The next version of the Official Ubuntu Book is coming out in time for Ubuntu 8.04 (Hardy Heron) and we’re looking for contributions to give the book a community “touch.” As with previous releases, the book will contain a “recipes” chapter of community submitted how-tos and other content. Topics in the 2nd edition include:

• My DVD won’t play
• My remote control won’t work
• How to bake Ubuntu bread
• and much more

This time around, recipes are needed specifically for the newer Ubuntu derivatives, such as Gobuntu, Mythbuntu and others. Recipes for Kubuntu, Xubuntu and Edubuntu are still needed as well.

If you want to submit a recipe or ask a question, email Corey Burger.

The first alpha release of the next version of Ubuntu, Hardy Heron, has been released. This is the first in a series of alpha and beta releases that will eventually lead to the final Ubuntu 8.04 in April of next year. This release brings a lot of new and updated packages from Debian as well as the latest X.org 7.3. You can read the full release announcement, see the release notes or download it. Versions of Kubuntu, Edubuntu, Xubuntu, Ubuntu JeOS, Gobuntu and Ubuntu Studio have also been released.