Inability to load OS X 10.5.2

A friend bought me a used MacBook. When I turn it on a file folder with a question mark appears on screen. I tried loading the operating system discs that came with it, but I can't get beyond the page that asks me where to load the system. It is a blank box with no options to choose from. there is an options button at the bottom, but it is gray and doesn't function. I don't know what else to try. Is it something wrong with the discs I was given, or could they be the wrong discs? Or is there something wrong with the MacBook itself and should I return it? I am a complete computer idiot. I used one at my job, but the techies took care of all this kind of stuff. Help!

I think you need to find out if the used MacBook has a hard drive installed. Or, if it does, whether or not the drive is a good one. Sounds like from your description that either the drive is missing or it's dead.

Thank you responding. I noticed a note on the disc telling me to press the c key while loading. I tried it and it worked. Now the apple comes up and I have the screen with all the familiar applications. I figured out how to connect with the Internet . Now I am in the middle of trying to find out how to connect with my mailbox. If I'm not successful, I will ask for help again.

Again, thank you so much for giving me a hand!

dinosaur Lady