Defining the guestbook layout using page templates requires a bit more effort than with the Form based layout, but it gives you full control over the appereance of the guestbook.

The problem with HTML is how the guestbook messages, so called dynamic content, can be added to the page. There are several different types of solutions to this problem, and Freebok uses one of the simpliest (yet powerful) method available.

Freebok uses a template engine called Velocity ( i ) for generating dynamic content. Velocity gives us the ability to add variables and simple commands to HTML pages. In practise you don't even have to know the meaning of the commands, but you can make the guestbook page layout with your favourite page editor, and cut and paste the required commands from the Cut and Paste ( i ) page. If you want to use the full potential of Velocity it's worthwhile to learn the commands it provides.