Inside Microsoft SQL Server 6.5 [With *]

This book was awesome. It takes a very very deep and granular look at SQL server. I just got a job as a SQL DBA and I wanted to know everything there was about SQL server. For three months I read this book on the bus to and from work, and now, when an issue comes up at work, i am AMAZED by how much I know. He also really prepares you with the transition to SQL 7, hinting at possible new features as he goes along. If you had only read this book, you would know more about SQL 7 than you think!Only 2 negative comments: Very pro-microsoft and anti-competition. Oracle has GOT to do some things better than SQL Server, but you would never know that by reading this book. Also, this book is NOT A REFERENCE book. It is a story about SQL Server, and if you get to the end, you will be a kick-butt DBA.

This is a must-have for any *serious* SQL 6.5 DBA or developer. It is not the only book you must have, it does NOT explain how to use SQL Server (hence the bad review given by someone who had never used it). It explains, very clearly, how it works, and what happens under the bonnet. Reading it really gave me a very clear understanding of what goes on, which means I can use it better, more efficeintly etc. There is a great section on Query optimisation, which I've just started, but so far so good.If you want to learn how to use SQL Server, get Wynkoop's "Using SQL Server 6.5 Special Edition", if you've got that or similar, and want to know more, get this one.

If you are new to SQL server or TSQL, you should buy a TSQL reference or "teach yourself" type of book rather than this book. After you finish learning TSQL, then BUY THIS BOOK and STUDY EVERY PAGE. When I first started learning SQL this book was too advanced for me. But after getting a grip on SQL syntax, you will realize that this book is truly the BIBLE. I have bought 4 SQL books (plus I have all of the books on line) - and whenever I can't find an answer in all of those other books I know that it will be in Soukup's. And it always is.This is not a "how to install" SQL server book - as some seem to have mistaken it for.

It is not often I give 5 stars (except when I eat Chinese food). I learned more about SQL Server from this single book than any other source. Concise and clear explainations. Detail where it needs to be. I used this in developing my first SQL Server 6.5 app. I am so confident now I can talk intelligently with DBA's and systems people. From VB to admin to BCP to T-SQL. If I had a reference like this for other products I would have very few books. Great!

We have to admire people like Ron Soukup. He knows what he is talking about and he his very practical. I also recommend a look to SQL-Programmer for Windows from another bunch of good guys at Sylvain Faust. Keep that book with you... all the time if your life (and salary) depends of SQL Server!