If you prefer to create works of art on your PC and don't have the cash to splash on Photoshop then the Gimp is your app of choice.

Gimp is an open-source photo/art manipulation package that's totally free. It's incredibly powerful but has a learning curve that's as steep as the north face of the Eiger.

Beginning Gimp by Akkana Peck (Apress; £39.49) is now in its third edition - which tells you everything you should know about its usefulness.

Assuming no prior knowledge, the author guides you gently by the hand through the Gimp interface and t6hrough its various features.

It's not cheap at nearly £40 but you got the software for free and this book will help you unlock its real power. Highly recommended.