The Book

A handy electronic reference book, its chief selling points are the words 'Don't Panic' written in large friendly letters on the cover, and the fact it is cheaper than its closest competitor.

Its reporters travel the length and breadth of the Galaxy, drinking heavily, going to lots of parties and generally having a great time. Ford Prefect and Roosta are both reporters for the guide.

This life experience is then passed on via the SubEtha net to every copy of the guide, allowing galactic hitchhikers the opportunity to misinterpret the inaccurate copy and wind up being eaten by the Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal.

Much of the guide's content is plagiarised from the back of cereal packets, and some of it is just made up. Its most useful advice concerns towels.