Who's Afraid of C++: Programming Primer for the PC - Softcover

Unknown, Author M.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0123390974 ISBN 13: 9780123390974

Publisher: Academic Press Inc, 1996

Synopsis

This book teaches you to program in C++, assuming no prior knowledge of programming. The methodology used is to explain the principles of good programming, and then illustrate each of them in the context of a realistic, although simple program. This approach differs from that of the vast majority of C++ books now available, which assume facility with C progamming. From the Foreword by Edward Yourdon: "...This is the best technical book I've read since 'Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance' appeared in the mid-1970s." Computer programming isn't really mysterious, or at least it doesn't have to be when it is explained as clearly and simply as it is in this book. You don't need any prior background in programming to follow Steve Heller's gentle step-by-step path to programming in C++--even experienced programmers can read it without feeling patronized.

About this title

From the Author

Suitable for the true novice without being patronizing

There are many C++ books that claim to be appropriate for absolute novices to programming. In almost every case, this claim is untrue because the book tries to cover far too much material at too rapid a pace, leaving the true novice lost and confused.

This book is different: unlike all others, it has been tested on and contributed to by an actual novice whose input resulted in an essentially rewritten book. It covers far less material than other books on C++, but does so much more thoroughly so that the novice is not left behind.

My advice for novices is: don't be fooled by the statement that a particular book is suitable for a complete novice. Instead, look several books over and see which one is appropriate for you. If you include "Who's Afraid of C++?" in that list, I think that's the one you'll choose.

Steve Heller

P.S. There were some problems with the software installation instructions in early printings of this book. Obviously, if you are reading this, you have WWW access. If you have any trouble installing the software, please visit my WWW site at http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/steve_heller/ for the latest updates.

From Computerworld's review, 7/15/97:

Mostly, though, this book is a terrific way of learning about what can be a fairly dry subject, at least to the uninitiated. Susan Spino, the student who corresponds with the author throughout the book, sums it up well when she explains what she felt like when she finally "got it." She writes: "I was held spellbound for a few moments. I gasped, and was gripped with the sudden realization and awe of the profound beauty of the code."

Edition details

• Publisher: Academic Press Inc
• Publication date: 1996
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0123390974
• ISBN 13: 9780123390974
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 486