Introduction to CGI/Perl: Getting Started with Web Scripts : Book Review

"Introduction to CGI/Perl" by Steven E. Brenner is a user-friendly and comprehensive guide that introduces beginners to the world of CGI (Common Gateway Interface) programming using the Perl language. This book is ideal for those interested in developing dynamic websites and web applications.

Brenner begins by laying a solid foundation by explaining the fundamental concepts of CGI and its role in web development. He provides a clear and concise explanation of how CGI works, including the important components like web servers and CGI scripts. This crucial knowledge allows readers to understand the ins and outs of CGI programming.

One of the standout features of this book is its focus on practical examples and hands-on exercises. Brenner adopts a step-by-step approach, allowing readers to follow along and apply what they've learned to real-life scenarios. By progressively introducing more advanced topics while building upon previous chapters, the learning curve is smooth, even for readers with no prior experience in CGI or Perl.

Another notable aspect of "Introduction to CGI/Perl" is its emphasis on using Perl as the scripting language for CGI programming. The author provides a clear explanation of Perl's syntax, features, and its seamless integration with CGI to create dynamic web applications. This combination of CGI and Perl empowers readers with a powerful toolkit for creating robust and interactive websites.

The book also covers essential topics such as input validation, security best practices, database handling, and file management. These topics are crucial for any web developer, and Brenner does an excellent job of explaining them in a beginner-friendly manner.

What are readers saying?

The book "Introduction to CGI/Perl" written by Steven E. Brenner has received a variety of opinions from readers. This book serves as an introduction to the world of CGI programming with Perl and has garnered both positive and negative feedback.

Some reviewers have praised the book for its comprehensive coverage of the subject matter. They appreciate the author's ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and concise manner, making it accessible for beginners to grasp the fundamentals of CGI programming with Perl. The inclusion of examples and exercises in the book has also been commended by readers for aiding in the practical application of learned concepts.

However, there are also negative reviews of the book. Some readers have criticized it for being outdated, claiming that it fails to cover newer technologies and practices in CGI programming. They believe that certain areas lack depth and advanced CGI programming techniques are not sufficiently addressed.

Another point of contention mentioned by reviewers is the organization and structure of the book. Some readers find it challenging to follow the flow of the content and suggest that a better arrangement of chapters would improve navigation through the material.

In spite of the mixed reviews, some readers acknowledge that "Introduction to CGI/Perl" can serve as a useful starting point for individuals interested in learning CGI programming with Perl. They recommend it for beginners with the caveat of supplementing their knowledge with more current information from online sources or other books that delve into advanced topics.

CGIPerlIntroduction PerlProgramming WebDevelopment