Starting Out with Java: From Control Structures through Data Structures is designed to be used in a 2 or 3 semester/quarter sequence for beginning programmers. Tony Gaddis emphasizes problem-solving and program design by teaching the Java programming language through a step-by-step detailed presentation. He introduces procedural programming early and covers control structures and methods before objects.  Students are engaged and have plenty of opportunity to practice using programming concepts through practical tools that include end-of-section and chapter exercises, case studies and programming projects.   

Customer Reviews & Comments
If you're new to programming and are considering which book to buy, it is essential to consider that many good books (such as Head First Java, Core Java, Just Java, and The Java Tutorial) are meant for experienced programmers who need insight into Java's more complicated concepts. These aren't textbooks for students. But Tony Gaddis's books are, and this book is no exception; in fact, it is the best Java textbook I have ever bought. This book is loaded with examples, exercises, case studies, and projects. It has everything from loops to linked lists, and it does not neglect GUIs by placing GUI topics to an optional section at the end of the chapter or in the last chapters of the book. This book will also serve you well as a reference book and as preparation for the SCJP certificate. I have also bought Gaddis's Starting Out with C++ From Control Structures through Objects, 5th Edition, and I am quite willing to recommend, sight unseen, any book that Gaddis writes. Comment | Permalink | (Report this)