Hi,
Here are a couple of options you could try.
1. One possible way to try and retrieve your files from a non-booting drive is to follow the process detailed in the link below. The Ubuntu operating system CD you create can run from the CD alone ( ie it doesn't have to install on the Hard Drive ) and I've often found it to be successful in retrieving data even from a failing Hard Drive. When you've created the CD, follow the instructions and see if you can back up your existing files.
2. Another option would be to remove the HDD, place it in an external caddy - an example is on the link below - connect this to another PC and see if you can access your files.
Regards,
DP-K