Aviation: A 20th Century Epic is more than just an aviationhistory book reproduced on CD-ROM--it combines an aviation encyclopediawith videos, photos, stories, and interactive reference material. Thetechnical information is of sufficient depth to be of interest to aqualified pilot, but it is presented in an interactive way so as to beaccessible and enjoyable to nonpilots at the same time. Packed full ofvideos and photos of significant events in aviation history andnumerous aircraft and airline liveries, this CD-ROM is for you ifyou're interested in general, civil, or military aviation in any way.

The navigation structure of the package takes some getting used to,although links are often available from one topic to other relatedmaterials within the CD-ROM, and you have the option of furtherexploration if the overview of the subject yields a particularinterest. A strong search facility allows users to look up theirfavorite topics or aircraft, and it is a straightforward process toprint or export some brief background information and a line drawing.The package also links to the Internet, allowing users access to alarge number of links to other aviation Web sites.--MatthewAbbott