Head First HTML with CSS & XHTML (Head First)

Ajax in Action

Head First Design Patterns

Pragmatic Ajax : A Web 2.0 Primer

Head First Java, 2nd Edition

Web Programming

Head Rush Ajax

Format: Paperback
Author: Brett McLaughlin
ReleaseDate: 01 March, 2006
Publisher: O'Reilly Media
Rating:

Know your Javascript
It focuses on redundancy - metacognition and such. This book takes a unique approach to learning. I would recommend getting your Javascript and PHP down cold before moving into Ajax. That was my drawback. I give the book four stars because I realize the information is presented well, although some may find its approach a little too "dumbed down". I just wasn't ready for it when I read it. You may consider checking out Sitepoints Javascript Anthology if you are an inexperienced client side scripter. Also, check out Larry Ulman's PHP books. . . It will help!!!.

Good Overview and Introduction
Their techniques for learning and remembering the material are sound and moderately useful. As my first HeadRush book, I was impressed. It's been a while (nearly a year) since the last time I've programmed and this book was able to quickly get me back into the mindset. Although it definitely leaves a certain something to be yearned for from an advanced programmer, this book is good for exactly what it says: A jumpstart into the language and style and an overview of why and when to use AJAX. This book is good for people who have at least some familiarity with scripting and web programming and are looking for a new technique to use.

A bit too basic


Unfortunately, this book is just a bit too basic, and after I was done with it, I still felt like I had only a very minor understanding of the subject matter. I like the concept of this line of books and for me they definately help me get off the ground with new programming techniques.

Cons:

-- The first two application examples are nearly identical, so if you understood the first chapter, you get very little out of going through the second one.

-- One chapter isn't even devoted to Ajax. It teaches you how to create a DOM only application. While it is a nice introduction to the DOM, I bought this book to learn Ajax and I would have much preferred another Ajax application example.

Pros:

-- At least I now am off the ground and should be able to understand more complex books.

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