"If you haven't used Linux before, are new to Ubuntu, or would
like a quick update on the latest in open source advancements for
the desktop, then The Official Ubuntu Book is a great place to
start. Authored by a group of some of the most experienced open
source administrators and developers, this 400-page user guide
details everything you need to know about how to make the most of
your Ubuntu, Kubuntu (Ubuntu with KDE), and Xubuntu (Ubuntu with
Xfce) computer.
"Available for standard PCs, more advanced and current 64-bit
computers, as well as for the ARM platform, typically found in cell
phones and smaller devices, and this book details all of them. The
first chapter discusses the basic philosophy, design goals, and
background on open source and Linux, and the role that it plays
with Ubuntu. More experienced users would probably skim or skip
entirely these first few pages.
"The second chapter takes the reader through downloading and
installation from DVD or USB key. Installation is a breeze, and
this book takes the administrator through every step – disk
partitioning, dual booting with other operating systems, and
setting up basic networking."