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JavaScript Pocket Reference (2nd Edition) Review by WDM
Great Pocket Reference
I read this JavaScript pocket reference twice through in review for an exam, which I passed thanks to this book. It's not the most gripping or exciting read (I was not expecting this. Hahaha.), but it presents a very comprehensive explanation of the JavaScript language and its usage. This book is not a one-stop-shop for learning JevaScript. You will still need to purchase another book that will walk you through the language in a more learning friendly manner. (For that, I would recommend A Beginner's Guide to JavaScript, 3rd Edition, by John Pollock.) This book is designed to be a quick reference for when you need to be reminded of how an object is used, what properties/methods exist for an object, what can be accomplished by an object's properties/methods, etc.
The first 52 pages explain the JavaScript language. It begins with the basics, such as syntax, variables, expressions, operators, statements, etc. Then, the book covers how JavaScript relates to and interacts with the DOM. The 54th page begins the alphabetical API reference, which extends to the end of the book on page 127. Now, this book does not contain an index. I can see this being an issue for some folks. Honestly, an index would be helpful for this book. For instance, what if you know a property or method, but can't remember what object contains said property or method? Normally, an index would point you in the right direction, but with this book, you either have to guess or go to another book or resource, such as Google. The lack of an index is not critical, but rather an inconvenience.
Overall, I am pleased with my purchase of this book and I'm glad I have it on my bookshelf for use when I need it. I would recommend it for any JavaScript developer to have at hand.
In the event you are interested, O'Reilly Media, Inc. has these pocket reference books available for sale in the iTunes Application Store as an application for your iPhone or iPod Touch. They are sold for only a few dollars. If you'd rather have an e-book version, that's the way to go. Of course, you can also purchase this book for the Amazon Kindle.