Paul McFedries has been wrestling with computers (metaphorically speaking) for over 25 years. He has a degree in mathematics, can swap out a computer circuit board in seconds flat, and once even used the phrase paradigm shift in a sentence. Despite all of this, McFedries still, inexplicably, has a life. He is the author of more than 40 computer books that have sold over two million copies throughout the solar system. His most recent titles include The Complete Idiot's Guide to Windows Me, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Creating a Web Page, and Special Edition Using JavaScript. When asked what made him an expert on Windows XP, McFedries responded: If XP crashes, I know how to get it started again with a well-aimed kick. My mouse skills are terrifyingly advanced. I'm a close, personal friend of a guy who almost went to the same high school as a woman who has the same last name as Bill Gates. Although primarily a freelance writer by day, at night McFedries wears other hats, including president of Logophilia Limited and head spy of the world-famous Word Spy Web site (check out http://www.logophilia.com/WordSpy/). He lives with Karen, the love of his life, and Gypsy, the kissing dog. His favorite hobbies are building large wooden structures, taking naps, and talking about himself in the third person. He can be reached via the Internet (compliments and kudos preferred) by sending an e-mail missive to this book's address:
[email protected]. You-yes, you-are also encouraged to drop by his Web site: http://www.mcfedries.com.
