newbie

[Zach Elfers]

I'm a newbie to Java, and I was wondering what would be the best book to read to learn this language.

[javacalc]

Hi,
I'm not an expert by any means, but I would strongly recommend taking a class if at all possible. Also, check out the book Big Java. I heard that is a great book. A book I can recommend from experience is Java 2: The Complete Reference, Fifth Edition by Herbert Schildt. That book is great once you are on your feet. I'm assuming his "newbie" java books are equally as informational. Hope that helps. Check amazon.com for good deals on these books. Java 2: The Complete Reference, Fifth Edition is 50 bucks at other stores, but I got mine off amazon for 35. Have fun.

[finder83]

I learned from Java, Java, Java from Prentice Hall publishing...a very good book, and it's used in alot of classes is the US. It doesn't delve very deep, but gives you an amazing foundation, and allows you to continue into much more difficult ideas. Also, tutorials are a great way to learn, but nothing beats a good book.

[xylex_blaiste]

i would suggest you get Deitel & Deitel's book, Java How to Program: Introducing Swing. this was what i used when i started java a couple of years ago. get the latest edition. it helped me a lot. this is being published by Prentice Hall so i guess you also visit their site or Deitel's.