Jesse Liberty's Teach Yourself C++ in 21 Days does an admirable job of introducing many of the major topics in the C++ programming language and object-oriented design in a tutorial format. The first week of lessons includes the basics of C++, such as basic language statements, classes, and flow control. Using integrated examples with the included Borland C++ 3.1 compiler (for building C++ command-line programs in DOS and 16-bit Windows 3.1), the author does a great job at getting the beginning C++ programmer up and running fast. (The guide assumes readers have no prior C experience, but it will be most beneficial to readers who have some previous programming experience.)
In some of the most useful tutorials, the middle section of the book introduces C++ pointers and references as well as important object-oriented concepts such as polymorphism and inheritance. The final tutorials continue with more-advanced concepts in object design, including containment, delegation, private inheritance, and how to use C++ streams effectively. The author does a good job of making these abstract concepts comprehensible. Short code excerpts illustrate all the basics.
Later, the author demonstrates his considerable expertise in object-oriented analysis and design without getting too bogged down in software engineering theory. Information on getting the most out of the C++ preprocessors, macro statements, C++ templates, and exception handling round out this solid introduction. (Although there is little material on introducing the C++ Standard Library here--one of the most productive language features of C++--the author manages to cover a lot of ground.) --Richard V. Dragan
Book Description
This package is the perfect starter kit for new C++ programmers. The Teach Yourself book is one of the most popular tutorials for learning the C++ language. Each of the 21 lessons consist of a full-day's activities for the reader as they learn C++. Readers can receive guidance from the web-based mentoring program and utilize other related resources via the book's online site.
- The one-stop solution for learning the popular C++ language: a commercial-grade compiler along with a copy of the best selling Teach Yourself C++ in 21 Days book
- Includes a pre-and post-assessment testing product on CD-ROM, similar to the assessment testing products offered by major training companies
- The product also offers access to the online mentoring area ("ask the C++ experts your programming questions") as well as a C++ Resource Center web site
See all Editorial Reviews
