Head First JavaScript

Product Description

So you're ready to make the leap from writing HTML and CSS web pages to creating dynamic web applications. You want to take your web skills to the next level. And you're finally ready to add "programmer" to the resume. It sounds like you're ready to learn the Web's hottest programming language: JavaScript. Head First JavaScript is your ticket to going beyond copying and pasting the code from someone else's web site, and writing your own interactive web pages.

With Head First JavaScript, you learn:

* The basics of programming, from variables to types to looping
* How the web browser runs your code, and how you can talk to the browser with your code
* Why you'll never have to worry about casting, overloading, or polymorphism when you're writing JavaScript code
* How to use the Document Object Model to change your web pages without making your users click buttons

If you've ever read a Head First book, you know what to expect -- a visually rich format designed for the way your brain works. Head First JavaScript is no exception. It starts where HTML and CSS leave off, and takes you through your first program into more complex programming concepts -- like working directly with the web browser's object model and writing code that works on all modern browsers.

Don't be intimidated if you've never written a line of code before! In typical Head First style, Head First JavaScript doesn't skip steps, and we're not interested in having you cut and paste code. You'll learn JavaScript, understand it, and have a blast along the way. So get ready... dynamic and exciting web pages are just pages away.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #9558 in Books
* Published on: 2008-01-11
* Format: Illustrated
* Original language: English
* Number of items: 1
* Binding: Paperback
* 650 pages


Editorial Reviews

About the Author
Michael Morrison is a writer, developer, toy inventor, and author of a variety of books covering topics such as Java, Web scripting, game development, and mobile devices. Some of Michael's notable writing projects include JavaScript Bible, 6th Edition (Wiley, 2006),Teach Yourself HTML and CSS in 24 Hours, 7th Edition (Sams Publishing, 2005), Beginning Mobile Phone Game Programming (Sams Publishing, 2004) and Java Unleashed (Sams Publishing, 1997). Michael is the intructor of several Web-based courses, including DigitalThink's Introduction to Java 2 series, JavaBeans for Programmers series, and Win32 Programming series (www.digitalthink.com).

In addition to his primary profession as a writer and technical consultant, Michael is the founder of Stalefish Labs (www.stalefishlabs.com), an entertainment company specializing in games, toys, and interactive media. When not glued to his computer, skateboarding, playing hockey, or watching movies with his wife, Masheed, Michael enjoys hanging out by his koi pond.
Customer Reviews

Head First Javascript1
If you are expecting the same detailed, coherent, basics-to-details approach that has been so successful in other Head First publications, forget it. It's as if this book's authorship was outsourced to someone who is unaware of what has made Head First one of the premier names in technical education. Poor overview of basic concepts, rambling examples, confusing diagrams, etc. I own at least five other Head First publications and this one it not even close to them. Spend you money elsewhere.

Good starting place... 3
This is a good "first book" on JavaScript. It's not nearly as good as the HF Java books, which clearly are the forte of the whole series. I have moved on to a more advanced JS book, but I felt this one really was a useful introduction that definitely made me feel better about wading in deeper. If you are looking for a decent kickboard and doggy paddle type of book that will keep you interested (and the rhino book can induce a coma), it's a good one. You'll get some DOM manipulation examples, basic form validation, and a handy introduction to object oriented JavaScript. I'm only giving it three stars because it's not one stop shopping, you will want to follow up with a more advanced book immediately after.

Easy to follow and good condition5
For the JavaScript beginner this was an easy to follow book with good exercises and explanations relating to things us non-computer geeks will recognize. The book also arrived on time and in excellent condition.