Special Edition Using Perl 5 for Web Programming [With *]

I've read at least 6 books on perl, but if you want to specifically learn perl for websites, then this book is very good. It talks about databases (DBMs and SQL). Managing sessions and validating users, and it also talks about creating a shopping cart system. There is a chapter on CGI sercurity. Although the book was written in 1996 its a very good step in the right direction of making good, reliable CGI applications. In fact, compared to other CGI books printed in 96, this book is years ahead of them.

When I bought this book, I had absolutely no serious programming background. I was pretty accomplished in HTML, but nothing advanced. At first, the book was a bit hard. But the technique that I found helpful is to re-read each section (or each topic). I haven't even looked on the CD yet, and I'm learning loads about Perl. Also, reading this book really helps one understand some more advanced Perl tutorials on the web. It doesn't get 5 stars though, because the reader has to really be committed. This isn't a light read: get in the thinking mood when you read it.

Regardless if you are just getting into Perl and CGI, or if you've been at it for years, this book is for you. I originally used it as a "how to", and have since moved up to the more advanced topics in Perl. It provided me with all of the building blocks I needed for a secure foundation in the language...and it still has a prized place in my reference library! Its (very complete) listing of Perl functions and their syntax is unbeatable. I refer to it constantly, and have never been left hanging. Nice job QUE, you've turned out another great one!

The real book title is the one showed on the cover picture: "Using Perl 5 for Web Programming", and the authors are: David Harlan, Shelley Powers, Paul Doyle, and Mícheál Ó Fóghlú. The book is directed to the development of web applications such as form processing, authentication and site administration. It's *not* an introductory book.