At the time a developer and aspiring technical writer, I jumped at the opportunity,
albeit wondering how I??™d ever be able to finish such a large writing project. Like running
a first marathon, success was gauged by way of mere completion rather than by any
other benchmark.
Eight years have since passed, and that original book is still alive and kicking, its
current incarnation being what you hold in your hands. Suffice it to say this project
has exceeded my wildest expectations, and I thank Gary and Apress (now a much
larger but still ambitious publisher) profusely for the opportunity.
I??™d also like to thank my project manager Tracy Brown Collins for her infinite patience
and organizational talents. Technical reviewers Jay Pipes and Matt Wade offered valuable
insight that greatly improved the material. Copy editor Bill McManus once again proved
his keen ability to turn my jabbering into coherent English. All other members of the
Apress team also deserve a hand for all of the hard work behind the scenes.
Last but certainly not least, I??™d like to thank my family and friends for reminding
me there is indeed life beyond the keyboard.
xxxiii
Introduction
Most great programming books sway far more toward the realm of the practical
than of the academic. Although I have no illusions regarding my place among the
great technical authors of our time, it is always my goal to write with this point in
mind, producing material that you can apply to your own situation.
Pages:
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68