Teach Yourself C

I originally picked up the second edition of this book in early 1996. I was coming from Turbo Pascal, and needed an introductory too on C. Before this book I checked out a number of other C books from the library, and every one of them shared the same thing: they threw you right into a C program with little explanation. They did not start off basic. Every author expected you to know too much. Apparently they didn't realize they were writing a beginners book.Herb did it in a very unique way. He started by showing you how to use printf, then showed you a VERY basic (but complete) program structure. He keeps building on that, showing numerous examples, and giving you practices. The best part of that is that the entire code for the tests is in the back of the book. No other author I've seen gives you the source for everything.If it hadn't been for this book, I know I would not have learned C. I had given up on C because other authors did not explain things this clear. This book was the last one I read before I was ready to give up, and this is what got me started.Of course, everyone has their favorites, some like Teach Yourself, Absolutely Beginners Guide, etc, but this is the only book I've ever found that lives up to its name.

This book describes C concepts clearly and concisely with wonderfully clear examples and comprehensive appendices. Highly reccomended for those with no prior knowlege of C

I have only started the first few chapters of this book, and I love it already! I had some minimal experience with Qbasic from high school, and after that nothing except "trying" to dabble in Perl, Javascript and Java without any success. After reading all the online tutorials I could find, I got frustrated and bought this book. In one evening's reading I have already tripled what I could gather from all other sources combined. I would also like to add that I like this approach better than the "C for Dummies" books - it doesn't assume you are stupid, just inexperienced.One negative comment - he uses the phrase "Don't Worry" all the time. I keep saying to myself "Be happy" in my best Bobby McFerrin voice all the time in response. :-)

This was the book that introduced me to programming. I have read though others since this one, but this was by far the best book for those that don't know how to program. It does only one thing, teach you the language of C. It does NOT teach you how to really put it to use. But if you don't fully understand the tool you are using, how can you put it to use. This book WILL teach you the language of C, after reading this book move onto the books that teach you how to use the language in the environment of your choice. This book will give you the foundation to allow you to focus on the concepts of programming discussed in other books rather then trying to learn both a language and how to use it.

To comment on another reader input about no mention of graphics or sound, this book is for ANSI C which does NOT include those. You can work about it, but ANSI C is doesn't include it, although just about every compiler can do it. Second, regarding Windows, Schildt openly says in the beginning the book is not designed to teach Windows. Maybe someone needs to learn to read? It will give you the foundation for just about everything you need. I picked this book up at my local library (original edition) in January of 1996 knowing only Turbo Pascal, I didn't even know how to print my name on the screen in C. When I pick up a new programming book that is the first thing I want to know how to do. Schildt told this in the first few pages. He is VERY clear and gives working examples. I currently own about 10 of his books. I've read books by numerous other authors on C and C++, and Herb is the only author that can explain things well. Within a half hour of reading his book, I was able to the basics of programming. I do have previous experience, but NOT in C. He is the most clear and concise author I've ever bought a book from. Well worth the money