[tjamnz]

Hello,

I'm looking for a few books and was wondering what some
members favorites are on the subject.

Thks!

[codejockey]

You will probably want/need at least two different types of books. If you want to understand Linux/Unix itself (i.e., the operating system) you will need a book that explains Linux/Unix commands, shell programming, devices, program development (compilers, linkers, etc.), and system administration. If you want to understand how to do things in Gnome/KDE/some-other-environment, then you should choose a book that focuses on that environment, as the utilities and interface may be very different from one environment to the next.

There are many very good introductory books on Linux/Unix, but even at 500+ pages, they only scratch the surface. My suggestion: if you expect to be using Linux/Unix from a GUI interface, select a book that describes that interface. If you expect to be using Linux/Unix from the command line, select a book that describes basic operations such as logging in, changing your password, editing text, connecting to the internet, etc. (i.e., whatever commands you are most likely to use).

Warning: if you are a newcomer to Linux/Unix, whatever book you choose will very likely seem like overload. Promise: it gets better. Linux/Unix repays careful study thousands of times over.

Hope this helps.

[surfnschultz]

The O'Reilly books are my favorites. They seem to talk to the reader and explain things clearly. But that is my own opinion. I hope you find unix/linux to be a good OS it has been a good one for me for over 20 years. UNIX ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!
www.oreilly.com

[lynch]

How do you solve a thread based on opinions?
After 2 replies?
Anyway....
There are some good distro-specific books that may fill the bill.
I do recommend the Linux Bible 2005.

[Big-K]

I myself have never used a book and work fine with linux...then again I'm one of those people who usually works best with self-learning.

[codejockey]

Well, I think Lynch, surfnshultz and BigK summed things up pretty well (and I won't try to do better! ). If nothing else, all pointed out that we all have our own perspectives, viewpoints and goals (not to mention character flaws! ). Check out the recommended volumes, and see what works best for you (and please share your experiences with the rest of the TSG visitors). Of course, I stand ready to guide you on the TRUE PATH ( ...). Alternative opinions available 0X1807().

[tjamnz]

Cool thanks... I'm in the process of buying another hard drive so I can install my roomies Mandrake 10.1 installation cd's. After reading a few A+ mans, Network + mans, and windows mans I think im ready for the switch.

peace.