Oracle PL/SQL Interactive Workbook (2nd Edition)

With over twenty years in large scale IT development using Java/C++/C/Assembly languages on Unix/Windows 2000/NT platforms, but a neophyte with PL/SQL, I needed a PL/SQL package that would assume no background knowledge in PL/SQL, get me up to speed fast, and at the same time be comprehensive. In other words, I wanted everything. This package no only satisfied this need, but opened up new avenues of thought concerning approaches to database programming. The book is simply matchless (it should get 6 stars--an extra star for the terrific exercises that incorporate hidden pearls of IT wisdom), and yes I have perused others on the market. Ms. Silvestrova demonstrates that she is a consummate professional. The flow of the book, depth of the hands-on exercises, and scope of material is an inimitable combination. This so far may sound over-glowing, but a workman is worthy of her hire. I would recommend this package to any introductory or middle level PL/SQL student. If you desire to be a competent PL/SQL professional, look no further. If you desire to have a guide that provides you with a solid answer to specific types of PL/SQL problems, look no further. However, if you seek a slick product that spoon feeds you programming palaver (under the guise of teaching), fly you fool: you have many under-performing options available.

This book is excellent for getting into PL/SQL but keep in mind you should have some knowledge of SQL first. That is the sequence for Oracle. If you want to be a Developer you study SQL first, then PL/SQL, then Forms and so forth. I took two classes on SQL first then bought this book and then signed up for a PL/SQL course at a local college. The book helped me get ahead of the class and now that I am a few weeks into the course I study and review the book and it makes much more sense that way. Also, the text for the coures is Fuerstein's PL/SQL text. That is an additional source but the overall experience has been very positive. There are some typos but if you understand the language you can weed them out.

Flip through the book at the store and you will see a good ratio of theory to examples. Most books are too heavy on theory relative to examples. It is not wordy either. The question/answer format really tests your thinking. Just remember to print the database diagram that comes with the download from the web page and study the relationships. Then you can critically examine the examples since you will fully comprehend the queries in the examples. The only thing I would like is the question/answer in electronic format to save some time typing. A great start to PL/SQL used in Oracle. The web site has an errata section for the book. Note the corrections before you start or you will be needlessly scratching your head. See www.phptr.com/Rosenzweig. Click 'begin' and 'Authors Corner' to see the errata.

This book is perfect for someone new to PL/SQL. The workbook holds your hand and walks you through PL/SQL programming, every step of the way.

I paid 2000 bucks for Oracle's classroom training, then I bought this book and guess what? This book is better! Because it also goes beyond the beginning Oracle class to cover what is in the "Program Units" class as well. As for the website, Prentice Hall changed their author url's but now they have a 'redirect' to the correct site, which happens to be (...) . Again, save your money if you have to pay for your courses yourself, this book replaces "Beginning SQL & PL/SQL", "Advanced SQL", and "Program Units". There! I just saved you (2000+1700+895)=$4595.00 plus hotel and plane fare and lost wages/vacation time!Aunty Violet