"Linux Bible 2005 Edition
Christopher Negus
ISBN: 0-7645-7949-5
Paperback
850 pages
January 2005

Description
* Detailed installation instructions and step-by-step descriptions of key desktop and server components help new users get up and running immediately
* Descriptions of the various distributions from people in the Linux community help users zero in on the best Linux for their needs
* The perfect migration guide for Windows and Macintosh desktop users who want to switch to Linux, as well as for systems administrators who want to set up secure, fully functioning server systems
* Covers Linux embedded systems, firewalls, and routers plus desktops and servers
* Includes Fedora Core 3, Debian Linux, SUSE Linux, Knoppix, Gentoo Linux, Slackware Linux, Mandrake Linux, Damn Small Linux, and a Linux firewall and router on DVD"

Worth ordering or not?

You didn't mention a price, but if the book is well written, I'd buy it if for no other reason the saved time in downloads for all those distros. ;-) Seriously, it looks like a good tool from where I sit.
good luck.

Price will be $39.99, cheaper if purchased through discount retailer.

I was thinking same thing as far as # of distro's included.

Also, since I am a newbie-looking for some good hands on sources of info.

For that small amount, I'd say it's definately worth the purchase, and it never hurts to have a "hands on guide" when you run into troubles. The bonus, is all the distros, if you're learning, you could try them all and see what fits.
good luck.

I bought Negus' RH9 Bible when it came with FC1, it was invaluable: well written, well laid out and very informative imo.

I still use it on occasion even now that I am using Slack 10 because it has good explanations of much command line stuff.

I'd say go for it
mark