Message from Dean - May 8th 2007

I am currently testing out a new version of the APF Bridge Component - If you notice any errors within this demo store please drop me a line.

Binding: Paperback
Dewey Decimal Number: 005.133
EAN: 9780596527747
Format: Illustrated
ISBN: 0596527748
Label: O'Reilly Media, Inc.
Manufacturer: O'Reilly Media, Inc.
Number Of Items: 1
Number Of Pages: 650
Publication Date: January 11, 2008
Publisher: O'Reilly Media, Inc.
Studio: O'Reilly Media, Inc.

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Editorial Review:

Product Description:
So you're ready to make the leap from writing HTML and CSS web pages to creating dynamic web applications. You want to take your web skills to the next level. And you're finally ready to add "programmer" to the resume. It sounds like you're ready to learn the Web's hottest programming language: JavaScript. Head First JavaScript is your ticket to going beyond copying and pasting the code from someone else's web site, and writing your own interactive web pages.

With Head First JavaScript, you learn:

• The basics of programming, from variables to types to looping
• How the web browser runs your code, and how you can talk to the browser with your code
• Why you'll never have to worry about casting, overloading, or polymorphism when you're writing JavaScript code
• How to use the Document Object Model to change your web pages without making your users click buttons

If you've ever read a Head First book, you know what to expect -- a visually rich format designed for the way your brain works. Head First JavaScript is no exception. It starts where HTML and CSS leave off, and takes you through your first program into more complex programming concepts -- like working directly with the web browser's object model and writing code that works on all modern browsers.

Don't be intimidated if you've never written a line of code before! In typical Head First style, Head First JavaScript doesn't skip steps, and we're not interested in having you cut and paste code. You'll learn JavaScript, understand it, and have a blast along the way. So get ready... dynamic and exciting web pages are just pages away.




Rating: - A great way to learn JavaScript
I knew a tiny bit of JavaScript going into this book, so I was a little worried it would be too elementary. And it does spend a fair amount of time covering programming basics, but it ended up being a good refresher in that regard. What really makes the book shine are the practical topics such as validating form data and debugging JavaScript. I also finally understand what the DOM is and how to use it.

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Rating: - Head First HTML/CSS Fans Beware
I thought the J Phillips review said it all. My difference with Phillips is that I do appreciate the approach (as stated by Head First), annoying as it can be. As a satisfied customer of HF HTML/CSS, and after some frustrating attempts to learn PHP, I took what I thought was a logical step and ordered Head First Javascript and pre-ordered the soon to be released HF PHP/MYSQL. I found the first chapter fair, not good, but what might be expected with the HF method. In then I got to chapter two.

Phillips wrote:

"Another hugely important element of learning to program from a book is the act of following and typing examples on your own computer. You simply cannot expect to absorb the syntax, style and structure of programming without feeling it "under your own fingers" so to speak. This seems like a no-brainer. The problem with this book is, you're never actually sure when you're supposed to be entering code yourself, and the author gives you no clear indication of ... Read More

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Rating: - Head First Javascript
If you are expecting the same detailed, coherent, basics-to-details approach that has been so successful in other Head First publications, forget it. It's as if this book's authorship was outsourced to someone who is unaware of what has made Head First one of the premier names in technical education. Poor overview of basic concepts, rambling examples, confusing diagrams, etc. I own at least five other Head First publications and this one it not even close to them. Spend you money elsewhere.

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Rating: - Good starting place...
This is a good "first book" on JavaScript. It's not nearly as good as the HF Java books, which clearly are the forte of the whole series. I have moved on to a more advanced JS book, but I felt this one really was a useful introduction that definitely made me feel better about wading in deeper. If you are looking for a decent kickboard and doggy paddle type of book that will keep you interested (and the rhino book can induce a coma), it's a good one. You'll get some DOM manipulation examples, basic form validation, and a handy introduction to object oriented JavaScript. I'm only giving it three stars because it's not one stop shopping, you will want to follow up with a more advanced book immediately after.

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Rating: - Easy to follow and good condition
For the JavaScript beginner this was an easy to follow book with good exercises and explanations relating to things us non-computer geeks will recognize. The book also arrived on time and in excellent condition.

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