DHTML Utopia (Book Review)
Over the Christmas break I picked up a copy of Stuart Langridge’s DHTML Utopia: Modern Web Design Using JavaScript and DOM. The first thing I’d say is this is probably less for the beginning JavaScripter and probably for someone who’s just a little invested already. Intermediate level programmers would be fine. I did find Stuart’s book a little harder going than Jeremy Keith’s books but in fairness I think Jeremy aimed for that novice level of introduction to the subject whereas Stuart dove a bit deeper with his examples. Sometimes Stuart’s code left me scratching my head…
Recently I read an interview or the introduction to a design book and the writer had said he had a computer science background but whatever programmers have he was lacking it. I’m probably in the same boat. The level of abstract thinking required of programmers isn’t what my lazy head thrives on for breakfast. I get by but only by determination and staying up late (as opposed to pure programming talent).
So it was probably also a little drier than I’d have liked (as programming books can be dry at the best of times). But all of that being said this book has a lot of information in it for the budding DOM programmer and it will spend a few years on my shelf as a reference book. I’d suggest reading Jeremy’s DOM Scripting and then Bulletproof Ajax followed by DHTML Utopia if you’re concerned with any learning curves.
This is a value book to get your hands on so don’t be put off by my struggle with motivation on this one. I had just come out of reading two of Jeremy’s books and have to admit three JavaScript books in a row was pushing the envelope. Nevertheless I learned new ideas from all three. That’s where its worth every penny.
