Despite its title, this is a book for professionals and experienced programmers. On the other hand, it does not assume any knowledge of XML itself. Beginning with an explanation of what XML is all about, the book goes on to explain XML presentation using Cascading Style Sheets, and transformation using XSLT. Next, there is a look at programming XML using the Document Object Model or the Simple API for XML (SAX). There is an explanation of XML validation and structure using DTDs or their replacement, XML Schemas. Then the main part of the book closes with a discussion of XML and databases and XML RPC (Remote Procedure Calls).

The most interesting section is tucked away at the end. There are three case studies, one describing an e-commerce site, another a message board and the last a business-to-business application. The case studies put the rest of the book into context and show how XML can be useful in the real world.

This is a useful general introduction to XML, but there are limitations. First, aside from the chapter on SAX, the examples are generally based on Microsoft's XML parser, and those who are implementing XML solutions on non-Microsoft platforms, or who intend to work mainly with XML and Java, would be better seeking out an alternative such as Java and XML. Second, coverage for some more advanced topics, such as XML and databases, is sketchy so you are likely to need other books alongside this one. Even so, XML newcomers will find plenty of content here to get them up to speed. --Tim Anderson

2003-10-10 Good explanations for those at sea with xml

I found the book well paced and well written and it gave me, a beginner, a much better understanding of xml than I had previously. It isn't particularly practical but certain things were really well done - at last I've got a handle on namespaces and how to use them. Could have done with more xslt material and examples and it is very Microsoft orientated.