While other books only touch on the subject, this book is design to provide in-depth guidance so that the reader can become a java master. There are lots of examples as this book guides the reader from a beginner to advanced level. The reader will learn:
Chapter 1: Java Basics Chapter 2: Java Data Structures and Algorithms Chapter 3: Java Web Development Chapter 4: Java GUI Programming Chapter 5: Object-Oriented Programming Chapter 6: Java Interview Questions
I have very little to no understanding of programming and programming languages overall, but after attempting to read up on Python, I figured it would be a good idea for me to see how reading up on a different programming language would turn out for me. Considering Java is the most widely-used programming language and this book was written by the author of the Python book I read, I decided that this might be the next logical step for me.
White’s guide is certainly thoroughly, covering everything from how Java works and the basic terminology to web development and object-oriented programming. White even discusses Java interview questions which might come up when applying for a position which involves programming, a fact which both took me by surprise and set this book apart from similar guides. Of course, given the fact that interview questions are included here points to this fact that this book is not for anyone casually interested or only vaguely curious about learning how to program using Java. Rather, you need to be truly invested in this process and want to do something significant with it in order to get the most that you can from reading it.
That’s not to say that the information here can only be understood by those already experienced in Java and programming overall. The language is simple enough that pretty much anyone with at least a bit of a mind for this kind of work can understand it. A good portion of the book, especially in the beginning, might also be considered too basic for more advanced users, but it would be useful even to them if they want to brush up on the building blocks before an interview or when it’s been a long time since they last studied programming. Regardless, those who are just getting interested in Java and/or have little preexisting knowledge of programming will want to start with a smaller, more concise introduction. White’s book is also very hands-on, so it would be a good idea to have at least an idea of what you’re getting into before you start reading Mastering Java.
Overall, if you are a complete greenhorn to Java and programming, this book isn’t really for you. While the casual voice of the writing makes it easy to follow along, the terminology and sheer length of the book—687 pages—can be very intimidating for a true beginner, and so it would be best to return to this after building a more basic knowledge set elsewhere. However, if you have already dipped your toes into this world, Mastering Java is a good way to build upon your understanding of Java and refresh your memory of what you already know.
This book covers a lot of material, too much, I think. Java is too extensive to ”master” in a single book. However, there is a lot of useful information here making the book a good reference. Scan it to see what is covered, then put it on your shelf for later reference.