java

...that a tutorial software written to teach Java would be written IN Java, instead of machine-dependent code. This defeats the entire purpose of Java being platform independent.

I wouldn't say, "No, don't get this kit," based on that alone, but it was a big disapointment to see this wonderful kit only work on Windows.

So I gave it 3 stars instead of 5.

After starting and putting down a dozen of the most popular "learn Java" books I have finally found a presentation that works!

Not only was I not scared away by the exercises at the end of the chapters, I was actually challenged and pleased to find that I could do every coding exercise with the knowledge I had gained in that chapter.

It takes time and effort but it does work!

I have no prior programming experience. I highly recommend this book for any beginner.

This package includes the book Java How to Program 5th edition and the Java Multimedia Cyber Classroom. A highly interactive electronic version of the book that takes learning to the next level.

I found this training course to be very useful for refreshing my Java knowledge, as well as catching up on JSP, servlets and new classes in Java 2.
Having the text both in book format (for when I am not studying at my computer), as well as the fully searchable and interactive HTML format with multimedia contents and Internet links, is great; also, there are several software goodies that come with the package, such as the Tomcat server and the Sun ONE environment.
The self review exercises and assessment exams at the end of each chapter are a fun (and challenging, thinking of the Hanoi Tower now!) way to validate the understanding of the Java concepts one has just studied.
Finally, I think the first chapters are a clear introduction to general programming concepts for the less experienced reader, with plenty of samples, exercises and links to more information. Definitely recommended.