While the official camera manual is essential for referencing the functions it does little to explain how to use the camera. This is the second Sony guide I have bought from the same author. I have rated this as 4 stars as there are some area that are not covered. Unfortunately these include some of the more complex functions that need the most explaining. Otherwise this is a good beginners guide. Most people will find something in this book that they didn't know about. Plenty of pictures and illustrations.