Big Java

This text is an exploration into computer science, programming principles and advanced features of the Java language. The text is useful for anyone interested in learning or reinforcing introductory programming concepts and beginning to take advantage of many of the exciting attributes of the Java language. Now updated with Java 1.5, Big Java, Second Edition remains the definitive introduction to programming.
Horstmann, in his extensive teaching and industry experience, has always emphasized that those who truly want to study the discipline of Computer Science and the art of programming must, before writing a line of code, first learn to think like a problem solver. With this in mind, the first part of the text is focused not on programming as an abstract exercise, but on fundamental principles of programming and problem solving. Java is both the tool to be mastered and the key to understanding basic computer science concepts.
The second part of this text introduces advanced concepts of the Java programming language. Assuming an understanding of programming concepts at this point, the author offers the reader an in-depth look into how Java relates to searching and sorting, data structures, multithreading, networking, database connectivity, XML, and Java Server Pages.
In addition, the author also offers many reference resources in the appendices, including the Java Library, HTML, running applets, and number systems.
Throughout the text, readers will find notes that cover historical and social aspects of computing and capsule introductions to advanced topics of computer science. These optional features provide valuable context for those interested in going more deeply into the subject.

The cat is out of the bag…

 Tiger––aka Java Version 5.0––is one of the most exciting developments in the Java language, and it’s now integrated throughout this new Second Edition of Cay Horstmann’s Big Java! This one comprehensive and authoritative guide will help you learn computing concepts and programming principles, develop strong problem-solving skills, and become a better programmer, while exploring the elements of Java that are needed to write real-life programs.

With Big Java, 2e, you can:

• Keep up with the latest Java advances. This Second Edition is updated to reflect the innovations of Java Version 5.0, but it can still be used with older versions of the Java SDK (Java 1.2 or higher).
• Get a complete programming and Java reference. Big Java, 2e is a reference that will be of value when studying advanced Java technologies, Internet programming, database access, and many other areas of computer science.
• Master computing concepts and problem solving. The first part of the book encourages you to think as a problem solver, and gives you the resources you need to design efficient and successful programs.
• Take a closer look at the Java language. The second part introduces advanced concepts of the Java programming language, including multithreading, Internet networking, relational databases, XML, and JavaServer Faces.
• Apply what you’ve learned. Realistic case studies and a software engineering focus enable you to tackle complex projects that build upon the knowledge gained across chapters.
• Develop effective habits for professional programming. Quality tips, tips on avoiding common errors, and the online programming style guide teach good programming habits.

Other Wiley books by Cay Horstmann

Java Concepts, Fourth Edition, 0-471-69704-4

Object-Oriented Design and Patterns, 0-471-31966-X

Big C++ (with Timothy Budd), 0-471-47063-5

Computing Concepts with C++ Essentials, Third Edition, 0-471-16437-2