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Is JavaScript Ninja for me ?

 
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My background: I have been a java/j2ee developer for 6 years now and javascript in my view was something that got in the way of finishing my tasks. Something I would always go in with the attitude of "biting the bullet" and just write those darn elementary functions to validate my view etc.

Obviously things have changed, it seems Javascript has become more organized over the years. There are libraries like PrototypeJS and jQuery. And I have a new job that compels me to finally jump in learn this stuff.

I obviously need to understand basics of JS methodologies, does the book discuss them. Also I hear at work that Prototype is past its prime because it modifies core objects that result in problems down the line. I guess what I'm trying to get at is would this book be a good jumping point for a experienced programmer who is only a novice at JavaScript.


Also, the book cover says Ninja, but shows us a Samurai I think. I know some people would not be happy with that (have they fought against each other at some time ?) . Though I will let this be since it does not bother me and more so because over the years at Java Ranch I have come to realize that you don't poke THE BEAR.
 
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Pranav Sharma wrote:I obviously need to understand basics of JS methodologies, does the book discuss them


If you are a complete JavaScript novice, then this is not the first book for you. The book assumes at least basic JavaScript knowledge and then explains all those things about JavaScript that most people never seem to find out on their own.

Also I hear at work that Prototype is past its prime


I agree with this assessment. Prototype was great in its day, but it's not aged well.

I'm a big fan of jQuery (obviously) and it's the library I would recommend.

Also, the book cover says Ninja, but shows us a Samurai I think.


Yeah, I mentioned this in another post. Manning's collection of costumed people apparently doesn't include a ninja, so a samurai is as close as we get!

I have come to realize that you don't poke THE BEAR.


A wise man!
 
Pranav Sharma
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Bear,
Congratulations to John and you on your latest book.

Also, any recommendations for me. Something to get me up and running on Javascript. Thanks.
 
Bear Bibeault
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Both "Head First JavaScript" and "JavaScript: The Good Parts" are good choices in my opinion.
 
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Also I hear at work that Prototype is past its prime



I agree with this assessment. Prototype was great in its day, but it's not aged well.



Could you please clarify this statement with more technical details?
 
Bear Bibeault
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In my opinion Prototype's strategy of modifying the DOM and JavaScript elements under the covers is old-fashioned and, while it was an interesting idea, ended up being fraught with problems. For example, in a previous job where we used Prototype, the changes it made to the JavaScript Array caused bugs that took us days and days to find. Other issues with its intrusive approach caused other problems and headaches, including one bug that we never really solved and had to jump through hoops to work around.
 
Sujoy Choudhury
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Thanks Bear!
 
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