New to Linux

[Kelly Sapergia]

Hi,
    After hearing about Linux from my brother (I think he was using 
Ubuntu), I thought I'd give it a try on my laptop. For the moment, 
I'm interested in just using a live CD so I can go back to using 
Windows XP later.
    I've downloaded both Ubuntu and Oralux, and am just wondering if 
anyone can give me any hints on getting started using these systems? 
In particular, I'm wondering if there's a way to get a live CD to 
come up talking when the system loads? Also, do these variants of 
Linux support software speech? I ask because I don't have a hardware synth.
    Thanks for your help.


Yours Sincerely,
Kelly John Sapergia
Personal Website: http://www.ksapergia.net
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