In the appendix section there is a list of Java resources, including the Java SIG (national special interest group) and local Java user groups. As the Web is a rapidly changing environment, this part is already a little outdated. The most current information and pointers to Java-related material are found at the web site of JavaSoft itself (http://www.javasoft.com) or in the Gamelan directory (http://www.gamelan.com). The next appendix contains a reference for the Java API. It only lists classes, fields and methods without commenting on them or giving any enhancing graphical description. I prefer to consult Sun's original documentation, available on the Web at the JavaSoft site. A Java language grammar, installation instructions for the JDK, a Java glossary, and the description of the included book CD conclude the appendices.

"Special Edition Using Java" is written in a reference style. The chapters on the Java language are dense with technical facts and source code providing comprehensive and valuable information on the subject. You can dive into one special topic, exploring and understanding it in detail. When appropriate, online references are frequently given. One small disadvantage is the missing book bibliography. I think mentioning a few good books on a particular topic (object-orientation, for example) would have enhanced the value of the text, particularly when a subject is covered only briefly.

This book is not meant as a Java tutorial for a novice. A thorough and well-explained introduction into object-oriented software development is missing, although object-oriented design concepts are talked about several times in the book. In my opinion, this book is for intermediate and advanced readers already familiar with a programming language. The book contains a lot of material on advanced topics meant for more experienced Java users, such as security issues, mixing Java with native code, networking, JDBC (Java Database Connectivity), and Virtual Reality.

You may also want to visit Macmillan Publishing's QUE Web page at: http://www.mcp.com/que for a complete online-copy of this book including an integrated search engine for your convenience. The on-line version is not as well edited as the real book, though; for example, sometimes elements like figures are missing and the source code is mostly in underlined font. However, the on-line copy gives you a quick overview of the book's contents and you could easily make up your mind if buying the book is worthwhile. There is also a forum available on CompuServe (QUEBOOKS). You may send feedback and support queries to the publisher via Internet (mcierzniak@que.mcp.com) or CompuServe (76245,476).

"Special Edition Using Java" contains a large amount of material about and around Java. If you want to brush up your knowledge on a particular subject, this might be the right book for you. It is especially valuable as a reference work for experienced software developers interested in Java. Moreover, the included CD, with its extra information on surrounding topics, gives you added value for your money.