A bold quote, and one I have to say I can't claim it as mine.

This comes from Sams Publishing, and I have to say, the book does do exactly what it says on the cover (the back cover that is)

"In just 24 lessons of one hour or less, you will be able to install and configure Microsoft Windows Server 2008 and its various services for any size network. Using a straightforward, step-by-step approach, each lesson builds on the previous ones, enabling you to learn the essentials of Windows Server® 2008 from the ground up."

The book cover the basics of Windows Server 2008, using Standard edition as it's core for the step-by-steps, it walks through the key components to get anyone up and running. Aimed at anyone moving to Windows from an earlier version or new to Windows Server 2008, the lessons progress in the order you would go through. The 24 individual chapters are broken down into 4 main parts. These cover Installation and Configuration of a server up to the point where you have you server running. The next two parts cover Networking and Resources, these together set you on the road allowing access to your server. All the usual suspects are here, file and share permissions, TCP/IP, DNS, printing as well as Group Policy and NAP. The advanced part covers the network services, WINS, Routing, Remote Access and Terminal Services.

Once you've made it through these 3 parts you've completed 20 of the 24 hours and the finishing line is in sight. The last 4 hours cover security, IIS 7.0 and monitoring and tuning, so a nice gentle finish.

The 24 hour series are good for the audience they aim at. This is a good training guide for people coming in who need to get familiar with the main concepts. Given a DVD with the software and Virtual PC, they can easily do the exercises within that controlled environment.

If you are looking for a reference book for Windows Server 2008 however, this will not meet your needs. Look at the Administrator Companion from MS Press, or the Complete Reference from Pearson Technology Group