Computer Book Reviews

Designing CSS Web Pages by Christopher Schmitt

New Riders, September, 2002
Trade Paperback, 355 pages
ISBN: 0735712638
Ordering information:
Amazon.com


Designing CSS Web Pages
 by Christopher Schmitt Designing CSS Web Pages offers an excellent introduction to the CSS language, which can help developers control the style and formatting on their webpages. Numerous CSS topics are covered in the text, including using multiple columns, splash pages, dynamic HTML, PNG, SVG, browser-safe colors and pushpin design. The book also covers elements of design and provides an understanding of web browsers, so web designers can ensure that the website is presented to visitors in the way they want it to be seen. A final section in the book offers a look at several different CSS designs, including designs for a company news page, a shopping cart page, an online magazine and a personal site. The appendix in the book includes a handy section that provides CSS code for formatting tricks like adding a thick line or creating small, bold text.

Web developer and designer Christopher Schmitt does a good job of explaining the value of CSS and its many uses. Schmitt's analysis, examples and instruction will make it easy for web developers to grasp the concepts of CSS and start using them in their own websites. Some prior experience with HTML and web design is recommended.


Inside JavaScript by Steven Holzner, Ph.D.

New Riders, August, 2002
Trade Paperback, 1072 pages.
ISBN: 0735712859
Ordering information:
Amazon.com


Inside JavaScript
 by Steven Holzner, Ph.D. Inside JavaScript is a detailed reference book for JavaScript programmers containing full JavaScript syntax, instruction and example code. The book lists and explains each JavaScript function, methods, events and objects, with examples and suggestions for how to best use the code. The book also provides instruction on useful methods for using JavaScript, including opening new windows, mouse rollovers, submitting forms, pre-caching images, data binding and changing style sheets on the fly. The book also covers cross-browser issues so readers can be sure to implement JavaScript that is readable by most web browsers. Inside JavaScript contains thousands of pages of instruction, examples and JavaScript reference material. The book provides both basic instruction for beginners just getting started with JavaScript and advanced code and techniques for more experienced web developers. Anyone serious about using JavaScript on their website should have a copy of Inside JavaScript nearby.


Submit Now: Designing Persuasive Web Sites by Andrew Chak

New Riders, September, 2002
Trade Paperback, 342 pages.
ISBN: 0735711704
Ordering information:
Amazon.com


Submit Now: Designing Persuasive Web Sites
 by Andrew Chak There are millions of web surfers available to sell your products and services to -- but how do you convert these surfing masses into consumers willing to spend? This has been a problem web developers have been attempting to answer since the web boom began. Submit Now offers practical suggestions for solving the problem by offering instruction about how to design a persuasive website. The book instructs readers in marketing concepts and explains how they apply to the Internet. Many ecommerce and marketing topics are covered in the book, including effective search engines, bookmarks, providing great content, pictures that sell, shopping carts, tracking transactions, surveys, personal correspondence, demos, discount bundles, receipts, returns, cookies and referrals. Real world examples and screen shots from websites are provided to help readers learn what works online. Case studies of successful websites like Shutterfly, and eBay are also provided.

This is an excellent book for any web developer, marketer or executive looking to get up to speed on what it takes to turn a web surfer into a regular customer. Designing an attractive and easy-to-use website will get you part of the way but, as author Andrew Chak explains, you also need to know how to get your web users to take the actions you want them to take. This book will be especially valuable for web developers who have little background or experience in marketing and sales. If you want a comprehensive and practical book about how to turn your web visitors into customers then Submit Now is the book for you.


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