"PHP 5 MySQL Programming for the Absolute Beginner" by Andy Harris is a comprehensive guide that is perfect for those who are new to programming and want to learn PHP and MySQL. The book starts by introducing the basics of programming and gradually progresses to cover more advanced concepts, making it accessible to beginners. Harris does a great job of providing clear explanations and examples throughout the book, making it easy for readers to understand and apply the material effectively.
One of the standout features of this book is its focus on practical application. Harris includes real-world examples and exercises, allowing readers to apply their knowledge and build their own database-driven websites and applications using PHP and MySQL. This hands-on approach not only makes the learning process more engaging, but it also helps readers develop a solid understanding of how these technologies work together.
Additionally, the book covers relevant topics such as working with form data, validating user input, and managing user authentication, which are essential for creating secure and user-friendly websites. These practical tips and techniques are invaluable for individuals who want to enhance their PHP and MySQL programming skills.
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Despite being targeted towards beginners, "PHP 5 MySQL Programming for the Absolute Beginner" also delves into advanced topics like working with cookies and sessions, dynamic image generation, and search functionality. This ensures that even experienced programmers can benefit from the book and expand their knowledge in PHP and MySQL programming.
Overall, Andy Harris' book is an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn PHP and MySQL programming. Its practical approach, clear explanations, and hands-on examples make it a valuable tool for developing dynamic and interactive websites and applications. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced programmer, this book provides a solid foundation and valuable insights into PHP and MySQL programming.
What are readers saying?
The book "PHP 5 MySQL Programming for the Absolute Beginner" by Andy Harris has received a range of feedback from readers. Many reviewers appreciated the book's accessible writing style and its focus on beginners. They praised the author for his ability to explain concepts clearly and understandably, helping readers grasp the fundamentals of PHP and MySQL programming. The inclusion of hands-on exercises and examples was also well-received, as it allowed readers to practice their skills and understand the practical applications of the concepts taught in the book.
However, some readers found the book to be outdated and lacking in depth. They were disappointed by the limited coverage of advanced topics, such as real-world scenarios and complex database operations. The simplistic nature of the examples provided also drew criticism, as they did not adequately prepare readers for real-world programming challenges.
Another common criticism was the lack of updates to the book to reflect newer versions of PHP and MySQL. The book primarily focuses on PHP 5, which is now considered outdated, and does not provide enough information on PHP 7 or the latest MySQL versions. As a result, the book may not be relevant for those seeking to learn the most up-to-date programming techniques.
Despite these mixed reviews, many beginners found the book to be a helpful starting point for learning PHP and MySQL programming. Its approachable style and clear explanations provided them with a solid foundation to build upon, boosting their confidence in their programming abilities. However, more experienced programmers or those looking for advanced topics may find the book lacking in depth and not fully meeting their needs. Overall, the book may be best suited for absolute beginners seeking an introduction to PHP and MySQL programming, but readers should be aware of its limitations in terms of outdated content and the lack of advanced coverage.