Data transfer from Mac to PC

Hi, I'm trying to perform a fresh install of the OS for a friends Macbook using the original CD that came with the computer. The Macbook will not boot into safe mode or single user mode or anything, and i just would like to back up her data to my pc. How would i go about doing that if the Mac will not boot?

Get an external HD enclosure and pull the old HD and install it in the enclosure. They can be had for as low as $10 from newegg.

Actually, I just re-read your post. Windows will not read HFS+ formatted disks (the format that Macs use) without special software.

Yeah that's what I thought, I was going to use a SATA to USB bridge to back up the data but do you have any programs you recommend?