Comments about oreilly Java EE 6 Pocket Guide:

A good programming book should cover three things: what the technology is, how the technology is used, and the why of the "what" and "how". As a pocket guide, Arun Gupta's Java EE 6 Pocket Guide could never have been more than just a brief overview on what is a sizable and extensive framework, the book does admirably in condensing down key features explaining what they are as well as demonstrations of their basic use. Gupta writes with clarity and with understanding.

The lack of depth does start to show with the illustrations of examples. They are merely snapshots of the various components in action. Combined with the well-written explanations, this might constitute a sufficient overview for someone trying to make sense of unfamiliar code (we've all been there), but it would be hard to see the practicality of such examples beyond that.

To give an indication of the content, I'll summarise one section where I'm quite familiar with the API (EJB). The Stateful Session Beans, it first gives a brief overview of what they are, then drops into a coding example of how to define them. Then there's another paragraph that goes through the relevant points from the code. After which there's further highlighting of other relevant annotations, then how to access them from the client.

The two areas I could see this book being useful is first for people who are trying to come at a Java EE system without prior familiarity with the language. Java developers making the professional crossover would fit into this category. This could also apply for people familiar with some aspects of the Java EE architecture who are needing to venture into unfamiliar territory. The other area would be as a cheat sheet for Java EE for those not wanting to rely on Google to get specific information on specific components.

This book will not teach you Java EE, but it will help those looking for a nice practical overview of unfamiliar features. And as a reference guide, it might be helpful for quick information about specific features written in an accessible and no-nonsense way.

This book was given freely as part of the O'Reilly Reader Review Program.

Comments about oreilly Java EE 6 Pocket Guide:

This book focuses on the most commonly used and the new features of Java EE 6. Perfect for job, for interview and as a summary of the new features.
My only complaint is that a bit too concentrated.
I am reading it the second but not the last time, and encourage the author to write more books about Java EE.

Comments about oreilly Java EE 6 Pocket Guide:

The Java EE Pocket Guide is a summary of all of the features of JEE6, but it is by no means comprehensive.

This book is clearly written, as are all books by O'reilly. But I don't see the value of it, as it covers all aspects of J2EE, but with very little detail. I felt like I was bombarded with so many acronyms, one after the other, that it made my head spin. I would suggest using the J2EE Developer Guide as a reference before recommending this book.

Comments about oreilly Java EE 6 Pocket Guide:

This is simply a must have. I know you can always refer directly to J2EE specification, but from time to time, all you need is a short sneak peek. That's what this book is designed for. To give you this kind of short references in most commonly used areas of J2EE development. You don't have to go through long lasting code listings, and learn the technology, instead, you get just bare facts. You simply get as much as you need.

One remark. If you are new to J2EE, feel free to buy this one as a future reference, but you will definitely need some other title to get started (e.g. Head First Servlets and JSP, or EJB 3 in Action – depending on your main area of the interest).

Comments about oreilly Java EE 6 Pocket Guide:

It is the only book you probably will need about Java EE 6! It is comprehensive, wonderfully written and covers everything you need in your daily work. It is not a complete reference but provides a great shortcut to the things you need to know. To me it is a good beginners guide and also works as a companion for advanced users. Get it while it's hot! Thanks Arun for sharing your knowledge!

Comments about oreilly Java EE 6 Pocket Guide:

Absolutely the easiest way to understand and begin utilizing Java EE 6. Arun is by far the best Java EE expert I know and he's written a great pocket guide that should always be carried around.