When working as a programmer, it's really easy to continue coding in the same manner you have done since you picked up a language and made your first program.
The saying: "Why fix it if it ain't broken?" comes to mind...
I for one sometimes fail to move with the times (unknowingly to me) and find new and better ways of coding. It's only on the off chance I get introduced to different approaches through my work colleague or whilst Googling for an answer to one of my coding queries.
After reading some rave reviews on C# In Depth, written by the one and only Stackoverflow god: Jon Skeet. I decided to part with my hard earned money and make a purchase.
C# In Depth is different from other programming books I've read on C#. In fact it's really good and don't let the title of the book deter you. The contents is ideal for novice and semi-experienced programmers.
Firstly, you start off by being shown code samples on how C# has evolved through its iterations (v1 - v4). In most cases I gave myself a gratifying pat on the back when I noticed the approaches I've taken in my own projects utilised practises and features of the current language. ;-)
Secondly, unlike some programming books I've read in the past, it's not intimidating to read at all. Jon Skeet really has a great way to talk about some concepts I find difficult to comprehend in a clear a meaningful way, so I could utilise these concepts within my current applications.
The only minor niggle I have is that there were a few places where I would have liked specific chapters to go into more detail. On the other hand, it gave me the opportunity to research the nitty-gritty details for myself.
Since I purchased this book, I found myself referencing it many times and appreciating what C# has to offer along with it misconstrued and underused features.
All in all, the author truly has a gift in clearly demonstrating his understanding on the subject with finesse and if I am able to comprehend even one-tenth of his knowledge, I will be a happy man.
