At the best of times, Visual C++ is a very difficult subject to cover. From the feature-packed user interface through the syntax and structure of the basic language to the complexities of the Microsoft Foundation Classes (MFC) there's a massive amount of ground to cover.

Visual C++ in Easy Steps starts with the assumption that the package has already been installed on the target PC and leads the reader through a guided tour of the GUI before plunging headlong into the creation of Windows-compatible code. Diagrams and step-by-step guides are used in abundance, proving that a picture really can paint a thousand words, and author Alan Kelly does a great job of touching on many of the features and functions of Visual C++ including the debugger, and a variety of tools including the MFC Tracer and Visual Component Manager.

The problem is that with only 192 pages to play with there's not enough room to cover any more than the basics--great if you're a total beginner looking for an overview of the package as a whole but not quite so hot if you have more experience. That said, it is a great beginners guide and is thoroughly recommended for anyone looking to crack the Visual C++ veneer.