Computer Book Prepub Alert

By Maura Deedy, Ferguson Library, Stamford, CT -- Library Journal, 4/3/2008 11:17:00 AM

Spring brings a slew of hot computer book topics of note. First and foremost are web applications, like those from Google and Facebook, which are becoming increasingly popular. Guides on using and developing tools will be a hit with users seeking portability in projects and with librarians who want to learn more about these services. Books on Wikipedia, Craigslist, and Problogger will open up new horizons on the web. Avid gamers may be interested in learning how to develop their own games with easy-to-follow guide books.

Programming, server, and database books continue to be published as new versions are released; update where previous guides have circulated. New works on Java, .NET 3.5, PHP, MySQL, Windows Presentation Foundation, and Windows Workflow Foundation are sure to be popular among new users looking for a comprehensive and accessible introduction and advanced users seeking advice on migrating and updating systems. Libraries might want to add titles that cover open-source software, as it continues to be a viable option to commercial software.

Vista guides will continue to be in demand while people buy new computers and upgrade operating systems. Look for titles with updates on the latest Service Pack. Apple fans will be interested in titles on maximizing their iPhones and guides to Leopard.

Certification

Brooks, Charles. CompTIA A+ Exam Prep (Exams A+ Essentials, 220-602, 220-603, 220-604). Exam Cram: QUE. Apr. 2008. 1296p. ISBN 978-0-7897-3565-2. pap. $59.99 with CD-ROM.
Updated prep books will help patrons ace the new A+ certification exams. Update where earlier versions have circulated.

Watkins, Michael & Kevin Wallace. CCNA Security Exam Certification Guide. Cisco Pr. Jun. 2008. 600p. ISBN 978-1-58720-220-9. pap. $49.99.
Libraries will want to update earlier editions of CCNA study guides to cover the latest changes.

Databases

Bennett, James. Practical Django Projects. Apress. Jun. 2008. 300p. ISBN 978-1-59059-996-9. pap. $44.99.
With this book, readers learn by doing as they build several Django projects. This hands-on approach to this popular open-source tool introduces the well-defined framework architecture of Django, how to build user-friendly web sites, and handle complex database interactions.

Stephens, Ryan & others. SAMS Teach Yourself SQL in 24 Hours. SAMS. May 2008. 500p. ISBN 978-0-672-33018-6. $34.99.
A great introduction for those new to SQL with little to no programming experience. Updated for the latest SQL standard, SQL3, users will learn the basics of SQL through exercises, quizzes, and tutorials.

Graphics, Design, & Multimedia

Blatner, David & Jeff Carlson. Microsoft Expression Design for Windows: Visual QuickStart Guide. Peachpit. Jun. 2008. ISBN 978-0-321-35655-0. pap. $24.99.
This book will teach users everything they need to know about Microsoft Expression Design. With task-based instruction, users will learn how to create compelling graphic designs, apply high-quality effects, import artwork from other tools, and export to a variety of formats.

Brych, Felicia & others. The Power of IP Video. Cisco Pr. Aug. 2008. 250p. ISBN 978-1-58705-342-9. pap. $35.
IP video is increasingly becoming an effective way of digital communication. Patrons will learn about the business benefits and how to profit from video, voice, and web communications technologies.

Darby, Jason. Picture Yourself Creating Video Games. Course Technology PTR. Jun. 2008. 288p. ISBN 978-1-59863-551-5. pap. $34.99 with CD-ROM.
Patrons with no programming skills who are interested in creating their own video games will appreciate this easy-to-follow guide. Using Games Factory 2, a drag-and-drop software, users will learn simple programming terms, storyboard strategies, and basic game creations skills.

Davis, Jack. How To Wow: Photoshop CS3 for Photography. Peachpit. May 2008. ISBN 978-0-321-50986-4. pap. $44.99 with CD-ROM.
This book's step-by-step instructions and clear-cut solutions are geared toward photographers. Simple recipes are included for overcoming common workflow problems, as are tips for photo-enhancing techniques. Covering all the newest tools in the latest version, this book will be appreciated by photography buffs.

Finkelstein, Ellen. AutoCAD 2009 & AutoCAD LT 2009 Bible. Wiley. Jun. 2008. 1296p. ISBN 978-0-470-26017-3. pap. $49.99.
In its ninth edition, this reference tutorial is popular among novice and experienced users. A comprehensive scope means no features are left out.

Karney, James. Picture Yourself Getting the Most Out of Your Digital SLR Camera: Step-by-Step Instruction for Taking Great Photographs of Your World. Course Technology PTR. Jul. 2008. 304p. ISBN 978-1-59863-529-4. pap. $24.99 with DVD.
Digital SLR cameras are becoming increasingly popular as they become more affordable. This step-by-step guide will teach new users the essential skills of exposure, focusing, lighting, and composition. These skills are demonstrated through real-world settings like holiday celebrations or a sporting event. The DVD includes trial versions of three popular photo-editing programs.

Palamar, Todd. Maya Feature Creature Creations. 2d ed. Charles River Media: Course Technology PTR. Apr. 2008. 432p. ISBN 978-1-58450-547-1. pap. $54.99 with CD-ROM.
This new edition takes users through the process of building two new characters from start to finish, teaching the latest techniques and technology. This clear book highlights Maya Cloth to produce skin and muscle deformations techniques.

Peck, George. Crystal Reports 2008: The Official Guide. Osborne/McGraw-Hill. Jul. 2008. 1032p. ISBN 978-0-07-159098-3. pap. $59.99.
This guide will take users through the features of Crystal Reports to create effective reports, access enterprise data, format and deliver it, and intergrate Crystal Reports into Web platforms.

Swamy, Nanu & Naveena Aswadhat. Collaborative Online Game Creation. Charles River Media: Course Technology PTR. Jul. 2008. 320p. ISBN 978-1-58450-560-0. pap. $39.99.
Users with no previous programming experience are taught the basics of simple game creation with this guide. Readers will learn how to use Game Boss Game Creator, a browser-based application to create and publish games, and how to collaborate with others to develop games.

Online Life

Ayers, Phoebe & others. How Wikipedia Works. No Starch. May 2008. 352p. ISBN 978-1-59327-176-3. pap. $29.95.
Wikipedia is one of the world's most popular web sites, but how it works is poorly understood. The authors, who are longtime Wikipedia contributors, cover the basics of searching and navigating the site and advanced topics like policies, etiquette, and editing syntax. This book will be helpful for both librarians and patrons.

Banks, Michael. On the Way to the Web: The Secret History of the Internet and Its Founders. Apress. Jun. 2008. 250p. ISBN 978-1-4302-0869-3. pap. $24.99.
Banks takes a look behind the big names and well-known history of the Internet, highlighting the players and events behind the scenes. From personal stories recounting experiences of building the early Internet, readers will learn about the historical and cultural context out of which the web was born. Computer enthusiastists will find this book especially interesting.

Conner, Nancy. Google Apps: The Missing Manual. O'Reilly. May 2008. 512p. ISBN 978-0-596-51579-9. pap. $34.99.
Google's web-based applications are proving to be a viable alternative to Microsoft Office, and many businesses are taking note. This guide teaches users how to use these new tools, showing what can be done and how to get the most out of the business suite.

Hogan, Brian P. Web Design Theory and Techniques for Programmers. Pragmatic. Jun. 2008. 300p. ISBN 978-1-9343561-3-5. pap. $34.95.
This book will help programmers make their applications come alive with information on how to pick colors and fonts, avoid interface mistakes, and use Photoshop and CSS techniques to improve applications.

Langer, Maria & Miraz Jordan. WordPress: Visual QuickStart Guide. 2d ed. Peachpit. Apr. 2008. 328p. ISBN 978-0-321-55358-4. pap. $24.99.
WordPress is a popular open-source publishing platform used by bloggers that can create complete web sites. This accessible guide shows readers how to install, use, and customize WordPress. The authors include tips on how to look for potential problems and where readers can find additional resources.

Lloyd, Jenna. Craigslist 4 Everyone. QUE. May 2008. 312p. ISBN 978-0-7897-3828-8. pap. $19.99.
Patrons will be interested in this book about the popular online local classified site. Craigslist (link to craigslist) is more than just housing listings: people find goods, services, local events, and perhaps even romance. Business owners will benefit from information about how to use the site to sell products, generate leads, and find employees.

Rowse, Darren & Chris Garrett. ProBlogger: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six-Figure Income. Wiley. May 2008. 240p. ISBN 978-0-470-24667-2. pap. $24.99.
Blogging has become a popular hobby for many people and for some a source of income. Readers will learn the ins and outs of making money from blogging through practical lessons about selecting a topic and setting up a blog, analyzing the market, and promoting their blog. For entrepreneurs and hobbyists. The Problogger web site also features helpful hints and tips.

Shuen, Amy. Web 2.0: A Strategy Guide. O'Reilly. Apr. 2008. 272p. ISBN 978-0-596-52996-3. pap. $24.99.
This book focuses on strategies for implementing Web 2.0 for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and executives. It examines how Web 2.0 is different, ways it can be used to create new opportunities on the web, and how it can impact the bottom line.

Teeter, Ryan and Karl Barksdale. Google Apps For Dummies. Wiley. May 2008. 384p. ISBN 978-0-470-18958-0. pap. $24.99.
Clear, simple-to-grasp steps will help readers learn about the features and functions of Google Apps. Business professionals who are becoming increasingly mobile can access their documents anywhere there is a web connection. Information on how Google Apps can be used with Microsoft Office for greater flexibility and collaboration is included.

Wagner, Richard. Building Facebook Applications For Dummies. Wiley. Jun. 2008. 384p. ISBN 978-0-470-27795-9. pap. $29.99.
This approachable reference is for beginners who want to learn how to build Facebook applications. Includes information on extending an existing application within Facebook.

Operating Systems

Grant, Richard. Ubuntu for Non-Geeks: A Pain-Free, Project-Based, Get-things Done Guidebook. 3d ed. No Starch. Jun. 2008. 352p. ISBN 978-1-59327180-0. pap. $34.95 with CD-ROM.
Updating for the latest Ubuntu release, Grant takes new users through the basics of setting up the operating system and basic desktop functions. This guidebook is structured with projects that build on earlier tutorials and concepts. The CD-ROM allows users to try out the software without fully committing to an installation.

Hill, Mako & others. The Official Ubuntu Book. 3d ed. Prentice Hall PTR. Jul. 2008. 536p. ISBN 978-0-13-713668-1. pap. $34.99.
Updated to cover Ubuntu version 8.04, this guide takes users through the basics of the popular open-source operating system. Users will learn the basics of installation and customization, installing standard desktop applications and troubleshooting advice.

Programming

Bloch, Joshua. Effective Java. 2d ed. Addison-Wesley. May 2008. 288p. ISBN 978-0-321-35668-0. pap. $44.99.
This completely updated edition for Java 6 is filled with best practices and tips for Java programmers. Each of the 57 tips is introduced and explained with code snippets to demonstrate principles and best practices.

Ceder, Vern. Head First Programming. O'Reilly. May 2008. 608p. ISBN 978-0-596-51418-1. pap. $49.99.
This visually formatted book will help novice programmers learn the basic tools for writing software. By the time it's finished, readers will be building real applications.

Clinton, Jason. Ruby Phrasebook. SAMS. May 2008. 240p. ISBN 978-0-672-32897-8. pap. $16.99.
This pocket guide provides essential code "phrases" for quick reference.

Eisenberg, Robert. SAMS Teach Yourself WPF in 24 Hours. SAMS. Jul. 2008. 500p. ISBN 978-0-672-32985-2. pap. $34.99.
A tutorial approach to Windows Presentation Foundation will take readers through building each of the four applications, ensuring an understanding of the important parts of the underlying technology. Users will build several real-world applications when they have completed the book.

Eisenberg, Robert. SAMS Teach Yourself Windows Workflow Foundation (WF) in 24 Hours. SAMS. Jul. 2008. 400p. ISBN 978-0-321-48699-8. pap. $39.99.
With the familiar Teach Yourself format, this introductory tutorial takes the complicated topic of Windows Workflow Foundation and presents topics in small, easy-to-follow lessons. Eisenberg covers the most common and important components of WF punctuated with real-world examples.

Foster, Robert. ASP.NET 3.5 AJAX Unleashed. SAMS. May 2008. 420p. ISBN 978-0-321-50361-9. pap. $39.99.
Foster draws on his experience building Ajax-enabled web apps to show readers what skills ASP.NET developers need to learn to take advantage of rich opportunities made possible by ASP.NET Ajax.

Johnson, Lyle. FXRuby: Create Lean and Mean GUIs with Ruby. Pragmatic. Apr. 2008. 238p. ISBN 978-1-934356-07-4. pap. $36.95.
For patrons who want to learn quickly how to use FXRuby to develop graphical user interface apps, this book will get them started through tutorial exercises and focused technical information. Novices and experienced users will find practical knowledge and techniques to assist them in developing sophisticated tools.

Liberty Jesse & Alex Horovitz. Programming .NET 3.5. O'Reilly. Jun. 2008. 704p. ISBN 978-0-596-52756-3. pap. $49.99.
Readers will take a grand tour of .NET 3.5 technologies to learn how they are used together to build modern service-oriented applications. The authors reveal the common threads uniting .NET 3.5 technologies so readers can benefit from best practices and architectural patterns.

Mangino, Michael J. Facebook Platform Development with Rails. Pragmatic. Jun. 2008. 200p. ISBN 978-1-9343561-2-8. pap. $32.95.
Using the Ruby on Rails framework, would-be developers will learn the skills needed to build their own Facebook application. By building a real Facebook Platform application using FBML and FSL, users will learn each step from configuration to deployment. Also included are tips on using the messaging system and handling millions of users.

McFarland, David. JavaScript: The Missing Manual. O'Reilly. 500p. ISBN 978-0-596-51589-8. pap. $39.99.
For users with little or no programming experience, this Missing Manual introduces JavaScript in a clear and entertaining manner. McFarland introduces the basics of language structure and terminology, and then moves to explore the advanced JavaScript tools to add interactivity.

Meloni, Julie. SAMS Teach Yourself PHP, MySQL and Apache All in One. 4th ed. SAMS. May 2008. 650p. ISBN 978-0-672-32976-0. pap. $39.99 with CD-ROM.
This updated edition covers the most recent developments in open-source web development tools. With a CD-ROM starter kit, readers can install a safe, foolproof learning environment to learn how the tools work and how they work together to create dynamic web sites.

Patrick, Tim. Programming Visual Basic 2008. O'Reilly. May 2008. 752p. ISBN 978-0-596-51843-1. pap. $49.99.
Patrick is an experienced developer familiar with the ins and outs of Visual Basic. This hands-on guides examines the core topics of VB with many code examples, as well as discusses .NET programming with a plan for developing and deploying a full data-driven application.

Riordan, Rebecca. Head First Ajax. O'Reilly. May 2008. 600p. ISBN 978-0-596-51578-2. pap. $49.99.
Give readers an up-to-date perspective that explores the big picture of Ajax, and then focuses on the individual Ajax components with this popular series.

Schildt, Herb. Herb Schildt's C++ Programming Cookbook. Osborne/McGraw-Hill. May 2008. 500p. ISBN 978-0-07-148860-0. pap. $49.99.
Schildt is a leading authority on C++ and has cooked up over 200 practical and self-contained recipes for experienced programmers. Chapters are organized by a series of real-life tasks, followed by solutions and a discussion of the techniques used. Add this cookbook where C++ programming guides are popular.

Tyler Young, Stacy. Adobe AIR Programming Unleashed. SAMS. Jun. 2008. 750p. ISBN 978-0-672-32971-5. pap. $44.99.
With Adobe AIR, programmers can build rich Internet applications that run across operating systems. This hands-on approach to AIR programming helps developers use their skills to build dynamic desktop applications.

VanDyk, John. Pro Drupal Development. 2d ed. Apress. Jul. 2008. 400p. ISBN 978-1-4302-0989-8. pap. $44.99.
Completely updated for Drupal 6, this text offers developers more tricks and tips to help build their skills. Assuming users have a basic knowledge of Drupal, they will learn about user management, node systems, caching, and the various APIs available.

Welling, Luke & Laura Thomson. PHP and MySQL Web Development. 4th ed. SAMS. Jul. 2008. 950p. ISBN 978-0-672-32916-6. pap. $49.99.
This updated guide reflects the latest versions of PHP and MySQL for readers with little to no experience. With updated examples and step-by-step instructions, readers will be building their own projects in no time.

Williams, Brennon. Microsoft Expression Blend Unleashed. SAMS. Jul. 2008. 500p. ISBN 978-0-672-32931-9. pap. $49.99.
Microsoft Expression Blend is a design tool for developing rich user interfaces for both Windows and web-based applications. This book is for readers familiar with .NET development basics who want to get up to speed with this new product. Williams demonstrates how Blend fits into the .NET 3.0 universe of tools, especially with Windows Presentation Foundation.

Security

Miller, Michael. Is It Safe?: Protecting Your Computer, Your Business, and Yourself Online. QUE. Jul. 2008. 400p. ISBN 978-0-7897-3782-3. pap. $29.99.
Miller addresses the growing concern around identity theft and online fraud.

Servers

Luckett, Richard & others. Microsoft Exchange Server 2008: The Complete Reference. Osborne/McGraw-Hill. May 2008. 800p. ISBN 978-0-07-149084-9. pap. $49.99.
Updated for the latest software upgrades, this complete reference takes users through the basics of installing and configuring Exchange server. Readers will learn how to manage email and shared calendars, as well as learn to set up mobile and Web-based accounts. Users of previous versions will find helpful topics on migrating to the latest version.

Petkovic, Dusan. Microsoft SQL Server 2008: A Beginner’s Guide. Osborne/McGraw-Hill. Jun. 2008. 600p. ISBN 978-0-07-154638-6. pap. $39.99.
This guide is a great addition for beginners looking to learn more about Microsoft SQL server. Completely revised to cover the latest version, it provides a comprehensive introduction to the new and improved features, including administration and development.

Apple

Boles, David W. Picture Yourself Learning Microsoft Office 2008 for Mac. Course Technology PTR. May 2008. 320p. ISBN 978-1-59863-515-7. pap. $29.99.
These popular full color guides will be a great addition for new Mac users and those upgrading to Office 2008. With step-by-step instructions and helpful hints, users will quickly be brought up to speed on new features.

Brundage, Barbara. Photoshop Elements 6 for Mac: The Missing Manual. O'Reilly. Apr. 2008. 554p. ISBN 978-0-596-51936-0. pap. $44.99.
Mac users will find this Missing Manual helpful as they explore the latest version of Photoshop elements. With new features for making photo collages, creating Web galleries, and scrapbooking, this easy-to-understand book will help readers learn how to get the most out of this software.

Hart-Davis, Guy. Mac OS X Leopard QuickSteps. Osborne/McGraw-Hill. Jul. 2008. 240p. ISBN 978-0-07-154978-3. pap. $19.99.
Users will appreciate the full color screen shots and clear instructions as they learn how to navigate the new features of Leopard. Readers will learn how to customize the desktop, add hardware and software, set up a network, use email applications, and much more. A good addition for both new Mac users and those upgrading to the latest software.

Stolarz, Adam & others. iPhone Hacks. O'Reilly. Jun. 2008. 320p. ISBN 978-0-596-51664-2. pap. $29.99.
For users who want to unlock their iPhone and iPod Touch will find many tips and tricks to uncover little-known features, create web-based applications, and run video game emulators.

Microsoft Office & Windows Vista

Fehily, Chris. Microsoft Windows Vista: Visual QuickStart Guide. 2d ed. Peachpit. Apr. 2008. 640p. ISBN 978-0-321-55362-1. pap. $29.99.
Updating to cover Windows Vista Service Pack One, Fehily has packed this book with screen shots to show features of the latest Windows operating system. Readers will learn about the new interface and the upgrades made to Internet Explorer and Media player.

McFedries, Paul. Build It. Fix It. Own It. QUE. May 2008. 600p. ISBN 978-0-7897-3827-1. $29.99.
Patrons who are interested in learning how to build and repair their own PCs will find easy to follow from McFedries.

Miller, Michael. Easy Microsoft Windows Vista. QUE. May 2008. 368p. ISBN 978-0-7897-3829-5. pap. $21.99.
Basic computer guides are always in demand and are popular with new computer users. This guide is perfect for patrons who prefer visual instruction to Windows Vista, Internet Explorer 7, Windows Media Player 11, and Windows Photo Gallery.