Don’t believe what you read in the papers. The Internet isn’t about to revolutionize the way we have sex, but it’s already revolutionizing the way we shop,” writes Paul Simpson, the text editor of the recently published “Rough Guide to Shopping Online.” Though we’ve recommended the website, you’ll want to get your hands on the paper edition that is chocked with more than 1 700 Web addresses representing 63 types of products from arts to wine and spirits, complete with descriptions. Among the more interesting listings are: Weird Gifts (citymorguegiftshop.com), Contemporary Design (desaster.com), Bar & Bat Mitzvahs (jewish.co.uk). Most of the e-companies listed here are based in the UK and a few in the US which doesn’t pose the least problem given the worldwide nature of shopping on the Net. This 368-page handbook guides the reader through new procedure such as “the rules of shipping”... How to use credit cards without fear. How to buy cheaper from abroad. How to return stuff you don’t want. And, how to operate in the new world of Internet auctions, where you’ll find everything from a half-size papier-mâché donkey to a small island off Panama. www.roughguides.com
