Reviews for Java Software Solutions: International Version: Foundations of Program Design

1. Excellent book for beginners

   Rated 5 out of 5 stars, January 12th, 2010

   I also purchased this for my first year studying computer science at uni. It's an excellent book that teaches both the basics of Java and programming in general very well. The book is very easy to read and offers plenty of examples to demonstrate new concepts.
   
   Whether you're planning to read this from start to finish or just use it to dip into to back up lectures, this is a great book for those new to the language.

2. Good book, albeit a little on the basic side

   Rated 4 out of 5 stars, November 12th, 2009

   I purchased this book because it was a core text required for Uni. 90% of what is in this book is material I had already covered in previous Java programming courses. If you have a good foundation in Java programming, this book might be a little basic. Otherwise if you are new to programming in general this book will be a safe bet to get started in Java.

3. Easiest Java book

   Rated 5 out of 5 stars, May 12th, 2008

   When I first saw this book, I was surprised by how easy it looks. The first chapter gives a very simple introduction to computers and computing. Later chapters introduce Java programming at a very gentle pace, so the book is obviously aimed at the complete beginner. Even so, If you were to work your way through the book, you could learn the most important features of Java and start programming right away.
   
   I bought this book, because it has been a while since I programmed in Java and desperately needed a newer book, as the Java language changes very rapidly. Keyboard input use to be a painful experience in Java and in many books first appears near the end of the book. This book uses the scanner class which is much easier to use than any of the methods that I was familar with. It was for newer features of the language and the fact that it was simple that attracted me to it.
   
   As far as I can tell, this book is suitable for a first year at University for those studying Computer Science or similar courses. In fact I have investigated on the web and found that a number of UK universities use this text. It could also, in my opinion be used for a foundation year at University.
   
   Unlike many introductory books it does not tell you how to compile and run your programs. What it does provide you with is a CD with a number of Java IDEs and examples from the book. I have never before used a Java IDE, only being familiar with compiling at a DOS prompt. One of the IDEs I can recommend that is on the CD, but you can also download is jGRASP. This is by far the easiest to use. I didn't even need to use the manual to work out how to use it.
   
   In conclusion, this is a nice simple well-written book. It is perfect for those starting the language. It is also very useful for those that need a refresher course.