Internet Cool Guide : A Savvy Guide to the Hottest Web Sites

Collects descriptions and addresses of web sites dealing with such issues as careers, dating, education, fashion, gambling, health, children, law, music, politics, religion, shopping, sports, and travel

Rula Razek compiled the Internet Cool Guide for the sort of person who likes to read The New York Times on Sunday. That kind of person--well educated, with a fair bit of discretionary income and diverse interests--will dig this directory's references to some of the best-maintained sites on the Web.

Capsule reviews can only say so much in 100 words or less, but it's likely you'll find a new site that will help you improve your health, make wise money decisions, and engage your interests. Scan the handful of pages about online privacy and search strategies, and then dive into the hundreds of pages of listings.

Internet Cool Guide is printed in full color. It's an unusual design choice that makes this book fun to look at, though you may find its stylish blue-on-white print a bit hard to read. A few errors clutter some Web addresses--a problem endemic to this kind of book--and the reviews rarely have anything critical to say (bad sites were just left out, apparently). It's a fine little book to give as a gift or to keep in the back of your desk drawer for midday Web meanderings. --David Wall

Topics covered: Interesting Web sites, particularly those that have to do with personal issues such as entertainment, fashion, health, investing, shopping, and hobbies.