Review of JavaScript for Dummies (Paperback)

I tried to get through this book several times and kept giving up. I couldn't figure out why I was having such a hard time with learning JavaScript. I've learned other languages on my own. Therefore, why was it so hard to get a handle on the concepts of Javascript? I mean, this book is supposed to be for dummies like me, right? However, after my latest attempt to read this book and after reading some of the reviews on this site, I realize it's not me, it's the book. First off, the author fails to provide a context for JavaScript. She just launches into coding. There's no answer to the question "why?" A better approach would be to show a sample web page that uses JavaScript and then explain how the JavaScript accomplishes the end result. Then, explain the advantages of JavaScript over other possible solutions. Also, the author tries much to hard to make cutesy little jokes and puns and they get really annoying really fast. I don't think it's much of an exaggeration to say that she tries to make a joke in every other paragraph.I believe another review on this site recommends Thau's "Book of JavaScript." And, I agree with that recommendation. His book is just about everything this one isn't. It provides sample and context for the explanation of JavaScript. There is a light-hearted tone to the writing, which makes the reading of a technical topic easier. But, he doesn't go overboard with the cutesy puns and quips. So, if you want a beginner's guide to JavaScript, avoid this book. Try "Book of JavaScript" by Thau instead.

Product Description

• Responding to reader feedback, the author has thoroughly revamped the book with more step-by-step coverage of JavaScript basics, an exclusive focus on Internet Explorer, and many complete sample scripts
• Updated to cover JavaScript 1.5, the latest release of this popular Web scripting language
• Using lots of examples, including a sample working Web site, the book shows how to create dynamic and interactive pages, build entire sites, and automate pages

From the Publisher
JavaScript For Dummies, 3rd edition:

Explains JavaScript and how it differs from java, HTML, and other Webprogramming tools

Describes what users can do with JavaScript that they can't do withHTML

Outlines how JavaScript, the platform-independent scripting language,works with the latest versions of Netscape Navigator 5 and MicrosoftInternet Explorer 5.5

Includes an important overview of Object-Oriented Concepts and theJavaScript language

Shows users how to "team up" JavaScript with Java, C++, OpenDoc, andCommon Gateway Interface (CGI) to create powerful multimediaapplications

Describes how to build a quickie Web page using HTML tags

Shows users how to create a Java applet and run the applet from theWeb page

Covers JavaScript's forms so users can easily enter data and receivefeedback

Guides users as they write and debug their own JavaScript programs

BONUS CD-ROM INCLUDES:

Hot utility and sample programs, including Dreamweaver demo version,SurfMap JavaScript, Joust, NetObjects ScriptBuilder 3 trial version,Allaire HomeSite 4.5 trial version, Ant Tools Demo 3, ArtBeats WebTools, BBEdit 4.5.1, HTML WebWeaver Lite, Paint Shop Pro 5 demo, andmore!--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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