Test Driving Linux does give you a test drive. I found it to be a slightly bumpy road.
However, the book offers the opportunity to sample the program without making a total commitment. The author's style is very easy to read, almost as though he were talking to you.

BUMPS IN THE ROAD

On my initial attempt to load the disk, I found about 2/3 of the first window would be loaded and then the program would freeze. After four tries with the same results the program finally fully loaded.
After the first successful loading, subsequent attempts met no problems and loaded easily and quickly.

Curiosity would like the question answered, "What happened to have the program run correctly?"

CONNECTIONS

I have a wireless connection and the program did not recognize the card. The book states that it is somewhat common with wireless network adaptors, and suggests adding a separate card. Without the connection, a lot is lost in the performance of the operating system. The book does claim that you should have better results with a hard drive load.

SUGGESTIONS

Throughout the various chapters, different web sites are referred to for different reasons. I would like to see them all together and tabled with a one or two-word description for ease of reference.
I would also like to see more on trouble shooting and solving problems encountered when loading and running the program.

SUMMARY

Does Test Driving Linux deliver on what it promises? I would say yes, but could do better. My next upgrade will have a Linux installation.
August 10, 2005