It states "Why has Linux never taken off? Simple; it's terribly easy to set up if you have a BSc or BTech degree ...."
As far as using GNU/Linux is concerned, my wife is doing fine with a Debian GNU/Linux desktop at home. I'm wondering if she can install Debian on the computer on her own, but it's worth giving a shot. I'll give her the CDs and see how it works out.
On the other side, I doubt she'd be able to install Windows on her own either. :-)
Rishi