By tapping the strengths of the open-source movement, developers can write custom Linux software without spending a dime on licensing fees. Aimed at the experienced C/C++ programmer, Professional Linux Programming provides a wide-ranging and hands-on guide to the different pieces of the puzzle required to program successfully on this exciting new platform.

The book is framed as a case study for building a custom database program in Linux for a video-rental store. After a tour of the requirements and a brief look at project management for creating this software, the various Linux packages needed to implement this system are described, along with sample code, most of it written in C. Some packages (like the CVS version-control package) come with most distributions of Linux. Others will require downloading additional software over the Internet. In every case, you're provided with the actual command-line arguments needed to install, configure and run each package.

Besides a great exploration of CVS for version control, there's excellent coverage of the free PostgreSQL and MySQL databases, two very popular choices for Linux databases. The book also does a good job of explaining user-interface design under both the GTK+/GNOME and KDE (two popular Linux desktops) and how to extend the reach of the sample database application using Remote Procedure Calls (RPCs) and CORBA. Of course, the finished application doesn't use every Linux API covered here, but the book casts a wide net and introduces features and tools that are available.

Two standout chapters tour you through the essentials of other programming languages. There's PHP for Web development and an appealing, enthusiastic introduction to Python (which will probably turn you into a Python convert). Later chapters provide practical tips for testing and debugging applications, including how to profile your code. The book closes with a useful guide to creating Redhat Package Manager (RPM) packages for deploying applications, as well as a quick overview of your documentation options. By covering so many APIs, languages, and tools effectively, Professional L Linux Programming gives experienced C/C++ programmers all that they need to get started with Linux development. With its remarkably clear presentation style and abundance of practical tips, it's an admirably useful blueprint for building custom software. --Richard Dragan

2001-09-20 Hard Work

You have to fit in with the querky structure of the book, because it wont fit in with you. It is as far from a problem solving book as you can get. If you want to get something practical done it's not the book for you. Having said that it got me out of fix with CVS (version control) which was sensibly covered as early as chapter 2. It helped by pointing out that CVS ignores files called core (and others). My project had a 'directory' called core, so that fact it mentioned this was a Godsend. Coverage of binary files in CVS was handy too. What suprised me is that nobody seems to use CVS for developing ports of linux itself, if they did the resulting problems would be emphasised.

This seems to be one of those fat books with no examples CD that takes a lot of your time with little payoff. Its as if it is felt that fatness is a guaranteed substitute for value. I simply dont have the time to read it all (It's not the only book). It must be possible to be more succinct!