
"Mac OS X: the Missing Manual" more than pays for itself over time. No Mac user should be without it.
21 This book is the perfect companion to your Macintosh.
Having switched to the superior Macintosh platform a few years ago I was left wondering exactly how to do things. The Macintosh is painfully easy to use but there are times when you need help "thinking differently". As a long time Windows user I had to "re-learn" a few things in order to achieve the objective of a fluid computer-user dynamic. Because of the Macintosh, and this book, using computers is fun again!
This book is simultaneously educational and enjoyable! Imagine that, a *computer book* being enjoyable! This is not your father's Fortran/Cobol, dryly written instructional book, that's for sure.
David Pogue's writing style is both thorough and concise. He writes with a wry and immediately likable levity that simply makes you enjoy reading about Mac OS X. His writing for NYTimes.com, O'Reilly & Associates and various "For Dummies" books has undoubtedly helped hone his technique.
If you're a person switching to Mac OS X from Mac OS 9 you'll find the "Where'd It Go" section immensely helpful. It details the differences between OS 9 and OS X and how to find that certain program or preference you used before. It also has a "Where'd It Go" for Windows users, which shows how to do things "the Mac way" and help ease the migration from Windows to Mac OS X.
Even if you're completely new to computers, this book will undoubtedly alleviate your fears and help you get to working with Macs in a very fast manner. It's a great "In A Nutshell" type book, but unlike some of those books it bridges the gap between complete novice and intermediate user needs.
If you're looking for an advanced/expert book or one covering unix then you'd probably want to look at O'Reilly's "Learning Unix For Mac OS X" or "Mac OS X In A Nutshell". Even though this book is written for novices and intermediate users, it covers some unix/terminal commands. It also covers how to use the web, FTP, SSH/Telnet, VPN, Firewall, networking, burning CD's and DVD's, making mp3's and playing them and so on. But it does so in an easy to understand fashion. The nice thing about this book, besides how easy it is to read and all the things it will help you do, is that it can be read from front to back or can be read by skipping around at your whim.
Once you read this book you'll be able to do nearly anything on your Macintosh. And that's what its all about.
Pros:
1) very intelligently written
2) thorough, without being boring
3) concise and to the point
4) lots of "how to's" with actual screenshots from Mac OS X
5) covers all aspects of using a Macintosh
6) very current (covers the latest version of OS X called "Jaguar" as of 2003)
7) great index
Cons:
None
22 Windows To Mac Made Easy
I have been a long time Windows user. I also have had experience using Mac OS 8 & 9 for video productions. Recently I upgraded to Mac OS X for high-end production work and DVD creation - by reading the Second Edition of the Missing Mac OS X Manual I have found the transition from Windows XP and those older MAC OS versions seamless.
The Missing Manual explains where you will find certain things you are use too in Windows XP and MAC OS 9. It also gives you tips and tricks on installing the software and updates (including Jaguar), networking between Windows and MAC, and a ton of other stuff. The great thing is it is written for everyone - not too much jargon you can't understand.
With hardly any downtime in my transition I applaud this book.
23 top drawer
Here's your Jaguar reference manual - but take the time to read the whole book. David Pogue is that rare technical writer who has style, not heavy handed humor or thinly veiled geek-speak. I bought the first edition, upgraded to Jaguar, and felt compelled to add the 2nd edition; worth every penny.
24 This book should come with your Macintosh!
That title basically sums up how I feel about this book. When I purchased my iBook last year, it came with a 20 page (or so it seems) brochure (not a book/manual) of how the machine works and how to operate it. I was new to Mac's and the new OS X, so I felt quite lost. Thankfully, I had heard about The MIssing Manual books. Mr. Pough has a wonderful ability to get technical things written in a manner of which I could understand and apply. I have learned alot about the OS and would highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn more. He also has a great website filled with additional info not found in the book. Apple should take a lesson from Mr. Pough.
25 the only manual you will need....
This book touts itself as " the book that should have been in the box." and that is true. It is terrific; straight forward, to the point, without the stupid humor that you find in other books. As a first introduction to Mac's unix based OSX, I found it comprehensive and ended with a thorough understanding of the operating system. I bought it thinking that it would be my first OSX manual, but after reading it, I think it will be my only OS X manual.
The only drawback may be that it doesn't go into detail on the iLife apps of iphoto, imovie, idvd, but that is probably because Mr. Pogue has written separate books on these applications. I plan to purchase those books also.
26 I just hope there's a third edition for 10.3
I finally (finally) picked up Mac OS X: The Missing Manual. I've been meaning to grab it since I first heard that David Pogue wrote a book on OS X; I've been a fan of his for a while. I remember reading his stuff in Macworld - on System 7, even - when someone gave me a subscription (many) years ago, and his New York Times columns have generally been pretty good as well.
Mac OS X: The Missing Manual is exactly what you'd expect if you've read any of his other books or columns - it's clear and straightforward without seeming dumbed down. His writing tends to be fairly light and often funny, making for particularly readable technical books. That's not to say it's without substance, though - within the first chunk of this book (which is pushing six hundred pages) I'd already had a dozen of my exisiting questions answered as well as plenty I hadn't even thought to wonder about.
It seems pretty definitely directed at people who've been using Mac OS for a long time and are switching to OS X. Given what OS X is, it's not surprising that it takes some getting used to, despite vaguely looking like Mac OS. If you've never used OS 8 or 9 and don't have any existing Mac habits to unlearn, you might not even need a book like this - but I suspect it would still be pretty useful. Pogue also takes time to address issues people might have switching to OS X from Unix or Windows, but the focus is on comparisons to older versions of Mac OS. As the title implies, Apple documentation tends to be slim to non-existent, and this is by far the most thorough OS X book I've seen yet. It functions exactly as promised - I keep my copy on the shelf over my desk, and when I have a question about something I remember from OS 9 or why something I know from BSD doesn't work under 10.2, I can just look it up.
The second edition is more of the same - the book is bigger, fatter, and covers Jaguar. It was published in October 2002, so it's not quite up to the minute, but it's certainly not outdated yet. I shelled out another twenty bucks when I first saw it, and I don't regret it - the only major complaint I'd had about the first edition was that its usefulness was somewhat impaired when 10.2 came out. It's possible I'll feel the same way about the second edition when faced with 10.3 - but maybe Pogue will write another book.
I would recommend this book for just about every OS X user, regardless of how recently you switched - people who installed it back during the public beta will probably get just as much out of the second edition as those who just bought their first ever Mac. However, you'll probably find it more useful if you're coming from older versions of Mac OS than if you've just switched from another Unix or Windows, but that's not to say it isn't worth reading in those cases. It's relatively [inexpensive] for an O'Reilly book - 712 pages, list price is [$$$] - so you can't really go wrong.
27 Great book, great authors
David Pogue is a technology columnist at the New York times and he has brought together a stellar group of Mac experts to write a very useful and fun book on OS X through 10.2, I have already learned many new tips that make my Mac more fun and easy to use.
28 Very good manual
You do know that Mac OS X is Unix, right? I love telling Mac people this - so many of them still don't know.
I also love that Apple has gone in this direction. It's wonderful, because it opens up whole new worlds for Unix folk. It also helps the Linux software market and vice versa: if you write software for one, a port to the other should certainly be a lot easier than a port to Windows.
I am of course not yet experienced enough to make a complete judgement of this book's value. I do have a little Mac experience from the early 90's, but I'm more than weak there. So I really appreciated that the author expects that some of his audience will have no Mac background at all. Throughout the book, it's evident that he has that in mind, and there is even a whole appendix devoted to people switching from Windows. Well, that's not exactly my thing either, but I still found it helpful.
Of course it is difficult for someone so intimately familiar with Macs to avoid knowledge assumptions entirely. There are a few places here and there that make reference to things you just wouldn't know about if you have never seen a Mac at all. Still, I suspect that someone with even less Mac exposure than I have would not get completely confused.
The Unix related chapters are accurate and reasonable. There's not much of anything really geekish, but I really didn't expect that from this sort of book.
In general, the book is written well, with a light hearted style and enough humor to keep it from ever being dull. I suspect that this will be by my side constantly as I start exploring this wonderful new world of Apple operating systems.
29 Very worthwhile
I poured over this book for a week when I got it and I'd have to say it is in hot competition with the Ray et al. Mac OS X Unleashed book for the winner of the "must have" category. This book is probably best for the Mac OS X Aqua power user who wants to get the most out of the Aqua environment in Jaguar, including how best to run Classic apps without cramping OS X's style. You probably couldn't go past this book for its great design, excellent writing style and breadth of handy tips. If you want to go further, say: set up your computer as a mail server; learn the basics of using mySQL or get a command of the CLI, then Ray et al.'s Mac OS X Unleashed is probably more for you - but then again, you could do what I did and get them both - I'm really glad I did!
30 Great book to keep as a manual for OS X
This book is indeed the missing manual. Much different than his "dummies" books, this is a little heafter and focused more on advanced problems and activities.
Mr. Pogue does still keep to his light and easy to read writing style. This book will not be one you will necessarily read through, though you may skim each chapter for important topics, it will serve as an indespensible bookshelf companion and guide to discover many secrets and tips of OS X.
31 Shouldn't even be necessary.
When you read this book you realize why Apple doesn't include "instructions" anymore. The whole point of the Mac OS (I thought) was set it & forget it. Imagine an operating system that takes 700+ pages to explain. How much worse can Windows be?
That said, Pogue does his usual excellent job. I give this 4 stars because I downloaded one of the shareware programs he reccomends and it crashed OS X so badly I had to wipe the drive clean and start over--and yes, I'm writing this review in OS 9.1!
32 The essential manual for OS X
Even if my new iMac DID come with a manual, I'd discard it and use "Mac OS X: The Missing Manual, Second Edition" instead. Not only does David Pogue cover all the bases, he also puts the information into context as no official manual would do. For example, he says, "Few people use PlainTalk speech recognition. But if your Mac has a microphone, PlainTalk is worth at least a 15-minute test drive." And "For the movie fan, [the Movies] feature of Sherlock might be worth the entire price of Mac OS X right there."
The book revealed features I had no idea were present in OS X, and told me enough to begin using them. For example, I now write my own AppleScript programs, and can use FAXstf to send faxes.
It's incredible how up-to-date this book is. I'm running OS X 10.2.3, and the book covers it all.
Two months ago I had never seen an iMac. Thanks to this book, I'm approaching "iMac expert" status - at least within my family.
33 Fantastic
This book is really worth every penny it costs. It is packed with useful information, well written, intelligent, and fun to read. Just Appendix C (the "Where'd It Go?" Dictionary), merely 20 pages, is worth the whole book: it goes through every function of OS 9, and explains what it is called in OS X, or by which other function it was replaced. Enough to get any user of OS 9 up and running with OS X in a few minutes!! The in-depth coverage of every other subject is as accurate as it gets. I particularly appreciated the chapter about customization. But the book goes as far as covering in perfectly understandable terms the basic Unix knowledge you may want to acquire to better understand your Mac OS X. Not to mention the incredibly accurate chapter about installing Mac OS X 10.2. By the way, contrary to many other publications that claim to be up-to-date with the latest software version, this book was REALLY written about 10.2, and it's not a revised 10.0 manual... The book you may want to have with you if you're ever stranded on a desert island with your Mac and a fresh copy of Jaguar!
34 Pogue bats a thousand... again!
If you really want to get going with OS X v 10.2.x, this second edition of David Pogue's Missing Manual for Mac OSX really delivers!
I have ordered several manuals for the mac updated to OS X Jaguar. I haven't found a question yet that Pogue's "Missing Manual" hasn't addressed fully, unlike the Jaguar ed. of the Little Black Book, which was nice, but brief, and often didn't even begin to address problems encountered with very common administration procedures, like setting capabilities and permissions for different user accounts. I had to go to Apple Tech Support, because I didn't yet have Pogue's "Missing Manual," which actually, was even more helpful than Apple's tech support!!
The index (20 pages!!!) has actually had an entry for every single hitch I've come up against. Even the Mac OS X online help doesn't do that! Just try typing in "sudo" to the online help and see what you get! The troubleshooting guide is a dream come true for anyone who's been flying by the seat of the pants since the day Jaguar was released! I've been able to solve problems left and right that I've just had to ignore since I went Jag because there was no manual in the box, the other manuals I got didn't help, and Apple care tech support didn't have the info, either! This is a technically direct and accessable encyclopedia of simple how-to info that will even give you the geeky "why-or-how-it works" if you really want to know. It will tell you all the incredible and powerful things your OS X 10.2.x can do that you didn't know until now. And, unlike the Mac onboard help, it will also tell you HOW you can get there from here!!
And besides that, it's fun! David Pogue has a long history of lightening you up while you're in the often desperate search of MacEnlightenment! You get high tech, direct help with ease of use and enjoyable reading. Who could ask for more? I'm recommending it to everymacuser I talk to!
If you really want to rev your new Jag, and you're only getting one manual, go with this one- the Missing Manual for Mac OS X, second edition. It's incredibly well written, jam packed full of useful and FINDABLE help, appropriately humorous, and best of all, it will actually ship when you order it!!!
35 Must-have information for any MacOS X user
With the second edition, Pogue has done a great job of addressing new Mac users, longtime Mac users (OS 9 converts), and Windows converts. He covers the desktop interface, networking, utilities, printing, application programs, and more. In each section, he covers the basics as well as the nitty-gritty details (with lots of useful tips along the way). He does a great job of explaining user accounts and permissions, including permission problems and how to correct them.
I read the first few chapters in detail, skimmed the rest, and now refer to the book whenever I have questions or problems. I've yet to run into anything that wasn't covered in this book.
36 An excellent guide, for Mac newbies and experts alike
Mac OS X is a great operating system, but to really get the most out of it you need a book like this Missing Manual. There's lots of little tips and tricks for newbies and long-time Mac users alike, and the book never talks down to the reader. The style of writing is very easy to read (and enjoyable too), with lots of screen captures to help you see the steps involved. Brief interludes on the history of various aspects of the Macintosh world are also interspersed throughout the book, adding background as to why features are there (or not).
One thing that is really refreshing about this book is that it is downright honest. Mac OS X is certainly not perfect, and it has its share of little glitches, flaws, and annoyances. Pogue comes out and mentions these up front, with no BS. And instead of just griping about it, he includes workarounds (official or otherwise) when they exist. He is obviously very excited and proud of OS X (as well he should be), and this enthusiasm is rather contagious. But he doesn't kid the reader about where the OS is less than stellar.
Enough blathering - I can sum up this book in one sentence: Whether you're new to the world of Macs (or computers in general), or someone who knows what 'dogcow' is, this book has lots of good stuff you can make use of. Buy it. Buy it NOW. :)
37 Apple should put this book in the box
Apple recently shifted to an operating system (OSX) based on UNIX. It's a bulletproof system, but those of us with years of experience on Macintoshes can get lost in the new system. And those people who are buying their first Mac are also lost because Apple's in-the-box manual is terribly scanty. Pogue is the best of the computer writers -- he doesn't bore people who don't need instruction in how to click a mouse and yet he doesn't lose the beginners either. With this book you are prepared to get the most out of what arguably is the most advanced operating system in the world. The book is intelligently organized and has what you need in time of computer crisis -- a great index. As a bonus, Pogue's book is eminently readable and occasionally witty (not silly like some of the forced-humor computer books, but truly witty).
38 I always look to see if David Pogue wrote a book
on whatever computer or software I buy because I know if I buy it then I'll be ok.
He makes everything easy. He writes as if he really cares if you understand the subject.
I keep the Missing Manual near my new laptop and refer to it often. I gave one to my sister also and she thanks me daily.
39 I was lost in OS X before this book
I was a power user of the Mac OS until X came along. After playing with the OS for a day and a half, I decided I needed some help in finding my way around.
Like other Mac books that Pogue has written, this one is excellent for either power users or new Mac owners.
I whole heartedly recommend this book to everyone but savvy Unix users.
40 Worth the money for experts and newbies alike
This book is well written, simple and concise, yet jam-packed with lot's of useful information and hints and tips for OSX Jaguar. If you are considering migrating to Jaguar, or even if you are already using it but would like to use it more effectively, you should get your money's worth out of this manual.
I consider myself a fairly expert Mac OS user, but still learned quite a lot from this book. Although I found myself skipping through several sections because it covered information that I already knew or that I knew I could easily figure out on my own, just by sitting down with the computer. For example, there is a section on iTunes that I did not feel I needed to read since I had been using iTunes already. There are several other sections that I skipped through because they seemed quite basic to me, although for beginners they are probably necessary.
41 Pouge saves any MAC day
David Pogue is the foremost and most helpful writer when it comes to MAC. He is great, straight forward and honest. Honest? I emailed him soon after I bought my G4 and listed my current booklist; there was a newer edition of MacSecrets out but he suggested given my system to wait for this book. I did and it is great. I started with Macs for Dummies, More Mac for Dummies, Mac Secrets 5th edition, Mac OS 9 and now Mac OS X the missing manual (all by Pogue). Macs are good but Macs with a Pogue book in hand are heavenly. Also, Bookmark his website and read his magazine stuff. The man in super. Words cannot express how helpful Pogue is or the frustration and stress he can remove. Waiting for more wonderful insight into a computer/company that wishes they understood thier own product as well as you. Thanks David Pogue.
42 The best one for me
I am new to Apple--and no computer wizard--, having bought my first iMac 3 months ago.
Well, as a complete newbe I bought and quickly went through 'The Little iMac' book and its larger cousin 'The Little iMac book OSX' ; however, as I bought one of the first OSX 10.2 iMacs these books were not fully up to date for Jaguar.
Now I'm hooked on the system, and have been enjoying many new things; I have quickly moved to the realm of serious application usage. However, there were many little things that were not covered or explained in the other books.
I was having some trouble with some technical things (moving 'home' folder to different partition, booting from different partitions, dedicated SWAP partition, iDVD, UNIX basics, burning movies to DVD-RW, restoring iTunes library, splitting iPhoto libraries, trouble shooting etc.). So I went and bought this book.
Perfect; compared to the other 2 books, there is much more detail and explanation on how and why things work.
Now, I know that the 'Little iMac Book' is just supposed to be an introductory guide, and that niether of the other books were writen for 10.2. However, I feel that you will soon outgrow a more basic book or not find as many useful items in a less well written full manual.
If you want a beginers guide-- that you will likely grow out of - get a simple introductory book. If you want a complete resource that you will enjoy learning from, get this one.
43 Pogue does it again
OS X can be puzzling even for experienced Mac users. That's why Mac OS X Missing Manual, Second Edition, by David Pogue is one book you should add to your bookshelf.
If you aren't familiar with any of Pogue's previous books, then you've missed reading one of the most intelligent and easy-to-read Mac writers since Robin Williams. Pogue writes in a clear, easy-to-follow style that makes it simpler to understand the sometimes arcane and relatively new operating system.
Most of Mac OS X Missing Manual concentrates on the non-unix and less geeky parts of OS X. And of course, that makes perfect sense, since venturing into the seemingly dark and obscure world of UNIX is an option in OS X, not a requirement.
But several chapters do delve into this foreign side of the new Mac OS. There's more than enough information to enable the reader to begin using UNIX features like the Terminal, SSH, FTP, VPN, and so on. Of course, this isn't a UNIX book, per se, so if really want to become a bull goose UNIX geek, you'll need another, or probably several, other books.
Since OS X includes some integral applications, like Mail, iPhoto, iChat, iCal, and the rest, so Mac OS X Missing manual also includes plenty of information to help you get the most of these free programs. The new OS X utilities are also covered in some detail, and since many of them are completely new to users of previous Mac operating systems, that's a very good thing.
This thick tome lists for $29.95, which isn't bad for a book of so much weight. One of the cost-cutting measures employed by O'Reilly Press in the Missing Manual series is to not stuff a CD full of questionably worthwhile, and most likely out-of-date (by the time you get them) utilities and applications in the back. However, every piece of shareware and freeware mentioned in the book is available for download from www.missingmanuals.com/cds/.
I like Pogues books, they have earned prominent places on my bookshelf, so I have no hesitation strongly suggesting that if you use OS X, you pick up a copy of Mac OS X Missing Manual.
44 LOST, BUT FOUND
Mac OS X is no doubt, a finely knitted Operating System. But for a new Mac user like me, maximizing its potentials wasn't the easiest adventure I've undertaken. Yes, I did get lost in the wilderness of Mac, but I found a road map in this "Missing Manual". Ever since, I've been savouring it page by page: slow and steady. It is comprehensive, and delivers its message without beating about the bush. And although I concede that it is not as voluminous as most reference texts are, I have decided to convert it to one as soon as I finish going through it once. It is detailed enough as to meet my immediate needs.
45 A must have for Jaguar
I have been a Mac user since 1984. Mac has come a long way since then and so has the opertating system. As one who was very familiar with Mac OS9.x after installing OSX I was completely lost.
Since this was my first exposure to OSX I started looking for information about how it worked and how to do the things that had become second nature with OS9. Mac OS X: The Missing Manual was the answer. The book covers everything a new user must know in order to use the system efficiently. In addition, the text covers Apple software that is part of OSX (e.g., iPhoto etc.). Mac OS X: The Missing Manual introduces you to the UNIX base on which OSX is built. The book discusses the basics on how to interact with the system using the Terminnal and UNIX commands. Interesting reading should you want to persue UNIX.
Mac OS X: The Missing Manual is the one book to have if you are new to OSX. Both the experienced OS9 user updating to OSX and the novice Mac user will find the Missing Manual very useful and a solid reference. Although stated many times, it is true, this book should be included with OSX.
46 A beginers viewpoint.
Pogue is probably an expert-- but has no ability to communicatr his knowledge to a beginer. for example there is No dictionary-No learning exercises.
He starts at an elevated level and assumes that the reader is with him--while the reader doesn't understand the meaning of his words! There is constant irrelative references to earlier Mac systems .
Plus there are distracting attempts at humor.
I have tied for five intensive months to get something useful from this book,
It is a real waste of time - forget about the$.
I have purchased Maria Langers--"Quickstart to OSX.10.2" and find that it of considerable more help.
47 The most HELPFUL book I've ever read on an OS!
I first started reading this book several months ago, and it's clearly a great book. I've learned so much from it. My dad bought it for himself (to use it with his quicksilver powermac G4), but it's currently hiding in my room for quick reference when I need it (right next to my G4 flatscreen iMac). I've spent many years playing around on Mac computers, even back when I was the silly little 3 year old jacking around in Macpaint and SmartArt back in the good old days of the original 128k Macintosh. My family has had at least 10 or 15 different Macintoshes that we've used over the years, so many that I can't count them all. However, it was only my dad who ever really did anything related to troubleshooting and messing around with the system folder, & the control panels (otherwise known as the system prefs in OS X now). Then, my dad got a PowerMac G4. The differences boggled my mind (I was still using the Family Mac- "Kansas"- that old slow PowerMac 8600 running OS 9 with only 72 MB of RAM!) I was amazed at how incredibly efficient OS X really is, but I couldn't navigate my way out of a paperbag while working around in it (seemingly odd for someone who's been experiencing the joy of Macintosh for 16 years now- ever since I was a little kid) lol. I remember the first time I saw the dock on my dad's computer. I clicked into a few folders, to launch Netscape 4.76 (which made classic start up), and I had no idea what classic was and I was just using dad's computer because the family mac was having problems. Then, I tried to click on a link that was in the bottom part of the page in Netscape, & the Dock pops up. I was like "What the Hell is THAT THING?!?!?!?" So I eventually learned the basics of OS X from my dad, but I needed something else to fill me in with all of the possibilities and details that he didn't cover on. Soon enough, as weird as it seems (because my dad usually isn't the kind of person who would do this), but he bought new computers for me and my sister. I got a 15" flatscreen iMac, and my sister got a G3 iBook. And I didn't know my way around the thing too terribly well. So I searched around in my dad's book collection (a good place to start...hehe), and this is the book I found. "OS X: The Missing Manual" by David Pogue. I was hooked from the first minute of reading it. I was deeply intrigued, and very amused at Pogue's humorous way of explaining things, especially for old-time classic Mac OS users like myself. It's great that he has included the "Where'd it GO?" Appendix in the book- that's been ESPECIALLY helpful to me. In reading the book, it's great that we no longer have the "Platinum Sounds" soundtrack in Mac OS X, meaning, my sister wont be able to irk me that way anymore on my mac (on the old family mac, she used to go into the control panels, and enable "platinum sounds", just so she could annoy me when I get on, because I REALLY hate those "swooshes & burps" as Pogue put it, so I'm glad to know that feature IS gone!) It's a very nicely done book. Pogue has organized this book very well, and described everything in an amusing way without the word clutter.
If you can't stand books that bore you to sleep due to authors with dry humor, AND, you can't find your way out of a paper bag while navigating your way around in Mac OS X, this book is DEFINATELY for YOU. ENJOY, because you GET your MONEY's Worth all the way. I DEFINATELY recommend this book. It's great, and It really has helped me out as "The Little Young Mac Veteran".
48 I have the 1st edition....should I get the 2nd?
As someone who read and highly valued the 1st edition of this book I was skeptical that the switch to OS 10.2 would render the 1st edition so irrelevant. However, I skimmed this book and ended up purchasing it. I am glad I did. Jaguar changes so many things and is such an extensive upgrade that the 2nd edition is really helpful to get a grasp on the different features. The 2nd edition covers apps that weren't in the 1st, e.g. iChat, iSync, iCal. The Unix section in the 2nd edition is also much more detailed and helpful. The sections on networking are also a big help. While the discussion of the Aqua interface is only slightly different than the 1st edition, the discussions of new and old apps, Unix, new networking features and changes to system preferences are radically different and make this book a great purchase. I normally don't think manuals are all that great but this one really improved my use of OS X and, I believe, has made me a more productive user.
49 David Weeks MyMac.com Book Review
... Unfortunately, most computer books tend to be massive tomes that are little more than elaborate regurgitation's of the skinny manuals and Help files shipping with the software itself. The reader learns little more than how to accomplish certain functions in a certain order. This is what I call the cookbook approach to computer manuals.
While there is a place for cookbook manuals, the best books transcend this genre, and teach both principles and background for understanding, as well as providing cookbook-style recipes for doing. David Pogue's most recent addition to his "Missing Manual" series does just this for Macintosh OS X. ...Mac OS X: The Missing Manual combines the basics of OS X for newbies, and provides a more-than-generous helping of advanced techniques and principles for power-users, or those who aspire to power-userdom. The primary reason I enjoyed Mac Mac OS X: The Missing Manual much more than the other OS X books I have read is that the book is simply fun to read. Pogue consistently writes with a light wit, yet he does not indulge in the sappy humor found in the "(fill in the blank) for Dummies" series. I learned something on almost every page, even though I consider myself an OS X power-user. Even the sections I did not need to read were interesting, and I felt little desire to skip ahead to chapters covering more advanced territory. Being able to hold the reader's attention is one mark of a good technical writer.
...Pogue includes plenty of coverage of Unix fundamentals, and he gives examples of using the Terminal application to do things that may be difficult or impossible in the Mac OS X graphic user interface. First, he makes it clear that diving into the Unixness inside OS X is optional for most users. Then he provides enough Unix instruction for the reader to get the task accomplished.
When I saw a detailed description of how to use the NetInfo database to create and edit User groups for file sharing purposes, I knew Pogue didn't shy away from addressing the more difficult parts of OS X. There is a substantial amount of advanced material for the intermediate to power-user to read and digest. The chapters on file permissions provided me the first thorough yet understandable overview of Unix file permissions I've read in a Macintosh-centric book.
In a refreshing display of candor, the author is not above admitting that certain features of OS X are less mature (or non-existent, for that matter) than in OS 9. Some aspects of administering file sharing in OS X are far less user-friendly than OS, ???NINE??? and Pogue makes no attempt to hide such unpleasant facts. Pogue's willingness to discuss OS X's faults and shortcomings is a pleasant surprise; most computer book authors tend to gloss over shortcomings of their subject application of operating system. Lest this review sound like a press release by the publisher, I do have a few quibbles with Mac OS X: The Missing Manual. I found the subject matter organization to be a bit confusing. For example, Part One, Chapter Two is titled "Organizing Your Stuff." This covers how to best understand the OS X folder structure, and how to organize your files. However, Chapter 3 "Dock, Desk, and Toolbar" has lots of great information on how to use the organizational aspects of the Dock to get easy access to your files. While I suppose it would be hard to meld the two chapters, I did not like information on how to organize your drive being spread around several chapters. Another example of topics being covered in widely separated locations is when Pogue discusses problems with deleting certain files and folders, he refers the reader to tips located hundreds of pages away in another chapters. The unavoidable result is lots of page flipping and bookmarking. At least it's worth the effort...
It's almost certainly got the information you need, be you a new OS X user, an OS 9 convert, and a regular OS X user searching for a good reference work.
You will enjoy reading it, which is a rare thing for computer books.
If you read it all, you'll know 95% of what you will ever need for beginner to power-user (but not Unix geek) level usage. As of this writing, David Pogue's Mac OS X: The Missing Manual is the best OS X book for your dollar.
MacMice Rating: 5 out of 5
------------------------------------------------------------------------
David Weeks
http://www.mymac.com/weeks/missing_2.25.02.shtml
50 Fabulous and nearly flawless
You have to read it to believe it, but David Pogue is a master of the form. He is very clear, cogent, and effective without being boring. That's a tremendous achievement. Who'd have thought that a 720-page computer manual would be a joy to read? Bravo!
51 Great book
I bought this book for my father who has just recently obtained MacOS X. However, I spent an hour or two going through it before I gave it to him and even picked up a few new tricks myself. This book seems to cover the bases well with plenty of material for beginners as well as topics such as Apple Script, common UNIX tools, and hacks which advanced users may enjoy. It also has a section on connecting to Windows computers, and a neat glossary at the back which will help people switching from the Windows world find their way in OS X.
If you are a Macintosh guru, this book will be a little on the basic side for you (most of it was familliar to me already). However, if you are anything less than a guru or if you are a new user to MacOS X I would highly recommend this book.
52 2nd Edition even better than the first
If you use MacOS X, you need this book. Period. The book has been thoroughly revised for MacOS 10.2 (aka jaguar) and the revision is extensive. All the new jaguar features are covered. Beginners will find everythng they need to get going, while experienced users will find things they didn't know. (For example, the character palette or dragging a proxy icon to duplicate a folder).
The book even teaches some basic unix and gives a complex example using pipes (read the book if you have no idea what that means) to show how simple unix tools can accomplish complex tasks.
I'm an die-hard GUI hacker, and the book discusses that, but doesn't go into the deepers realms such as changing the Appearance theme. The books does give pointers to advanced resources including books ("MacOS X Unleashed"...not yet updated for 10.2) and web sites (macosxhints.com, versiontracker.com) so you can learn more.
The book is so detailed that it is now halfway between a "missing manual" and an OSX version of the legendary "Mac Secrets" book. If David will do an OSX version of "Mac Secrets" he would probably have another best-seller on his hands.
This is an excellent book and I recommend it very highly.
53 Another Winner for David Pogue!
I found this manual not only interesting and fun to read, but also crammed full of useful information. Being a die-hard MAC fan, I wanted to learn all I could about MAC OS X, and this is the book that will teach you!
54 It was written on a Windows computer
The duplicitous David Pogue continues to make money off of poor Mac users while using Windows computers to get his work done.
55 Doesn't Answer Any Questions
I used a Mac years ago, but I am new to the eMac and its systems. Not once have I been able to have my questions answered and/or problems solved by referring to this book.
I tried to like this eMac and found myself working very hard to do so. But I am very sorry I bought this thing. The user has absolutely no access, let alone control, of the basic OS. Some users seem very happy about that; most don't know what I mean.
I've used every type of computer and operating systems during my 30- year career, and I cannot see how the eMac ever became popular. But Mac users seem delighted with it, which hints of the nightmares they experienced using past versions of Mac OSs.
Although I can only guess, it seems as though Mac users have never had system reference material before. And although the book has huge gaps in its coverage, for some reason it's being raved about as a great asset. After 2 months with this eMac, that doesn't surprise me.
56 Do Not Attempt to Operate OS X Without This Book!
While the online help included with OS X is great, it can't help you if you don't even know what questions to ask. Which is where I found myself despite being a pretty savvy Mac owner.
After a week of frustration I spent the afternoon at BN perusing every book they had on OS X. I bought this one because I decided it really was the most thorough "manual."
57 Hugely useful for beginners, full of nuggets for the pro
I got this for my Dad, an old-school Mac guy. I've been using Mac OS X since WWDC 2001 (and before) plus I am an old NeXT hand, so thought I knew all. As I flipped through the book, I was floored by the depth and breadth of the info in this book. Several of the tips became instant standard actions in my repetoire.
If you want to get more out of Mac OS X, step 1: get this book!
58 The Best resource for MacOS X
I consider myself a Mac specialist, and I still learned new things from this book. This is the best resource you'll find for learning about MacOS X, whether you're completely new to Macs or have been using them since 1984. You can't go wrong with this book.
59 disappointing
I bought this book based on the glowing reviews. I am completely disappointed. The language is verbose and obnoxious---"isn't your Mac wonderful" on every page. The info on the Aqua inteface and bundled applications is OK, but quite weak on the Mac-adapted features of the Unix OS. Of course, you knew that from the price. I recommend Mac OS X Unleashed.
60 THE Manual for Rookie and Veteran Mac Users Moving to OS X
I've been a Mac user for 12 years now. A few months ago, I upgraded my family's hardware (after 5 years with a wonderful 6500) and found myself staring at Mac OS X. I was a bit scared! I thumbed through David's book at a bookstore and decided to give it a try.
I've read every page, some twice!!
The book is very well organized, easy to read, and full of sidebars, tips, tricks, and some humor to boot. This book turned me into a semi-Power-Mac OS X user in a month.
I highly recommend it, so much so that I just ordered David's iPhoto and iMovie 2 "missing manuals."
61 Missing No Longer
I finally picked up _Mac OS X: The Missing Manual_. I've been meaning to grab it since I first heard that David Pogue wrote a book on OS X; I've been a fan of his for a while. I remember reading his stuff in Macworld - on System 7, even - when someone gave me a subscription (many) years ago, and his New York Times columns have generally been pretty good as well.
_Mac OS X: The Missing Manual_ is exactly what you'd expect if you've read any of Pogue's other books or columns - it's clear and straightforward without seeming dumbed down. His writing tends to be fairly light and often funny, making for particularly readable technical books. That's not to say it's without substance, though - within the first chunk of this book (which is pushing six hundred pages) I'd already had a dozen of my exisiting questions answered as well as plenty I hadn't even thought to wonder about.
It seems pretty definitely directed at people who've been using Mac OS for a long time and are switching to OS X; given that OS X contains nothing at all from the previous versons of the operating system it's not surprising that it takes some getting used to, despite vaguely _looking_ like Mac OS. If you've never used OS 8 or 9 and don't have any existing Mac habits to unlearn, you might not even need a book like this - but I suspect it would still be pretty useful. As the title implies, Apple documentation tends to be slim to non-existent, and this is by far the most thorough OS X book I've seen yet. Definitely recommended.
62 Perfect for new Mac users
When I bought my iBook recently I knew I had to get something to help me along because I have mostly used PC's all my life. I skimmed many books but ended up with this one because it seemed comprehensive, and actually funny! I really needed something to hold my hand through my first few weeks of being a Mac user and The Missing Manual was perfect. It covers everything from the dock to UNIX and the author obviously loves macs and knows what he's talking about. Whenever I turn on my computer the book is at my side and I bet the same goes for even experienced Mac users because as he says in the book, Mac OS X is much different than OS 9. I love that as a novice I never felt lost navigating the strange world of the Mac OS, and that the author doesn't skimp on info that might be of use to me down the line, like if I get bored one day and attempt UNIX. It's an excellent book all around.
63 Missing manual, missing chapter
Examine your copy of this book carefully. So far I have found at least one missing chapter.
Otherwise the content has been very helpful and I would buy it again especially if I could have the missing chapter.
64 Best System, Best Book
Here's the bottom line on this book: if I could find a better book on the new MAC OS X, I would have bought it. David Pogue has done a masterful job of making this new OS understandable and more importantly, usable. I haven't touched a MAC since grad school, having transferred to a PC. After reading this book, the transformation from PC person to OS X person was so painless, I kept waiting for a gotcha. None to be found. I might have to look into what else O'Reilley Press has to offer.
65 Book review
Mac OS X: The Missing Manual
Paperback, Third Printing, February 2002, 596 pages
By David Pogue
å© Copyright 2002 by Pogue Press, LLC
ISBN 0-596-00082-0
Review written June 23, 2002
By Donald W. Larson, O•À?Reilly Book Evangelist
In February 2002 I moved over from MacOS 9.1 to the new Apple Operating System MacOS X. It•À?s a major change in usage even with a great user interface like Aqua. Although I•À?m an Apple user since 1981, I knew I would need a great new reference nearby to help me in the transition from old to new. I asked my O•À?Reilly contact for the book I•À?ll speak to next.
David Pogue•À?s, •À?Mac OS X: The Missing Manual•À?, is a tremendous help for anyone moving to the new Mac OS. I•À?ve met David when he came to a few of my San Diego Macintosh User Group picnics. He•À?s a great guy and a very talented person. One of his talent•À?s is writing and in the titled book, he expresses the new frontier •À?X•À? with clarity.
The book has 21 chapters and six appendices. It covers everything I could think of that a beginner or expert user would love to know about •À?X•À?. David begins the transition to the new OS from the vantage point of the user viewing the Aqua experience the first time. He traverses the topics of folders and the Dock, which presents the most visible changes in how information is organized on the hard drive.
He writes about how the programs are different and how AppleScript is supported in new ways. An entire chapter is devoted to the concept of discrete users and how those spaces are kept distinct from one another. This bears witness to the underlying Unix operating system that governs the new machine.
Because Unix is available underneath, David takes the time to explain the permissions concept and how to use the Terminal program to explore the depths of Unix and lead us easily into that new realm.
I initially started reading this book straight through back in February. I found the writing style was easy to follow but I kept getting sidetracked with David•À?s suggestions to try his exercises out. Often one thing leads to another and I lost my reading train-of-thought. I enjoyed his style so much I gave up trying to read straight through. I discovered instead his book is a well-written reference book with a story perspective to it.
For the last few months I grabbed for this book every time I needed a fast answer about MacOS X. David maintains a website with up-to-date information and many free or shareware program listings that accompany the book. I now have a pretty good working knowledge of the book•À?s material. I attended the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference last May and I•À?m glad I had absorbed much of the book by then. Many of the presentations at that conference were clear because of the foundation I had learned from the book.
Everyone using MacOS X needs this book. Thanks David!
Rating 10 out of 10. This rating is my own personal value system and as such is very subjective. I think a rating of 5 means I would read finish reading a book. A rating of 10 would indicate I had trouble putting a book down and have no complaints at all about it.
66 Great Book!
This is the best book to get started in OS X that I found. I have used OS X for over a year now and thought I had pretty much figured everything out, but this book still provided some really cool tricks I hadn't been aware of before. We're in the process of switching every Mac in the office over to OS X, and I got a copy of this book for every Mac user. At this price, this book provides incredible value. I would recommend it even at twice the price!
67 Another GREAT Pogue tome! If you can't learn from this...
Once again a master writer and teacher has delivered. On many levels I always found Pogue to be among the best. I started with his "for Dummies" and have, Mac Secrets and several more, all of which are fact filled and super informative. As I scanned the other comments 98% agree; as for the few critics, if you are so smart go write your own book, or at least seek professional help. A MUST HAVE book for any Mac user willing to learn. Thank You David Pogue.
68 Incorrect information!
Maybe everyone else thinks all of the information is wonderful, but I don't. Pogue doesn't seem to have the same Power Mac G4 OS X (10.1.4) with two hard drives that I do! His information on setting up and using email doesn't work on my computer. His information on how to send email document attachments from the Mac to a PC is incorrect: you cannot utilize .doc--nor am I able to send anything created in an Appleworks 6 document to any PC. There are many missing topics, and I don't care what the OS 9 had! He doesn't even note that some major videocams with still camera mode will NOT connect to Image Capture! If the easy tasks don't work the way he says they do, then I have no chance of ever learning Unix! Maybe he'd like to intercede with Steve Jobs about responding to HELP! letters? There are more problems with a Mac than with PCs....
69 Excellent Mac OS X Book Compared to Many Others!!
Well, initially I bought "Mac OS X Unleashed" and that was a mistake. [Thisi is] for intermediate to advanced users,...I had to return it. What I wanted was EXACTLY what this book "Mac OS X: The Missing Manual" offers! This book is extremely complete and detailed. If I was going to write a book about Mac OS X, this would be how I would have written it. 2 Thumbs up to David Pogue. This book will sit beside my PowerMac G4 for all of eternity. One thing I really wanted to learn about as a new Mac OS X user was aliases, what they are, how to use them, etc. I figured it out by myself, but this book really made it clear to me. Also, it explains in lamen's terms AppleScript and all the features of Mac OS X you haven't heard of! This is the #1 Mac OS X book to buy if you're a new Mac user, or new to Mac OS X, or if you are intermediate. If you're a Power User who knows everything there is to know so far, then get "Mac OS X: Unleashed". If you're not that advanced, please consider this book! IT'S EXCELLENT!! Hope this review helped!!! I love using MAC OS X and I hope you do too; get this book - it'll show you many awesome things about Mac OS X!
70 Pretty good, not great, but the best I've seen.
I bought this book a week or two after I got OS X and found that most of the information contained in it I had already discovered by playing around with the OS. But then, I've never been afraid to crash a computer or completely screw up settings and one day when I learn to back up my data I'll be proud of that fact. In the mean time, if you're timid about exploring and worried about what will happen if you mess around with your system preferences, then this is the book for you. And even if you are adventurous, you'll learn a few worthwhile shortcuts and diagnostic tools. The book is well named and worth the money.
71 The best manual you can get on OSX
This easy to read, clear, and detailed book is, in my opinion, the best documentation you can get on OSX. It has tips and tricks for everybody from the beginner to the advanced, outlining all sorts of great information about an OS that just when you learn something about, surprises with even more functionality.
As a PC convert, this book was indispensible in showing me just what OSX can do. The only caveat here is that it doesn't have a whole lot UNIX information (the real power behind OSX), but for that, go score a UNIX book (specifically a BSD Unix book). As far as documenting the capabilities of Aqua (and there's just ridiculous amounts of functionality built into Aqua) I'd say you can't go wrong with this book.
72 Interesting to read...
This book is very easy to read thru, has humor and I am glad I bought it.However being a newbie in the mac world{very experienced in all flavors of windows} this book has many wasted pages on ..".this is how we did this in OS9.". if that would have been ..how we did this in windows.. then I could have used that info. So this is not THE book for a PC convert but a good read.
73 I wouldn't have gotten my Powerbook without it...
I am a new convert to Macintosh and bought this book shortly after my first week with my new Powerbook. The book is easy to read and provides all the detailed answers you need in an easy to find format. This is a must have reference for OS X. I especially like that the book provides enough discussion of UNIX to really excite you about it's possibilites. I am on my way to discovering the world of UNIX because of this manual and have made my transition to the world of OS X with very few hitches given I was once a die-hard Win 2000 user.
74 Lower your blood pressure now
I consider myself a MAC expert and avoided buying this book out of pride for too long. I have never needed a MAC book before and tried for 2 unhealty weeks to fully understand OSX through the Apple "help" menu. Ha!! While it's true that much of the info in this book can be found within Apple's OSX help menu, the main advantage to using this book for help is that a user can actually FIND the help they need quickly, and furthermore, the info offered in this book is concise, accurate and IT WORKS (i love Apple, but i must say that their OSX help menu is neither helpful, nor is it actually a functioning menu of what OSX offers, how it works, or what it can do). Within the first hour of owning this book, I solved 3 major problems whose solutions had eluded me for the past day (during which i could feel my blood pressure rising out of control, the more i used the Apple "help" menu). Buy it now, live longer.
75 A necessity for all OS X users!
I do not yet own Mac OS X, but I'm glad I bought this book first. At first I was unsure about installing Mac OS X but after reading Mr. Pogue's book I can't wait to get Apple's new operating system. His writing style is casual and easy to follow, without overdosing on too many screen shots, symbols and icons. This is truly the manual Apple should have put in the box. GET THIS BOOK!
76 Trust me - BUY THIS BOOK - A pleasure to read!
I have been using Mac computers since 1986. For the past 8 years, I have been editing films and videos professionally on Apple's top-of-the-line Macs, from System 8 to the current OS 10.1.
David Pogue has written a book that takes the anxiety out of switching to a brand new operating system. I consider myself a professional Mac user, and still this book was not only educational, but extremely informative and pleasing to read. The graphic examples and writing style will make the beginner as well as the advanced user happy they purchased this.
The book never 'talks down; to the reader. Instead, David Pogue brings the reader inside the Mac, showing us how the new OS thinks, and how it is now easier and more fun then ever to work on a Macintosh.
Many people not familiar with OS X do not realize how advanced and how sophisticated an operating system it is. "The Missing Manual" covers OS 10.1 and is an excellent introduction to the new operating system, and an excellent presentation. I love having OS X on my Macintosh....Don't forget to "Think Different" and give this book a well-deserved look. Enjoy!
77 A Required Reference
If you are reading this review, you are like I am, a devoted Mac fan. Furthermore, you probably own a David Pogue book. It is time to buy another.
"Mac OS X: The Missing Manual" is a necessary addition your technical libary.
Technical manuals for the Mac OS are abound, but Pogue manages to steer clear of the techie-talk that so often plagues the other books. In keeping with the tradition of Apple, and the creative nature of Mac users, he approaches "Mac OS X: The Missing Manual" with a tongue-in-cheek sensiblity.
Pogue sorts out the pros and cons of OS X, while acknowledging the future of the Mac OS. He keeps his explanations simple, honoring the basic truth that Macs are easy to use.
Users new to Macs will be pleased as Pogue points the way to a transitioning to from a Windows-based OS. No reason to be intimidated by the 400+ pages. The book is organized well, and will be comfortable to use either as a manual, or as a reference book.
I fully recommend "Mac OS X: The Missing Manual" by David Pogue.
Anthony Trendl
78 Great Book on OS X
If you have OS X and you don't have this book, you're missing out.
Pogue writes near perfect after-market computer manuals--easy enough for beginners but with plenty of meat for computer professionals. With a touch of humor too, just enough to be pleasant.
I'm looking forward to other books in the "Missing Manual" series.
79 Superb all-around guide
A superb all-around guide to OS X for those who are already familiar with the basics of computing (e.g. how to use a mouse, the difference between a file and a folder, etc.) but aren't especially interested in the complexities of Unix. What sets Pogue apart is his tone - you feel as though you're learning from a real, opinionated human being who anticipates your questions and answers them in a friendly, down-to-earth manner, without being cloying or condescending. He not only explains how to do things, but whether they're worth doing, and why. If I were to write a Mac guide, I would want it to read like this one.
If you're completely new to computers and Macs, I would recommend this as a supplement to Robin Williams' "The Little OS X Book", which focuses more on the fundamentals and provides more visual guidance. But both books are superb all-around guides for the average user.
80 Definitely a must-have...
After installing and playing around with Mac OS X I immediately was on the search for books and references to help me regain my self-proclaimed 'poweruser' status. I became quickly disappointed with most OS X books I leafed through as I saw that most of what's been covered in all those books I'd learned or could easily learn by fiddling around with the OS. I wasn't very much looking forward to Missing Manual by the time I'd a copy to flip through but, to my amazement, I found there was information that was explained very well that would allow a poweruser to get up to speed as quickly as possible but I could also see myself having bought this book even if I were new to the Mac entirely- even Pogue's comparison of the OS 9 and OS X learning curves are right on the money. The icing on the cake is that this rather large, informative and approachable book is a great price for what it offers. See you all at MWNY 2002!
81 for the novice but
The book seems to be missing infomation on useful commands.
82 Excellent resource for Mac OS 10 and 10.1 users!
David Pogue, the author of Mac OS X, The Missing Manual, REALLY knows the Mac! He's been using and writing about Macs for years and years - and is the best Mac author out there - I've read them all. His number one strength is his ability to explain things in a 'plain English' manner. He uses real-world analogies, avoids acronyms and is truly clear! This makes a huge difference. Other authors think that they're clear, but Pogue pays attention to the smallest details, making it as easy as possible - while still imparting advanced information. Pogue's latest book offers detailed info about the strengths of OS X, the weaknesses of the Classic mode, as well as making the transition from OS 9.x, and superb advice on how to optimize your machine to work with both operating systems if need be. Whether you would like to *really* learn OS 10, or merely stay familiar with Apple's operating system, this is the only Mac book you'll need. Pogue covers everything - and very well. I highly recommend it! Pogue's iMovie 2 and Mac OS 9 Missing Manuals are also excellent. And, don't miss Pogue's column in the Technology section of the New York Times; like his books, they're informative, humorous - and hard to put down.
83 Don't waste your money
90% of what is in this book can be found in the help files that ship with Mac OS X. I found that this book is written for the first time computer owners. This book is usless to anyone that has been using a computer for more than 6 months. I was under the impression that I would learn more about Mac OS X. I was wrong and I have only been using OS X for a month. Don't waste your money.
84 A great book to start using OS X with
Another excellent book from David Pogue. This a wonderful resource; especially for people like me, making the transition from the MAC OS to OS X. The Where'd it go section alone was a great thing to have. I'm making the change after 8yrs of using the old OS, and this book will stay close at hand for the forseeable future.
Mr. Pogue has once again written a valuable book that is easy to use and understand. Thanks David!!
85 Fantastic book
From page one to the last, this book offers tips and trick at every page. I wasn't expecting that much in ordering it. An excellent surprise.
86 Pogue hits another homerun!
David Pogue is one of the best technical authors of our time, and once again he hits a homerun!
I've been using Mac OS X as my primary operating system for the last month, and I've had absolutely no trouble learning Mac OS X in record time. It's such a great operating system... so elegant, so user-friendly, so intuitive, so crash-resistant.
And so I wondered, "Okay... do I really need to purchase David Pogue's manual on Mac OS X? I mean, I have a really firm grasp on the OS to begin with!"
And as I started reading the book, the answer became a resounding YES! Before I had even finished the first chapter, I had already learned dozens of new tips, tricks, secrets, explanations, and reasonings that I did not know! Stuff that I didn't REALIZE I wanted to know until I read them in Pogue's book.
And as always, Pogue's breezy, friendly, & cheerful writing style makes this manual read like a gripping novel. You can read this from cover-to-cover without ever losing interest.
This book is a must read. It should come bundled with every copy of Mac OS X.
87 A MUST HAVE BOOK!!!
Even if you are an OS X newbie or an expert this is a must have book. There is so much info on OS X in this book you will gain from reading it. This is the best MAC OS X book out by far. Now go get it now.
88 Close, but not quite there... better books exist....
This book is well-done, but it doesn't target a specific audience. It has one foot in the beginner level and one foot in the intermediate level. It doesn't address either well enough.
Also, the book's beginner level content lacks the depth required to make this book appropriate for someone who is completely new to the Mac OS, or computers in general.
Great publisher. Great author. Average book....
For a terrific beginner level book, go with Robin William's "The Little Mac OS X Book." For intermediate to advanced level content, with UNIX coverage, go with "Mac OS X Unleashed," by John and William Ray. Both books cover OS X 10.1. Another book that may be good is Maria Langer's "Mac OS X Advanced, Visual QuickPro Book."
89 You need this book if you run OS X
Mac's OS X is a whole different operating system than any previous Macintosh interface. It's pretty, but it can be infuriating, especially to those -- like me -- who've put in years learning the old system and now discover that this new Unix-based Mac system does everything differently. Enter David Pogue, the best explainer and hand-holder on the planet. This is the book Apple should have included with OS X (thus the title). It will get you through the complexities -- and explain the joys -- of OS X. And it will calm you when you are ready to scream, because Pogue will tell you what to do, clearly and cheerfully.
90 This book kept me from going crazy....
If you have OSX or are thinking about installing it, this book is a MUST HAVE. OSX is a remarkable operating system, but I felt like I was back in the first grade trying to navigate between the world I was familiar with and this new one. After buying another book (that will go nameless) which offered absolutely no assistance at all, I discovered David Pogue's "Missing Manual." Finally, my computer and I became friends again. It is extremely well written and easy to follow. Every chapter holds countless tidbits of information, tips, and screen shots to guide you through the OSX maze. The "Programs and Documents" and "Back to Mac OS 9" chapters helped me tremendously in understanding how to work effectively with both systems. I've spent hours pouring over the information in this book and have highlighted hundreds of "must knows." I haven't attempted Applescripts yet, but I'm ready to try with this excellent resource in hand. I wish I had bought it months earlier. It would have saved me from some major headaches and the cost of several bottles of aspirin. Thank you, David Pogue!
91 Absolutely Complete & Thorough
I've been using macs for 20 years and when I decided to make the OS-X transition I looked at all the available books and picked this one. I was pleasantly surprised how well written, thorough and accessible it is. I don't rave about things very often but this book deserves some raves. I'll look for Pogues books from now on when I need a mac reference book.
92 Genuine Pogue
David Pogue is my favorite non-fiction author. He makes learning a pleasure, even funny.
Go get it.
93 The best choice out there
Several reviewers have stated that this book somtimes lacks focus and to a degree that's true. But come on guys, for the novice to advanced intermediate user this is flat out the best book available. Pogue brings his typical, comfortable and easy to read style to this book striking the right balance between informality and information. No insultingly bad attempts at humor. No didactic lecturing just a lot of easily digested learning.
I 've been teaching a new introduction to OS X class at the local community college and use this as a text. I polled the students and they all feel that this is a "way above average" text book. 'nuf said.
94 Mac OS X: The Missing Manual
This book is exactly what I was looking for. It is written in a lively, relaxed style which makes it easy to learn and fun to read. I wanted some depth so that I understood what the designers of OS X had in mind and why they have set the system up the way it is. There are tips in this book which let me really get into OS X and make the most of its features. I like keyboard short cuts - David shows us them all. One of the best computer books I have ever read. Exciting!!
95 best macos x book
This is the best book on macos x . I have bought a few and this one really helps to understand this great os.
96 The Ultimate User Friendly Guide to OSX
David Pogue has a rare ability to make a complex subject understandable. He did it with his 'Missing Manuals' Guides to System 9 and iMovies but had the good sense to wait until OS Version 10.1 before giving us the definitive step by step guide to the new system.
The language is non technical but each aspect of the system is clearly explained and more important how each can be used. To this he has added valuable hints and tips and for the more technically curious some explanation of the underlying Unix System.
This is a generously illustrated book which can sit by the computer as you follow the steps beginning with the new layout and going on to explain how to use every aspect of OSX. It is structured to lead both first timers and System 9 converts into the new OS with an opening chapter which takes the reader through the new way of dealing with windows, folders and desktop. This is complimented by an appendix which explains where familiar parts of the former system are now located.
This leads to a chapter 'Organising your stuff' which demonstrates the day to day operating of the system before going on to examine the new Desktop, the Finder Toolbar and the content of the Applications and Documents folders. Each of the programmes provided is analysed and considerable space is devoted to iTunes, iMovie, iTools and Quicktime. The structure of the book provides a step by step journey through the use of OSX but also allows the impatient to dip in and find answers or check the Troubleshooting resource.
From my experience of David Pogue's earlier books I awaited this one before jumping into the new system and I am very glad I did. Other books I looked at are much more superficial and the early ones are now out of date. There are two other reasons for buying this as the only OSX book you will need. Go to the publisher's site and you can read a sample chapter and decide before you place an order ... On the site you will also be able to download all of the shareware programmes mentioned in the book and save the cost of an added CD.
97 Just a fabulous book
I thought the book was fabulous. I read it cover to cover and learned at least fifty things I didnt know before and I was an early osx adopter. I highly recommend the book.
98 Best map to a great computing experience
I second Ronster42's assessment for the most part. I too remember the thrill of first encountering the Mac in 1984 - and my reaction on seeing 10.1 in 2001 comes pretty close. David Pogue's book is an excellent companion - in my opinion, it's a good thing that Apple doesn't ship a manual - nothing they could write would come close to this. What I like best about it is that it combines readability with heft. I usually hate to read manuals, but with this book I'm tempted to read it cover to cover both because it's easy to do and provides valuable information in each sentence. You've got to love a book that tells you everything from how to play chess with your computer by speaking to it to the key Unix commands you need to know to look like a power user of the Terminal window.
99 Best yet for OS X
This is a worthwhile purchase, even for a person that may consider themselves a "power user."
I do agree, however, with a previous reviewer on the comments concerning the intended audience - the author can't quite decide if it's for OS 9 ingrained, long-time MAC OS users, or those new to computers entirely.
That doesn't seem to jive with my previous statement concerning "power users," but I stand by that statement, so as you get over the annoyance of everything being explain by "icons," you will learn quite a bit from this book - I certainly have, and I'm a UNIX vet, but not a MAC OS vet.
Some of the other titles out there for OS X now are very dated, based on 10.0, or worse, the public beta. Additionally, I've perused some that are utterly useless, and could've been labeled "for dummies."
100 I'm Glad I Waited for "The Missing Manual"
I saw other books out when OS X was released but something about this OS told me that I needed a book from David Pogue to sort it out. Just the introduction resolved a lot of frustration I had been having with OS X (and 9) on my iBook. The book is very thorough yet easy to read. David's writing style is parallel with the "user friendliness" of the Macintosh and he brings a joy to the learning of technical subjects.
