Microsoft Windows Script Host 2.0 Developer's Guide [With CDROM]

There are quite few titles out there now on Windows Script Host and I must say that out of all of the titles that I have seen, this one is the most balanced in terms of helping out newcomers to the technology, as well as seasoned, hard-core scripters coming from experience with other scripting environments to get "up and running" with WSH, using either VBScript or JScript. Development tools, such as editors, debuggers, etc. are also covered and the companion CD is one of the best collections of MS content (all the reference/Scripting SDK stuff on the MSDN Scripting site) as well as demo versions of some 3rd-party scripting tools, sample code from the book and even a .CHM full-text version of the book itself! The MS content and full-text e-Book have saved my bacon on more than one occasion when doing scripting work where I didn't have 'Net access and needed to look something up or install a tool/example/etc.The real shame here is that the follow-on title mentioned in this book was just recently cancelled by Microsoft Press!!! I know _I_ felt cheated! (I'd advance-ordered the book - it had an ISBN # and delivery date already assigned, for goodness' sake!) MS Press, wake up and resurrect this book's sequel! Please!

If you are new to WSH and scripting, or want a book that pulls it all together in a very well organized and comprehensive manner, this is for you! Abundant well thought out examples, in both JScript and VBScript with ample in depth explanations. I particularly like the authors consistent use of Object Oriented jargon associated with WSH. The File System I/O is thoroughly treated. Registry access via script is very clearly treated. The "Programming Techniques and Tips" section makes one thurst for the Authors forthcoming title "Advanced Development with ....". Layout of the book is attractive and effective.

It is a well organized book with topics cover everything you want to know about WSH scripting. I also bought "Windows Script Host Programmer's Reference" by Dino Esposito - Wrox Press a while ago. Born covers a few more topics such as the issues with the windows security and the new Win2K platform. And if you have Esposito's book, you don't need this one. Though I think Dino's book is 3.5 stars and this book is 4, I would spend the 20 bucks for 6 cups of cafe latte.