database-driven websites

Building Dynamic Web 2.0 Websites with Ruby on Rails: Create database-driven dynamic websites with this open-source web application framework
$34.99
Boy, I wish I had a chance to see the reviews here before I bought this book. I very rarely take the time to post a review, but this book is the most disappointing technical book I've read in all my memory.

As a concept is introduced, it starts with a small example and builds on it. But every time a new line is added to the example, the entire example is reproduced. Within a few pages the examples are taking an entire page of text; almost exactly the same text that was on the previous page.

The code formatting is inconsistent, showing a lack of care by the author and proofreader.

At times new concepts are introduced with no explanation, leaving the reader to wonder if it was a typo or not.

The prose is oddly formal and excruciatingly verbose. Sentences are constantly repeated in slightly different ways. English is clearly not the strong suit of the author, which can be fine if a solid editor is involved. Unfortunately, that's not the case here.

I'll admit I only got a few chapters in before I gave up in order to retain my sanity. It struck me as odd that in a book so thin (which can be a great thing in a technical book - K&R's C book a prime example), the author appeared to be attempting to stretch it out as far as he could go.

Anyway, listen to the other reviews on this site and pick up _Agile Web Development with Rails_ instead - I bought a pdf of the latest beta of the 3rd edition, and it's excellent.

Build Your Own Database Driven Website Using PHP & MySQL
$39.95
This book was great! It helped step through the basic and not so basic aspects of mysql and how it relates to php. The examples were easy to follow, but not condescending. It was helpful to have online access to the code. I really enjoyed the fact that he would give you enough information to understand the concept, but then had you figure things out on your own before giving the rest of the program. I have been impressed at the detail and helpfulness of this book.