Microsoft Windows XP and Vista has a very basic text to speech program built in

You can access it by going to the Control Panel - selecting the Speech icon and type in the box to test the speech

However this is very limited and the program below allows you to Highlight any text (in most programs) and press Play (or Ctrl+F9) to read aloud what you have highlighted.  And it's free!

Installation:

1. Click the button below to download the program (save it onto your desktop)

Download Free NaturalReader 2008

2. Double click the file on called standardsetup.exe to install

How to Use it 

To use the reader all you need to do is this:

Before you start make sure the sound or speakers for your computer are turned on

Run the program Free NaturalReader 2008.  The first time you use it click the button bottom Right (Go to Miniboard).

Now highlight the text you want your computer to read out aloud and click the Play button on the miniboard.

Tip: Instead of clicking the play button you can use the following Hot Keys:

Ctrl + F9 = Play/Pause

Ctrl + F11 = Stop Reading