Features
- Cover Type: Paperback with 860 pages
- Published by: Waite Group Press November 1, 1997
- Written in: English
- ISBN 10 Number: 1571691138
- ISBN 13 Number: 978-1571691132
-
Book Dimensions:
9 x 8 x 2.5 inches
- Weighs: 3.7 pounds
Product Review
Perl is an extremely powerful language that is used on thousands of Web servers for Common Gateway Interface (CGI) scripts, principally because of its unmatched text manipulation capabilities. However, mastering the syntax of Perl is legendarily difficult with its Unix legacy, which favors cryptic--though efficient--syntax. Jon Orwant's
Perl 5 Interactive Course is an great tutorial for learning the basics of Perl quickly. It lays a foundation and then builds on it to make you a Perl expert.
First, the book outlines the basics of creating and running Perl scripts. (Though this is a Unix-centered approach, the examples will run on Windows NT as well.) Early in the text, the author introduces variables, both scalar and arrays, and basic programming statements (such as conditional statements and looping). He presents the rudiments of using regular expressions and basic Perl metacharacters and commands for searching and replacing text in manageable increments. The author also does a good job of showing how Perl can work together effectively with other Unix commands, such as files and pipes, and operating features, such as processes.
The book is less successful at exposing the intricacies of object-oriented Perl (a difficult topic). However, it is good at explaining some of the pitfalls of Perl programming, including debugging. Other interesting chapters explain topics such as where Perl programming fits into the Internet and why Perl will likely continue to play an important role on the Web. Chapters throughout this book are short and sweet and include simple exercises so that readers can try out Perl on their own. Although no single book can make you into a Perl guru, this tutorial can start you on your way to becoming a competent Perl developer.
Product Description
The clear, step-by-step instructions in Perl 5 Interactive Course, Certified Edition, teach you how to develop sophisticated Net applications and Web sites using the flexible power of Perl. From simple tasks like writing loops and opening files to advanced topics such as networking, generating graphics, and linking Perl and C, these hands-on lessons show you how it's done.Throw your Internet connection into the mix and you'll have free access to the eZone, the innovative Web-based learning center from Waite Group Press. You'll get expert help from the pros, interactive quizzes for immediate feedback, dedicated discussion groups for interaction with other students, certification, and even optional continuing education units (for a nominal fee). This isn't just a book; it's a Web-based learning center.
- Provides the opportunity to earn 3 Continuing Education Units from Marquette University
- Updated edition covers the latest version of Perl
- Web-based components include online mentors to answer specific questions, interactive testing for immediate feedback, discussion groups for student interaction and more
- CD-ROM includes Microsoft Internet Explorer, the latest Perl source code and all the binaries needed to run Perl on any platform
Reader ReviewsI've read and use most of the Perl books out on the market today, but none comes close to getting you going well with Perl as does Jon Orwant's book. I still use it as a reference today, but it is the best any money can buy for learning Perl. I'm back buying another copy because I loaned mine to a friend and I miss it so much that I want to make sure I'll always have a copy handy. My old copy is so well worn that a fresh copy is enticing also. As for extras in the book: the quizzes are great for testing your understanding, and someone has done a great job at proofreading this book -- I don't know whether that person is at the Waite Group or is Jon himself, but I know that anytime I have questioned an answer, or a script, or anything in the book I have always found the book to be accurate on closer inspection. It is very much like the Camel Book in being authoritative -- what Jon says is Perl Gospel Truth - if I had to pick two Perl books, I'd pick this one for learning and the Camel Book for ultimate reference. Jon's book should be rated a 5 and a half star - this is the best that it ever gets!
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