Book Review: Head First Java (2nd Edition)

 
Feb 20, 2005

Head First Java (2nd Edition) Author: Kathy Sierra and Bert Bates
Review by Ryan Hartwich

This is not your ordinary Dummies book.... It's much longer and it isn't about a fluff subject.

This is not your ordinary O'Reilly book.... You will actually be able to read this, in bed, without passing out within minutes.

What sets this book apart from the typical techie "learn how to program X" book is the distinctive writing style and the liberal use of cartoon bubble text, clip art and corny lines. Think of this as a Dummies book on steroids (it is twice as thick). If you have a basic understanding of programming and would like to learn Java and Object Oriented Programming, this is a great read. It is entertaining and easy to read without being overly dry. It is NOT a reference book and if you already know OOP and Java you might prefer a standard O'Reilly tome. Likewise, if you despise the Dummies and Idiots book series (from other publishers), then this book is not for you.

While reading you should have scratch paper, pencil and maybe a computer to test the short programs on. On every few pages you'll find sample exercises and mini games to help you learn syntax and the finer details. Most of the time you will want to answer the questions to further your learning.

The 2nd edition is new and improved with additional chapters and corrections. I was slightly confused with the sparse instructions on installing and running your first class file but was able to figure it out using the web and tweaking the code. Each night I look forward to the next chapter and am saddened by my 1 a.m. sleepy eyes getting in the way.

I have been enjoying the whimsical nature of this book and appreciating its ability to teach a dry subject in an entertaining way.

Sample chapters for the book are available online at http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/hfjava2/.

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