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Learning XML
Author: Erik T. Ray
Pages: 368
Publisher: O'Reilly & Associates
ISBN: 0-596-00046-4
Review Date: 25 Feb, 2003
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Reviewed by Guy Black
Learning XML is a good general introduction to XML. It provides a conceptual framework for XML, but is too basic for experienced programmers or persons already familiar with most XML concepts. If you are looking for in-depth technical manual for XML, look elsewhere. The title fits the book perfectly.
The text is organized logically, progressing from concept to concept in a
hierarchical flow that makes sense. Also, at least in the early chapters, the
book does not get bogged down in trivial details, focusing instead on illustrating concepts in a straightforward manner. The author tells the reader about the principles that really matter, and lets the reader look elsewhere for technical information.
However, the books turns into more of a technical reference manual in some of
the later chapters, and somewhat loses its focus, probably because of the volume of information that the author wants to convey, but realizes he cannot cover in a tutorial without dramatically expanding the length of the book.
Sadly, the book lacks certain concepts that should have been included to help a beginner. For example, Chapter 3 does not discuss the practical application of XML linking. Chapter 5 omits any explanation of tables or lists.
Despite its shortcomings, Learning XML is an indispensable learning tool for
any serious web designer or developer, one of the better O'Reilly books in print.
Rated 9 out of 10.
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