how to write computer books

Perfect books for Han Solo and Obi Wan

Following up my previous post, here are the sort of books each mentor would ideally write…

The perfect Han Solo book:

• Is on a topic that is fun to learn about and play with
• Is on a topic where mistakes won’t matter much
• Has a confident target reader who isn’t afraid to have a go
• Deals with a big topic, and only introduces highlights / gets the reader started – leaves the reader with lots of unanswered questions but excited to keep learning

The perfect Obi Wan book:

• Is on a topic that isn’t much fun in itself – but is useful and genuinely worthwhile
• Is on a topic where the reader can’t afford to make mistakes
• The reader lacks confidence and needs reassurance
• Covers the chosen topic comprehensively

Few books meet all categories, which is why most books will borrow elements from both styles.