Best introductory computer book?

[tomcat]

I've been assigned the task of finding the best introductory computer book for my 18 year old German cousin. He speaks/reads English pretty well apparently. The book is supposed to cover a wide range of topics from computer fundamentals, hardware basics, networking, and programming. Basically something which would be interesting to an individual looking to get a good understanding of the broad topics of computer science.

I know its a challenging assignment. Do such books exist? Please share your wisdom!
Thanks in advance!

 

[Pex]

any of the "for idiots" books?

 

[tomcat]

I'm not sure that "for idiots" is exactly what I'm looking for. He is not computer illiterate. It's more that his relatives want to give him this book to make sure that he has a good understanding of the basics and fundamentals and not just stuff he's learned online. I don't necessarily agree with what they're trying to do, but that is none the less the task. Thanks for the suggestion though!