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ActionScript 2.0 Garage Review by Matthew Hartman
I am offended that they actually are trying to sell this book!
This has got to be the worst book I have ever read. In some cases, it seems as if the author doesn't even know what he is talking about. This book is plagued with so many mishaps, innacurate code examples and worst of all, plain outright lies.
This book has innacurate code examples in most of its chapters and it doesn't have a website with errata or downloadable code examples even though they say that there is (i.e. - lies). The website that they offer does not exist and it kind of makes you wonder [gives you an insight as to] what state of mind the author/publisher is in. If I have ever read a book that needs an errata section on the web, it's this one. This book makes me embarrased to be a flash developer.
I bought this book even after reading the negative reviews because I own almost every other book on ActionScript for MX and/or MX/Pro 2004 (this one is the worst by far) and I thought I might be able to squeeze a few droplets of information out of it. I thought to myself, "how bad could it be?". I didn't really think that any established company could actually put out such a horrible book. How wrong I was. As a matter of fact, if I read this book on line or from a PDF I would think that this was an attempt by a first year(semester even) colledge student in a design (not development) program who was tasked to write a paper on what they *think* ActionScript is.
I would advise anyone trying to learn actionscript to stay away from this one because most likely, you will come away from it confused and less advantaged than before you 'tried' to read it. I personally would suggest that a beginner should read "Sam's Teach Yourself ActionScript MX in 24 Hours". Even though it is for Flash MX, it is still very valuable and plenty useful. I have become to love and cherish most Sam's books. Also another great book for beginners and intermediate developers alike is Colin Mook's "ActionScript for Flash MX 'Definitive Guide' 2nd/Edition" from O'reilly. This book is a must have for any ActionScript developer. Again, although this book is for MX, the same principles apply and all code WILL work. This book will be very valuable for many years to come, no matter how good your AS kung foo skills become.
To sum it all up, I would stay away from this book if you know what is good for you. This book can only do harm as it is misleading. Don't let the author/publisher rob you out of your money especially when there are so many other great books out there. If you ever take the advice of reviewers, take this advice. I am trying to save you a lot of late night cursing sessions, headaches, confused dumbfounded looks and discouragement.