SQL the Complete Reference, 3rd Edition

The title of this book says it all: it's an extremely complete reference to the SQL language. It covers the SQL-89 and SQL2 standards and indicates the features found in SQL2 but not in SQL-89. It covers not only basic SQL data definition, queries, and updates, but also advanced topics such as transaction processing, security, embedded SQL, stored procedures, and object-oriented databases. It also explains how some of the more popular DBMSs vary from or extend standard SQL.There are some places where the information on SQL is not quite complete. For example, the section on data types doesn't give the sizes of the integer types. As another reviewer mentioned, the section on built-in functions doesn't provide enough information to use some of the more rarely used functions. But these omissions are minor; overall, the completeness of information on SQL is quite impressive.If you're totally new to relational databases, and you need to design a database schema, you'll want to also get a book on database modeling and normalization, because these topics are not covered. But if you know relational databases or merely need to write queries and updates on an existing database, this book will be more than adequate.In addition, if you want to access a database from Java or Perl, you'll also want a book on JDBC or DBI, respectively. Perhaps a future edition of the book will cover these topics in the SQL APIs chapter, but they're probably too new to have made it into this edition.

First let me tell you why NOT TO BUY this book: You want to learn how to create SQL statements- there are lots of SQL manuals that are better, and easier to use as a reference because they are lighter in pounds. You want to learn advanced issues in creating a database- if you are that advanced you should buy a book about the particular issue you need help with.Now let me to you WHY TO BUY this book: If you are just building databases complex enough to get into real trouble (and that happens a lot sooner than you may think) you must read this book. It gives an overview of all the problems you need to think about. Very simple databases can get into trouble if you aren't very careful about data integrity and security. This book will raise warning-flags in your head- to find out what do about those warning-flags, however, you may need to go to a book specifically about your application or problem.

This is the best SQL reference I have come across. It covers all aspects of programming in SQL as well as how SQL works under the hood. The material is written in a lucid manner so every topic is accessible. It can be used as a beginner's text, too, but its strength is really in its complete coverage and accuracy.I found the CD-ROM excellent because it let me try out MS SQL Server 7, Oracle8, Sybase and IBM's DB2.

I had no previous experience in SQL and I needed to learn it fast for my job. I chose this book because it got good reviews, and I have no regrets that I bought it. The book is excellent for beginners as well as intermediate level programmers. The material is presented clearly and logically, and explanations and examples are very helpful. I would highly recommend this book to everyone who wants to learn SQL as well as to everyone who is looking for a good reference book.

This book gives practical examples in a clear and concise manner. I recommend it highly to anyone who needs to get up to speed on their SQL and database skills.