What people are saying

Visual Steps has received many customer reactions regarding the books and instructional materials that have been produced. Here is a small selection.

You can also read what customers are saying about our books at Amazon.com

“I am a senior who has been volunteer teaching other seniors how to use computers since 2002 when I retired from classroom teaching.
I am constantly reading computer books so that I can impart the latest knowledge to the seniors I teach.
I am delighted to read and use ideas from your Senior series of books. I am constantly asking our local library to purchase your books and I always encourage seniors whom I assist to go to the library and to sign out your books. Please tell the authors that they are doing an amazing job. I always look for your books in the neighboring libraries within our local area. When we go to Florida for four months, one of the first places I check out is the Library in our area to see if your books are there.
Keep up the great work for Seniors. I am a true believer in lifelong learning and I continually encourage seniors to do so, also.”
- Sheila McDermott

“Thank you! I am a senior computer instructor. I have been teaching seniors for over 10 years. I needed to catch up with the new operating system, Windows 7. I went to the library and found 3 books: Microsoft windows 7 simplified, Windows 7 for seniors, and your Windows 7 for seniors.
You can't compare the other two instruction books to yours; they were too complicated for seniors. However, your manual was superior, the other two failed the test. They were much to difficult for seniors. Need to look at your other manuals.”
- Sharon, Boston, MA

“I belong to an active computer club in the Hill Country of Texas. During several of our recent meetings the new OS (Operating System) Windows 7 has been discussed. At a current meeting several publications were presented to the group, one of them was "Windows 7 for SENIORS". The book is published by "Visual Steps" and provides a support website. I have used publications from this publisher in the past and found them to be very informative and cover the topics and shortcuts very well. It is the fastest way to become familiar with a new OS or other computer topic and because it is written for Seniors it has extra details provided. It is a fast and effective way to be updated and stay in tune with the times. These comments provided to you by an 81 year old senior that is trying to stay in the flow of things.”
- Ed W. Campbell, Independence, KS USA

The computer and the Internet are integral parts of the lives of our children. To be computer literate is an important and relevant to being literate in the skills of reading, writing, and arithmetic. That's why "Windows Vista And Internet For Children" is such a highly recommended and effective instruction manual for children ages 9 and older. Profusely illustrated throughout, "Windows Vista And Internet For Children" offers a wealth of practical and 'kid friendly' tips for searching the Internet, tips for utilizing Windows Vista, photo editing with Windows Photo Gallery, and instant messaging as part of social networking. Children will learn such basics as how to create and open folders, move, search and delete files, customize their computer desktop, add a gadget to a Windows Sidebar, participate in a video chat, deal with email, and so much more. "Windows Vista And Internet For Children" is very highly recommended and ideal for personal, school, and community library computer science reference collections for students.
"Children's Bookwatch" at The Midwest Book Review

"This is the newest addition to Studio Visual Steps’ series of “Computer Books for Seniors.” It is structured and written in the standardized Studio Visual Steps style, giving it a familiar feel for those who have used previous books in the series. The font type and size, however, are better for seniors, while each chapter follows a structured step-by-step format with labeled graphics. This title does assume the reader already has a good grasp of computers and the Internet. The list of “Thirteen Online Applications” includes only a few actual applications, the rest being popular websites or tools: Google Maps, Google Earth, Skype, RSS feeds, eBay, blogging (with Blogger), Facebook, Windows Live Hotmail, Windows Live Messenger, Windows Live Spaces, YouTube, MyPhotoAlbum, and Wikipedia. This book fills a noticeable gap in available books for computer-savvy seniors; recommended for all public libraries, especially those that serve a senior population."

- Carol Bean, from a review appearing in The Tech Static. Carol Bean is Computer Center Manager in the Palm Beach County Library System.

"As a late comer to the world of computers I find this range of self help books easy and informative, well illustrated and up to date."
- By Mr. J. A. Bentley

"The clear step by step information leaves other beginner books far behind. This one doesn't try to be clever and does not muddy the learning process with silly cartoons, words that aren't familiar, or excessive wordiness. The illustrations are top rate and they're used throughout the book. I recently was in a big bookstore and looked at many instruction books for computers. It's surprising how complicated those books are. Visual Steps books are simple and informative."
- Sholom Joshua "Rock Historian" (California)

"The visual steps books are the best computer instruction books I have ever seen.Far better than the Dummies books.These books are appropriate for anyone new to the world of computers not just seniors.The Visual Step books are written assuming the reader has no knowledge of computers and go step by step with absoloute clarity.If anyone is stuggling to master their computer they cannot afford to be without the Visual Step books.A great investment at a very modest price. "
- David Danks

"Book is excellent for a beginner. It takes you by the hand and leads you thru the whole system. Also a good value for the price. Would recommend for a beginner, and even a fairly good user as a reference. Love the book. "

"I recently got my first computer at age 88, with no knowledge about how to use it. I was fortunate enough to be introduced Studio Visual Steps Windows Vista for Seniors series. The presentation of these documents are outstanding for my needs. It has made use of the computer so much easier. You are to be complimented for this exceptional book series. I would highly recommend it for anyone in my category. Thanks again."
- Talmadge Liles, San Diego, California

"I would just like to say I have found my first Visual Steps book very informative and useful in using my new PC. I have rcommended it to friends as I truly think for a beginner it is the most helpful book on the market. Thank you."
- June Moor

"I recently ordered More Windows Vista for Seniors from Amazon to complement the two I already have: Windows Vista for Seniors and Internet and E-Mail for Seniors. Having not used a computer since 1985, I had much to learn when we purchased a computer last March. These books are easy to use, easy to understand, and start with good simple instructions on how to turn your computer on and off ... basic, but you need to know this. Print is easy to read, pictures are large, information is well-organized and tells you exactly what to do. My friends are impressed that I've been able to teach myself how to use the computer, and I'm thrilled to find such user-friendly books."
- By P. Monroe

"This series is very popular with seniors at my public library. The writers clearly understand the needs of their target audience. This book in particular is exceptionally well-written. The information is organized into meaningful sections and the book does not drown the reader in technical details that the readers do not need to know in order to accomplish their goals (i.e. surf the web and send & receive email messages)."
- Help for the Computer Shy - Brunswick, Maine

"I got this for my sister-in-law (age 52) who knew practially nothing about the internet or email. She loves it. She would pick a few things a day and learn to use them. I would say in as little as a week, she was quite good at what she was doing - e.g., attaching images to email messages. Like anything, as long as you're motivated to work at it, then this is ideal for the wanna be computer user."
- Cindy Brock

"When my uncle got his first computer at 80+ years of age, he asked where he could find the instruction manual. What he meant was, "Where is the book that tells me how to use the internet and how to use Windows?" I had to tell him that no such thing existed then. This book and the companion book on Windows are those books, and - even more miraculous - he is using them!
These books are basic, clear and easy to understand - good for anyone who needs to start at square one."
- Jane Anderson

"This is the second manual I have purchased from this publisher. I have found this one to be as informative and easy to follow as I expected."
- G. Holloway - Westbury, NY

“I have put my WW2 Army photos on to a DVD with narration and music (thanks to your book Photos, Video and Music with Windows Vista for SENIORS), Steven Spielberg would be very proud of me. I recommend your books to everyone I speak to who want to know more about computers. They are the best tutorial literature around today.”
- Henry Marks

"This is a very easy to understand book and if you have ever tried to read a computer manual you know what I mean . Instructions are very percise and they show you in pictures every step to take. I have learned all sorts of fun things to do on my computer from making my own cd's to making scrapbook pages of my grandchildren. I have purchased 3 books in their series and have been pleased with each one. even though I am a 60 year old senior I would certainly recomend it for any age computer user. "
- oldies listener

"I just got a new computer with Vista on it. Since I'm a "senior" I figured that this book was "made just for me"! It's a wonderful reference source. I've used it numerous times now and the answers have always been easy to understand. Technology has moved forward .. but for this retired person, Vista was a little beyond my technological know-how but this book helped a lot. I highly recommend it for anyone having trouble with the new Vista system."
- By D. Townsend (Hollywood, Maryland)

"I have bought several books on digi photog and a lot say they give you step by step instructions, but not like this one. They not only tell you step by step, but show you exactly what it should look like on your computer so you know that you are doing it right. This book is for anyone of any age who is intersted in the subject. This should be the first book on the subject you should buy if you are a newbee."
- Jennifer D. Desrochers

"This is a great book! I teach PC/Digital Camera classes in an adult ed setting and see this as a breakthrough volume. I'm working at convincing management to incorporate this as a required text/course.

A key is that it INCLUDES a powerful editing software program. In classes, we use the SW that is resident on the lab PC's, so students are sent home to practice with either an unrelated product, or they are off to the store to face the dozens of choices for purchase at up to $100.

Too bad the cover and title cater to seniors. This book is valuable for any one interested in the subject of digital imagery, not just Geezers. Hopefully however, that cover will interest more seniors who should buy this book and plod, yes plod, through it because learning something new ain't always easy, at any age.

This book and the included Arcsoft program will guide users through very basic and simple editing functions like cropping and brightening their treasured images--alone worth the purchase price. But, what's surprising to me is the fact that some of the most advanced aspects of editing are covered, like cloning and the use of layers which are true pro-level features.

Purchasing a "latest" comparable entry level program like "Photoshop Elements", or "Paint Shop Pro" at around $90, plus an explanatory step-by-step book at about $30, would be overkill when this all-in-one solution is available for under $20!

Perseverance is required for anyone learning something new and potentially complex, but this book should be considered by anyone of any age group."

"I find this book extraordinarily useful in two respects: it includes the software that it is teaching, and the lessons are carefully designed to lead the ignorant learner through unfamiliar processes. Terms are defined, and ample opportunity is given for practice, to achieve good results.
A prime volume for someone who wants to know something about digital photo editing. NOT a book or application that someone who either already has another, more powerful application, or for those who have no patience with reading directions."

"Hi there Addo,
My wife and I have recently purchased your book on the above subject and felt we should congratulate you on such an excellent product. We have been working through the chapters and are amazed at the accuracy and clearness of the instructions which makes a very welcome change as most IT manuals usually drive us mad. Even the installation disc ran first time! As digital photography is our latest hobby we can't wait to put your lessons into practice. Thank you once again."

"I thought photo-editing on the computer was something only for the truly ambitious! After I picked up your book and gave it try, I am pleased to admit that I feel like I am an "almost expert". Thanks Addo!"

You can also read what customers are saying about this book at Amazon.com

"I am using Windows XP for seniors. I found it far superior and clearer than any other book I looked at."
- I.

"For myself and those before me that have purchased these 'FOR SENIOR.....' books. We all have a knack of knowing a 'good thing' when we see it! I purchased 'Windows XP and More Windows XP' SENIORS. I also bought Windows XP For Dummies which is good, a little more technical and I started hating the () = COVERED IN CHAPTER. So you have to mark where you are just to find info that is somewhere else in the book. SENIOR books: large print, pictures showing 'how to', little tests, to check comprehension, with page numbers to locate the answer if you don't remember... No matter what your age, if you can read and want to get started (or refresh) on a computer, you will not go wrong with these ‘Senior’ books. To whatever age..."
- M. Harding

"Windows XP for Seniors is a "must have" even if you are not a senior. It is very easy to follow and covers almost every facet of computer know-how, except the most sophisticated. I couldn't do without it!"
- B. Bass

"I was given the XP Book for Seniors. I have never seen such a detailed book that isn't written too far above our heads (techie talk). I teach beginning computers at a local community center and show my book to each student and recommend they get it. Thanks for all your hard work."
- Shirley Arp

"I highly recommend this book to anyone who is learning computer. I am impressed at the method of instruction and the testing follow up. This is a "win-win" book."
- S. Dikoff

"Hello,
I work with a team of volunteer computer instructors at the Seniors Association in Kingston, Canada. Our courses cover basic home computing and digital photography. Most of our students are older people who didn't have a chance to learn about computers when they were younger. (Well... let's be honest, none of us oldies did!) They come to our classroom motivated to learn, but sometimes anxious as well, fearing it will be too difficult. Often they've been buffaloed by the children in their families, whose easy familiarity with consumer electronics is unimaginable to them.

For years we've been looking for supportive textbooks that match this style of teaching. When Addo Stuur's books were published in Canada last year (2005), we felt we had found what we needed. We now use Windows XP for Seniors in our beginning courses, mainly as a source of homework assignments. We cover each topic in class, hands-on. Then, when the students get home, Addo takes them through the same topic, step by step, with a picture of the screen after each step.

He avoids mentioning extraneous facts not necessary to the reader's immediate success. He also recognizes that everyone will forget things as they progress, so the books contain reminders of where to go to re-read things that might have slipped from memory. As well, each chapter tells you what to do if anything doesn't work as you expect.

There are other pictorial teach-yourself books that look PRETTIER than this one. They're printed in colour and therefore they cost more. But for beginners who are seniors, I can confidently give a confident recommendation for "Windows XP for Seniors."
- B. Martin, computer and photography instructor in Kingston, Ontario, Canada

"I bought this for my father without actually seeing the book and he thinks it's great! He has been dabbling with a computer for a year and trying to wade through manuals, help books, etc. and was always frustrated. He loves this book, says it answers all his questions, not like other beginner books that assume you know computer basics. This is for the non computer literate very beginner, especially older adults. He says it's written in a way he can understand."
- By Donna

"I have been asked to teach a class for the non-computer folks at my retirement community. I purchased this book for each member of the class, and plan to use each chapter for a specific class session. It has very straightforward explanations of the basic computer operations and Windows XP, fully illustrated. I think it will be perfect to help me guide some seniors to computer literacy."
- Harmon

"I highly recommend this book to anyone who is learning computer. I am impressed at the method of instruction and the testing follow up. This is a "win-win" book."
- Sharon Dikoff

"Having learned how to open my desk top and go to E-mail msges, I hit a block. Being frustrated to learn more, visited Barnes and Noble, found this beginners book for Windows XP for Seniors and am now learning how to maneuver with disk cleanup, defrag, send holiday cards etc. etc. It's wonderfully simple. I'm 85 years old and, now, pretty active into my computer. When I conquer Word Pad, I'll buy the next edition.
Thank you for opening a new world to me."

"It's about time
Absolutly the BEST. I would start any newcomer to computers with this book even non seniors. This has been the only book with laymens language. I've been waiting a long time for someone to write a step-by-step book. Thank you so much Addo."
- Elizabeth, a computer struggler

"Absolutely the best and easiest 'how to' book for the generation who is technically challenged. On second thought, this book is the best for anyone. Simple, precise, and foolproof!"
- L. Slitzan, a nurse practitioner

"I am very pleased with your book and the lessons. Before working through your book, I was so afraid of breaking something on the computer! My fear of the computer and the internet have disappeared."

"This book is quite easy to use and contains a lot of useful information on Win XP. I am 79 years old and I found it very helpful in learning how to use Win XP. "
- T.Davidson

"The whole series of Addo Stuur books for Seniors is excellent because it goes the extra mile to reinforce each learning episode. The Visual Steps method allows a cross referencing which helps Seniors immensely to have backup. Tie in the screen shots with emphasis on the step at hand and large type and you have a first-class book. I have taught adults and now seniors for 18 years and I have most of the books out there including books for seniors--there is no doubt these are the best. I have been ordering them for my students and recommending them to my computer clubs and every senior I talk to who is technophobic and wants to learn!! I have purchased them all to use as a teaching tool and anxiously await the new one on Word in April of this year."
- M. Romain, Teacher

"Dear Addo,
I am a teacher and have been watching for decent instructions for seniors. For lack of books with screen captures and lucid instructions in larger print, I have been creating my own instruction pages. This has taken hours and hours as you well know. You can imagine how excited I was to finally find your books Addo. They do exactly what I have tried to do and even go several steps beyond with your Index on How Do I Do That Again? Then to follow it up with a website for testing and practice is excellent. So I have purchased the first two books from Amazon and I plan to purchase the third on More…and the fourth on the Photo program. My students are not ready for the photo program yet, but when they get ready, we will use your book. Meanwhile I am mentioning it to them and telling them how excited I am about the possibility of using the books in class. We do not have computers for hands on, but if I go over the class procedures and then they take the book home and try it themselves it will greatly improve how much they get out of it. When they return to class then I can check with them on what problems they had and reinforce the proper techniques. We do have a projector so it is a little better than a standard class of talking and no demonstration.

Thank You for these great books."

"Hello Addo,
I am one of the senior citizens who has come to enjoy working at the computer and surfing on the internet due to your excellent book. I wish it had been published a long time ago!"

"I'm teaching a class at the local UMaine Senior college. This book is BY FAR the best text for introducing seniors to the computer. The authors have thought thru the issues of elder learning and provided workable solutions for most of the problems many seniors have in learning tech subjects. The "Dummies" series book for seniors has much more info, but my seniors are overwhelmed by too much info. Stuur's book has the right amount. It may be a little too basic for people who have a good collection of basic skills already, but this comes with the territory. Some in my class have NEVER sat in front of a computer before. If we skip the absolute basics they'll be left behind (again!) The book is a great tool for the classroom. And when the students get home they have all the info in front of them again. Great for those that have short term memory problems."
- By J. P. Erdman (New England)