changing struts

Well, I don't have a Jetta, but I have a 1987 Fox(same thing, kinda). Anyways, I was wondering how hard/easy it is to change struts. Do I need some kind of puller, cause in a book I have, it says I take the shocks out with it. Now, don't the shocks have to stay compressed, of course they do.
I just want to make sure I am doing this right and not going to injure myself severely.
Any advice on how to do this would be appreciated. thanks
I know I need a spring compressor to do this, but on a scale of 1-10, how hard is this job?
One last question, when replacing rear struts, do I HAVE to replace both of them or is just changing one good enough?

Rent the tools at Kragen right? Go see the compressor they offer. The hard part getting the upper mounts loosened. Check to see if you can loosen them on your own before you get the compressor.

it should only take 20-30 mins a side.

I'd suggest getting a Bentley manual to help with these little easy fixes.

Mike.