BOOK REVIEWS DESKTOP PUBLISHING WITH WORDPERFECT: WINDOWS EDITION by Roger C. Parker ($21.95, 315 pp., paper). Ventana Press, P.O. Box 2468, Chapel Hill, NC 27515; (919) 942-0220; Fax (919) 942- 1140. With his latest book, Roger C. Parker, author of the highly acclaimed and bestselling "Looking Good In Print" and "Desktop Publishing With WordPerfect" (for DOS versions 5.0 and 5.1), introduces Windows users to graphics tools that can transform standard documents into something special. In 315 pages, Parker outlines various principles of effective page design and shows how to apply these rules when creating a range of documents with WordPerfect's new operating environment. The author covers, in full detail, how to create attractive layouts, working with type and graphics, document organization, and using macros. He also offers a host of graphics and design ideas to spice up ads, newsletters, reports and brochures. With "Desktop Publishing With WordPerfect: Windows Edition", the reader will also learn how to add borders and headers, preview up to 8 pages at a time, create links with spreadsheet programs, and add dozens of graphic enhancements to documents. Illustrations, step-by-step examples and design tips all add up to making Parker's latest book a key to creating attractive adds, brochures, newsletters, proposals, and other projects. DOS, WORDPERFECT & LOTUS OFFICE COMPANION: SECOND EDITION by Robert W. Harris ($19.95, 401 pp., paper). Ventana Press, P.O. Box 2468, Chapel Hill, NC 27515; (919) 942--0220; FAX (919) 942-1140. This revised and expanded version of Robert Harris's bestselling guide to the leading PC-based software is being touted as "Your Business Software Bible". That's probably because Harris has brought the new edition up to speed for the latest versions of all three software packages. He's also added dozens of new productivity tips and timesavers not found in manufacturer's manuals. "Office Companion: Second Edition offers complete coverage of DOS (through version 5.0), Lotus 1-2-3 (through 2,3) and WordPerfect (through 5.1). Dos shell, the software's graphical user interface, is thoroughly examined, as are new commands--including UNDELETE, UNFORMAT, DOSKEY and the improved DIR command. Enhanced Lotus graphing features are addressed, and Harris provides Mouse support for all three software packages. Three sections, and 230 illustrations, cover the industry's leading software operating system, word processing and spreadsheets, offering dozens of tips, techniques and shortcuts designed to help the average user accomplish routine work. Another satisfying feature of this revised work is that it is written in a non-technical style for beginning and intermediate users. The "Office Companion: Second Edition" could be a valuable tool as an ongoing guide for increased productivity. VOODOO DOS: TIPS & TRICKS WITH AN ATTITUDE by Kay Yarborough Nelson ($19.95, 320 pp., paper). Ventana Press, P.O. Box 2468, Chapel Hill, NC 27515; (919) 942-0220; FAX (919) 942-1140. Veteran computer book author Kay Yarborough Nelson shows DOS users (through 5.0) how to put themselves at the center of the DOS universe with operating tips and shortcuts that get the lead out. The best part is, you don't have to be an expert to use this book. All the tricks are short and relatively easy to use, and they get results quickly, without the reader having to dig out all the complex theory behind them. "Voodoo DOS" shows users how to get started, including upgrading and setup tips; customizing DOS and its help files, and finding disk space. The user is also shown how to master the secret of the Shell--menu shortcuts; to mouse or not to mouse; switching from the shell to the command line; navigating through lists; selecting files; and file attribute tricks. And all of that is just the beginning. "Voodoo DOS" will also show users how to work with programs; manage disks and hard drive; concoct formulas in DOS 5.0 alchemy; organize batch files; get the most from Doskey; manage DOS from memory, and much more. Offering more than just the usual productivity hints, "Voodoo DOS" catalogs common DOS traps, blind alleys and pitfalls and reveals ways to avoid them. A comprehensive index gives the reader quick access to tricks on any particular topic. Nelson is the author of more than a dozen computer books and her knowledge and expertise provide an invaluable resource and reference for all DOS users. OPEN YOUR OWN BED & BREAKFAST: SECOND EDITION by Barbara Notarius and Gail Sforza Brewer ($14.95, 239 pp., paper). John Wiley& Sons, Inc., 605 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10158-0012; (212) 850-6000. This updated and revised "Second Edition" is a handy guide and resource that tells you everything you need to know to start and operate a successful bed and breakfast. The authors explain that no signs, advertisements or renovations are needed for many homeowners, because there are countless ways people can make extra money offering little more than a comfortable room and some hospitality. The "Second Edition" also offers valuable information on your responsibilities--and those of your guests, evaluating your home's assets and liabilities, what to charge your guests, legal, tax and insurance issues, working with a reservation service, specialty B&Bs, starting up, and operating smoothly. There is also a section featuring helpful interviews with successful hosts, as well as several popular B&B breakfast recipes. Whether your dream is to buy an old country mansion fixer-upper to begin your own Bed & Breakfast, or just to enjoy some tax advantages and added income while entertaining in your own home, "Open Your Own Bed & Breakfast: Second Edition" can answer all your questions and help you get started. FINANCIALLY FREE!: THE "HOW TO'S" OF BUILDING A LARGE, SUCCESSFUL DIRECT SALES/NETWORK MARKETING ORGANIZATION by Dennis Windsor ($14.95, 255 pp., paper). Winward Press, Windsor International, P.O. Box 850201, Richardson, TX 75085; (214) 644-7500; FAX (214) 423-9645. In "Financially Free!",internationally known author, lecturer and seminar leader Dennis Windsor, provides specific actions to take to succeed in the Direct Sales/Network Marketing industry. From how to become debt free, to how to open new markets nationally and internationally, "Financially Free!" covers proven strategies for building a successful direct sales organization. Since the Direct Sales/Network Marketing industry has emerged into one of the most explosive business opportunities of the 1990's, the author's in-depth guide to success in the industry is quite timely. It is an all inclusive reference guide containing everything part time or full time distributors need to know in order to succeed. Topics include how to develop full time distributors internationally; how to use advertising and get results; how to open new markets nationally/internationally; how to earn big money long term; how to master public speaking; how to use direct mail, and how to benefit from telemarketing. Also included in the book are over 30 pages of work sheets and distributor's tracking sheets. The strategies and insights offered in "Financially Free!" apply to most businesses and are explored with an eye toward entrepreneurship. It's an easy read and a valuable tool for survival in today's economy. SBA HOTLINE ANSWER BOOK by Gustav Berle ($14.95, 173 pp., paper). John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Professional, Reference and Trade Group, 605 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10158-0012. In the "SBA Hotline Answer Book" , Gustav Berle. author of "The "Small Business Information Handbook", and "The Do-It-Yourself Business Book", provides a compilation of the 200 most commonly asked questions of the SBA Hotline. The book is a valuable guide offering information, references, and data from inside the U.S. Small Business Administration. For quick, easy reference, all questions are alphabetized by business topic, and cross-referenced in a question-and-answer format. The author addresses a wide variety of small business concerns--including subcontracting, market research, finding loan sources, franchising, legal matters, mail order, quality control, and other pertinent topics. Also included is an appendix featuring listings of SBA field offices, SCORE offices, SBICs, minority business development centers, and much more. The information and advice presented in the "SBA Hotline Answer Book" comes from top experts, and all answers are checked against the latest SBA and government information and scrutinized by government experts to ensure accuracy and timeliness. From selecting the right software for accounting purposes to advertising a small business, the information supplied by the "SBA "Hotline Answer Book will prove a valuable resource to both the novice and experienced small business entrepreneurs. ----------- RESEARCH AND GHOSTWRITING ----------- Experienced library assistant will research any topic--fiction or non-fiction. Also ghostwriting--previously sold work includes "how-to" reports, self-help reports, and technical reports and manuals. Meets every deadline. Reasonable rates. Free Estimate. Contact Jerry W. Simpson, 101 Eastview Drive, Jackson, OH 45640-2053; (614) 286-2803.