New Perspectives on JavaScript, Comprehensive (New Perspectives...

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 816 pages
• Published by: Course Technology
• Edition: 1st Edition September 14, 2005
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0619267976
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0619267971
• Book Dimensions: 10.6 x 8.4 x 1.1 inches
• Weighs: 3.6 pounds

Product Review
“I just have to say that I wish that all of my textbooks were written in the style of the New Perspectives series. I am using these titles for all of the courses that I teach that have a book available. As a teacher, I must admit that I need to “get a life,” as Patrick Carey is my textbook hero.” — Diana Kokoska, University of Maine at Augusta

Product Description
This book uses a practical, step-by-step approach to provide comprehensive instruction on basic to advanced JavaScript concepts. Author Patrick Carey’s fluid writing style and thorough explanations make even the most complex topics easy for beginners to understand and apply. With this book, users will be well on their way to create impressive web sites featuring animated text, image rollovers, pull-down menus, and drag and drop menus.

Reader Reviews
This book says Copyright 2006, and looks like it was released in late 2005. However, judging by the discussions on browsers and the lack of any mention of the latest uses of Javascript (Web 2.0, Ajax, etc) this book seems more like it was written in 2003. It mentions version 4 browsers all over the book. Makes no mention of Firefox or Safari, and does not discuss versions of IE and Netscape that were out even in 2005. The Chapters, called Tutorials, are overall pretty good at explaining the topics. However, there are at times where they aren't really explaining "why" you're doing something, just showing you how to do it. This approach is not very educational. Another complaint was in the wasted half chapter on using "filters" that only work in IE. I'm taking a class that is using the book. After going over these topics, the instructor took a vote on how many (out of thirty people) found these IE only parts helpful...about 3 people thought so. Most people, me included, felt it was a waste of time. Most of the IE filters can be done with other technologies that are cross-browser compatible, making it pretty bad practice to use them at all. So, here, the author just wasted space - and class time. I can't compare this to any other Javascript books, but I can compare it to there computer books. It's just OK. I'm sure there are better books out there that cover more timely topics, include discussions of the latest browsers (even for 2005!), don't waste time on teaching proprietary technologies (IE filters), and cover topics that explains more of the "whys" rather that just "hows". Comment | | (Report this)