The Official Gnome 2 Developer's Guide : Book Review

"The Official Gnome 2 Developer's Guide" written by Matthias Warkus is an indispensable resource for developers who are interested in creating applications using the Gnome 2 desktop environment. This comprehensive book delves into the architecture, APIs, and development tools of Gnome 2, equipping developers with a deep understanding of the platform.

Warkus begins by introducing readers to the fundamental concepts of Gnome 2 and its underlying technologies. He explains the structure of the platform, including components like the window manager and the panel, which are crucial for developers to comprehend in order to build applications effectively.

Throughout the book, Warkus provides clear explanations and practical examples to illustrate the usage of Gnome 2 APIs and development tools. He covers a broad range of topics, including user interface handling, file and directory manipulation, and advanced features like drag-and-drop functionality. By addressing these areas comprehensively, developers gain the necessary knowledge to create robust and feature-rich applications.

One notable aspect of this book is its attention to detail. Warkus meticulously explores various elements of Gnome 2, explaining their purpose and providing best practices and common pitfalls. This level of detail not only helps developers avoid potential issues but also enhances the book's value as a reference for both beginner and experienced developers.

"The Official Gnome 2 Developer's Guide" is written in an accessible style, making it easy to follow along. The author's explanations are straightforward, and the code examples are well-documented. Additionally, the book includes practical exercises and challenges that allow readers to apply their knowledge and hone their skills.

What are readers saying?

The Official Gnome 2 Developer's Guide by Matthias Warkus has generated differing opinions among readers. While some found the book to be an extensive and beneficial resource for comprehending the Gnome 2 development platform, others expressed various criticisms.

One reader praised the book for its detailed explanations and examples, stating that it provided a solid foundation for beginners in Gnome 2 development. They particularly appreciated the author's clear writing style and step-by-step approach, which made it easier to grasp the concepts. Another reviewer mentioned that the book also served as a helpful reference guide for experienced developers, covering numerous Gnome 2 topics.

On the other hand, several readers expressed frustration with the book's lack of organization and structure. One reviewer found the content to be scattered, making it difficult to follow along or find specific information. Another mentioned that the book often transitioned abruptly between different topics, leaving them feeling confused at times.

Additionally, some reviewers felt that the book was outdated since it was published in 2004 and Gnome 2 has undergone significant changes since then. They noted that some of the examples and techniques discussed in the book may no longer be relevant or applicable to current Gnome 2 development.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still found value in The Official Gnome 2 Developer's Guide. They appreciated the author's extensive knowledge of Gnome 2 and felt that the book provided a solid starting point for understanding the platform. However, it is important to note that due to its publication date and subsequent developments in Gnome, readers may need to supplement this book with additional resources to stay updated on the latest practices in Gnome 2.

Gnome2Guide DeveloperBook CodingWithGnome