Head First HTML with CSS & XHTML

  Author:    Elisabeth Freeman, Eric Freeman
  ISBN:    059610197X
  Sales Rank:    1795
  Published:    2005-12-01
  Publisher:    O'Reilly Media, Inc.
  # Pages:    504
  Binding:    Paperback
  Avg. Rating:    5.0 based on 221 reviews
  Used Offers:    34 from $23.71
  Amazon Price:    $26.39
  (Data above last updated:  2008-07-08 07:41:36 EST)
  
  
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Head First HTML with CSS & XHTML
  
Tired of reading HTML books that only make sense after you're an expert? Then it's about time you picked up Head First HTML with CSS & XHTML and really learned HTML. You want to learn HTML so you can finally create those web pages you've always wanted, so you can communicate more effectively with friends, family, fans, and fanatic customers. You also want to do it right so you can actually maintain and expand your Web pages over time, and so your web pages work in all the browsers and mobile devices out there. Oh, and if you've never heard of CSS, that's okay - we won't tell anyone you're still partying like it's 1999 - but if you're going to create Web pages in the 21st century then you'll want to know and understand CSS.

Learn the real secrets of creating Web pages, and why everything your boss told you about HTML tables is probably wrong (and what to do instead). Most importantly, hold your own with your co-worker (and impress cocktail party guests) when he casually mentions how his HTML is now strict, and his CSS is in an external style sheet.

With Head First HTML with CSS & XHTML, you'll avoid the embarrassment of thinking web-safe colors still matter, and the foolishness of slipping a font tag into your pages. Best of all, you'll learn HTML and CSS in a way that won't put you to sleep. If you've read a Head First book, you know what to expect: a visually-rich format designed for the way your brain works. Using the latest research in neurobiology, cognitive science, and learning theory, this book will load HTML, CSS, and XHTML into your brain in a way that sticks.

So what are you waiting for? Leave those other dusty books behind and come join us in Webville. Your tour is about to begin.

"Elegant design is at the core of every chapter here, each concept conveyed with equal doses of pragmatism and wit." --Ken Goldstein, Executive Vice President, Disney Online

"This book is a thoroughly modern introduction to forward-looking practices in web page markup and presentation." --Danny Goodman, author of Dynamic HTML: The Definitive Guide

"What used to be a long trial and error learning process has now been reduced neatly into an engaging paperback." --Mike Davidson, CEO, Newsvine, Inc.

"I love Head First HTML with CSS & XHTML--it teaches you everything you need to learn in a 'fun coated' format!" --Sally Applin, UI Designer and Artist

"I haven't had as much fun reading a book (other than Harry Potter) in years. And your book finally helped me break out of my hapless so-last-century way of creating web pages." --Professor David M. Arnow, Department of Computer and Information Science, Brooklyn College

"If you've ever had a family member who wanted you to design a website for them, buy them Head First HTML with CSS and XHTML. If you've ever asked a family member to design you a web site, buy this book. If you've ever bought an HTML book and ended up using it to level your desk, or for kindling on a cold winter day, buy this book. This is the book you've been waiting for. This is the learning system you've been waiting for." --Warren Kelly, Blogcritics.org

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07-03-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  A Fun Entry-Level Tome on Standards-Based Web Site Development
Reviewer Permalink
I teach college courses on Web development that emphasize Web standards and usability. This is one of only two entry-level (X)HTML + CSS books that I will recommend to students.

"Head First.." is a fun and lively book that is very much aimed at ordinary folks who are having a hard time figuring this stuff out. It's pleasurable scenarios and tongue-in-cheek humor push learning toward the authentic and affective.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-05 05:59:23 EST)
06-25-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great, fast read. Want to give 5-stars...
Reviewer Permalink
I read this book from cover to cover, doing most of the exercises. Knowing HTML previously but new to CSS this was a wonderful introduction.

My only wish that could make it better is if the index was more comprehensive. As I started to create my own pages based on the learning, it was difficult to refer back to ideas because the index does not list many things. It's a pain to then search page-by-page in the chapter.

This is my only issue. I actually love this book!

(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-04 09:04:18 EST)
06-20-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great Book but...
Reviewer Permalink
This is a great book for anyone wanting to learn HTML and more. I'm usually someone who needs to have hands on training in order to learn but this book makes me feel as though I'm in a classroom. It's well written and makes learning an otherwise dull topic fun. The only bad thing is the binding on it is coming off. This started right out of the box. Unfortunately, hearing from others taking the same online course, this seems to be a recurring theme with this publisher's books. Content of book is great though and that's what counts!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-26 07:14:51 EST)
06-20-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great Book!
Reviewer Permalink
This is a great book for anyone wanting to learn HTML and more. I'm usually someone who needs to have hands on training in order to learn but this book makes me feel as though I'm in a classroom. It's well written and makes learning an otherwise dull topic fun. Highly recommend!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-23 01:14:23 EST)
06-20-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  I love this book!
Reviewer Permalink
I've been using HTML for quite a while, but I really didn't understand it -- largely because I couldn't bring myself to care. I just used my cheat sheet a lot.
Having worked through thsi book, I understand it all well enough to remember it.
This is the first book in the Head First series that I've used, and I hesitated because of the price. I already had an HTML book, and it seemed like an extravagance. It is absolutely worth it.
Now that I've emoted over it, let me describe the book for you.
It's like a good language book. This is very sensible, since HTML is a language of a sort, but I've never seen it before.
Instead of big blocks of code you're supposed to copy, the book works through concepts and patterns, with plenty of exercises and graphics to clarify it all before you're expected to take it to the keyboard.
There is an element of cuteness here, but it's sharp, not silly, and there is nothing extraneous. The entire book is designed to work with the way human brains learn information.
You'll work through everything from basic structures to getting your pages on the web to CSS. The natural "Wouldn't it be easier to...?" objections are presented, with explanations of why taking early shortcuts leads to regrets later. This is a good alternative to trial and error.
I'm going to order my next Head First book right away.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-26 07:14:51 EST)
06-19-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  A really wonderful tutorial, with a poor binding
Reviewer Permalink
I really like the approach as a tutorial. It is an excellent introduction to HTML / CSS / XHTML. I am repeatedly amazed at the considerable thought that must have gone into the presentation of the material. The exercises are clever and the tone is engaging. From Chapters 1 -15, the tutorial progressively ramps you up and has you doing hands-on along the way. It gives you confidence.

The only aggravation is that by Chapter 10, sections of pages started to come undone from the binding. At over 650 pages, the book is a heavyweight. The binding seems too constricting for it. At first, it resisted staying open. Once it "relaxed", it began to slowly separate. It progressed to whole clumps of pages coming unglued from the binding and detaching. Other books have given me years of like-new service, but this one will soon be unusable.

I gave the book only 4 stars because it is falling apart. Actually, I would rate it this way: Book content, approach and presentation=5 stars. Binding=0 stars. At over $26, a book ought to hold together, at least long enough to read through it once.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-26 07:14:51 EST)
06-18-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Up and Running
Reviewer Permalink
At first it seemed a little silly with the cartoonish images and handwritten notes, I found them a bit distracting. But after reading further in and doing the exercises I began learning and retaining the lessons. I went from down and crawling to up and running in a very short time. The concept really worked for me.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-20 07:25:22 EST)
06-15-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great book
Reviewer Permalink
I'm a Java developer specializing in business logic that has always gotten hung up on the UI portion of web applications. This book is great for understanding the fundamentals.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-19 07:34:37 EST)
06-15-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Manifico Book
Reviewer Permalink
My Sombrero OFF to all the people who help create this book.
Lots of thoughts and effort are put on every page layout
I have over one year of vb under my belt but no html experience.
I love this book ! Its funny and does not beat around the bush wen it comes
to explaining the codes (tags). Does not read like a technical manual and the pictures keep your Mind interested in the subject at hand.
This book is mainly for people like me with very little understanding of html. if you have read books or have build web in html then this one is not for you.
Did I Mention, this book Ticle your funny bone at times.
PS. I leave this book on my coffee table, so every morning I can look at that great smiling face...LOL..

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO GET YOUR FEET WET ON HTML THIS ONE IS FOR YOU ! !

Happy Shopping

HOSE A
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-19 07:34:37 EST)
06-13-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Clear, easy and accessible reading.
Reviewer Permalink
I am only adding to all the good things that have already been said about this book. The book was never overwhelming nor intimidating. It broke down concepts in way even the most amateur of people could understand. And, the reading was actually a little entertaining.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-16 07:17:27 EST)
05-20-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Excellent and entertaining
Reviewer Permalink
I found this book to be both clearly and entertainingly written. It provides a well paced foundation in XHTML and CSS. Highly recommended.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-14 07:24:02 EST)
05-16-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Finally an HTML/XHTML/CSS book that I could make it all the way through!
Reviewer Permalink
I have just finished -- from page 1 to 649 -- learning HTML, XTML, and CSS while having fun and actually being able to create a great looking website from scratch.

For years, I've used Dreamweaver and Flash to design websites. My clients loved my designs and were totally impressed with my sites, but something was missing in my life. I really wanted to learn what it was that I actually was doing. What did all that code mean? Could I be more efficient?

You can tell how many times I tried to learn HTML by the number of books on that subject on my shelves. They have all sorts of publication dates and some of them are just various editions of the same book! I started to read each of them with all good intentions but I'd bog down and never get to the part where they put it all together. It wasn't their fault. I learn by example, not by explanation.

Head First HTML with CSS & XHTML is amazing. I was hooked at the very first page. It's not often that you read, let alone laugh, through a table of contents! The authors have fun with the subject and give you the information in various ways. Concepts may be discussed several times, but never in the same format. I learned so much! Now I'm taking apart the code of some of my websites and turning it into simple, elegant code that is much more efficient.

The only thing that I found that I really wanted in this book was an introduction to how JavaScript works in this environment. I know there is another book in the series, Head First JavaScript, that I will be buying soon, but it would be nice to have more than a few paragraphs at the end of the HTML book about the use of JavaScript in the XHTML/CSS environment since it is used a lot in sites.

Kudos to Eric & Elisabeth (and their hard working staff). I am looking forward to seeing the next books in their series -- perhaps Head First Web Design?
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-21 07:27:21 EST)
05-16-08 1 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  scattered and pointless
Reviewer Permalink
The presentation of information in this book is absolutely terrible. The layout is totally disjointed with arrows, lines, balloons, etc. To be fair, it does contain a good amount of information, if you have the patience to logically organize it yourself. So many other good sources to learn from, pass right by this book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-21 07:27:21 EST)
04-22-08 2 2\5
(Hide Review...)  style over substance
Reviewer Permalink
This is the first "head first" book I've read, and unfortunately it will probably be my last.

I actually don't have a problem with the material covered in the book. It seems pretty complete. But to me, having to wade through all the "cutsie-poo" little pictures and notes and jokes and all that just leads to a book that is difficult to pick up and find the info you need. I suppose if your goal is to be amused, then by all means pick up this book. But if what you are trying to do is learn so that you can accomplish something in an effecient way, then I'd definitely buy something different.

I'll leave the "head first" book to the teens, I want my medicine "straight up" and strong, not watered down like this.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-19 07:21:22 EST)
04-22-08 2 0\1
(Hide Review...)  style over substance
Reviewer Permalink
This is the first "head first" book I've read, and unfortunately it will probably be my last.

I actually don't have a problem with the material covered in the book. It seems pretty complete. But to me, having to wade through all the "cutsie-poo" little pictures and notes and jokes and all that just leads to a book that is difficult to pick up and find the info you need. I suppose that if you were reading this on a bus, or in a plane, or a little light reading before you go to bed, this could be a kind of pleasant way to read. But if you really want to learn things effeciently, and have a book that you can refer back to often, for me this is a terrible style for that.

I'll leave the "head first" book to the teens, I want my medicine "straight up" and strong, not watered down like this.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-29 07:35:39 EST)
04-19-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Want to learn HTML and CSS...This is THE BOOK.
Reviewer Permalink
When I became interested in starting my website, www.stevechambers.com, I wanted to learn the basics behind the code so I could get my web pages looking as close as possible to how I wanted them to look. I first tried some free HTML tutorials on the web, then purchased several different books before happening upon this one. Far and away, this is the book to use to learn the basics of HTML and CSS.

While this is not a reference book I have it sitting on my desk every single time I code. It will teach you HTML & CSS in a fun manner, and will clarify the often dry reference material you will use after you complete this book.

If you are on the web in any capacity you should know some code. This is the book to use to learn it.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-23 07:09:56 EST)
04-10-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  A fantastic book that is easy to follow with great explainations
Reviewer Permalink
This book stands above the other HTML books that I've read. It's explainations are easy to follow and complete. The examples are fun and you will learn XHTML and CSS so well that you'll be designing clean and effective websites in no time.

Unlike other HTML books where authors have you copy their information and expect you to follow along, with Head First the skills you learn will be yours.

Highly recommended!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-20 07:01:26 EST)
04-07-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great for beginners and to actually LEARN how to make websites
Reviewer Permalink
This book was excellent in providing the background, the "why, what and how" of HTML. Not just a boring book, but a step by step guide to making a nice website, with everything you want to know.
I really liked the way it's written, because it's not just hard facts but written with a lot of humor.

If you're searching for a book that is actually nice to read, it's great. If you just want to look things up about HTML, I'd buy a handbook.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-11 07:21:28 EST)
04-05-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  An Excellent read!
Reviewer Permalink
A lot of tech books ive read in the past i have had trouble following, but not this one. This was my first Head First book and it completely sold me on them. It was super easy to follow and actually enjoyable to read. The authors silly antics made it read more like a novel vs a tech book. I definitely recommend this book for anyone wanting to learn XHTML and CSS.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-08 07:11:23 EST)
03-26-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Head First HTML with CSS &XHTML
Reviewer Permalink
This is by far the best intro book for html, css, and xhtml. In fact who would believe that that an instructional computer language book would be enticing enough to lure you back after a session of study because it was fun...

Who said that...

Did I say that?!?!

If you would have asked me before this book if that was possible I would have thought not. In the past books on topics such as this resulted in a fine night's sleep after a few pages. This one kept me up at night thinking so there you go one of the down sides is, it is not an effective sleeping aid. To those just starting to learn these skills I highly recommend the W3C schools free tutorials to accompany this book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-06 07:14:25 EST)
03-25-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Very rich, but accessible
Reviewer Permalink
I found the Head First HTML, CSS, and XHTML book to be very well written for a beginner to grasp these concepts. If you are already familiar with web authoring, this is not the book for you. If you aren't sure what a tag is, or what the point of content sheets, this would be the best book to start with.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-06 07:14:25 EST)
03-17-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Very Good Introductory Book
Reviewer Permalink
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the relaxed writing style and the many examples used to bring home the essential points of HTML. I'm sure I will continue to use it as a quick reference point.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-03-26 07:18:24 EST)
03-17-08 1 0\1
(Hide Review...)  Not even for beginners
Reviewer Permalink
It's glitzy and pretty and empty. I was trying to learn about internal anchors in documents and I could find nothing of value except cute images and non-explanations. I went back to my old brute-force 1995 methods and they worked. The verbiage and pictures don't refresh anyone's memory, they contribute nothing to it.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-03-26 07:18:24 EST)
03-10-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  good the beginner
Reviewer Permalink
this is a good introduction book for beginner who intend to learn CSS and DHTML
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-03-18 06:58:22 EST)
03-03-08 5 0\2
(Hide Review...)  Head First HTML with CSS & XHTML
Reviewer Permalink
I got a second shipment of that same book, which I did not order. I returned it, per instructions and was told by Amazon I would not be charged for it. Upon receiving my bank statement, it appears I was charged for that 2nd book, which I did not order and returned. I am now bummed and cautious!

Sandy Gage
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-03-12 22:38:57 EST)
02-26-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Fantastic Book
Reviewer Permalink
I finished this book in only a few weeks it was so engaging. I couldn't believe a book on code could be that interesting and I was able to jump right in to designing pages and using the book as a reference.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-03-03 07:42:22 EST)
02-23-08 1 0\4
(Hide Review...)  a no no
Reviewer Permalink
i bought this item because the reviews were great. then i returned the item 3 days later. this book is not for regular people. it is written as if the reader has just seen the computer a month ago and doesnt even know how the web works.it wastes a lot of time explaining in layman terms. and i dont know if it is a html book or how the web or business works tutorial. even on that it fails miserably.if u dont have a simplest of ideas abt computer or web, this is not the one to start. and if u have some, this is not where u would want to start.for someone who has some ideas, there are lot of better books out there.it would not be ethical to name them here. write me if u want the names. one better way is to do some research . some websites, they allow u to see some sample pages from the book. even a couple of pages, and u will know how goood the book is.

if u belong to the other half, the ones who are trying to get into the computer and web world,its not a good idea to go to designing webpages right away. if u want a webpage just for fun/hobby or really small businesses and have a really small budget, there are lots of sites out there who provide real html templates for prices lesser than this book.
i can tell u some if u write me. again its not right to advertise someone here.u can do some research. u will find plenty.or u can go to a website that resembles ur ideal site, click on the "page" tab of ur browser window and click on "view source". on the new text window that opens, u can find the designer's web site address.

(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-27 07:18:21 EST)
02-19-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Head First, Over and Over again
Reviewer Permalink
I love this book, it is very well written. This book does not follow the normal trend of today's textbooks. This is a fantastic interactive learning book. I will definitely be picking up some more of these "Head First" books. Think HTML for dummies, ITS AWESOME!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-23 15:41:30 EST)
02-16-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good Introduction to HTML and CSS
Reviewer Permalink
If you're a newbie looking for step-by-step training in coding with HTML and CSS, this is your book. Funny, entertaining, and clearly written, it patiently walks you through the process of crafting web pages. The one drawback I might mention is that because the book deliberately leads you down blind alleys in order to make you back up and do things correctly, it's a bigger book than it needs to be for the purpose. If you're a "cut the crap, get to the point" kind of learner, this might not appeal.

Also, it gives only an introduction to CSS. There's much more to CSS than this book shows, because it's intended as an introductory course. You'll need another book (I recommend O'Reilly's "HTML & XHTML") to serve as a comprehensive reference.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-20 07:28:25 EST)
02-11-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great start for beginners!
Reviewer Permalink
This book has a funny way, yet clear way to introduce to difficult
topic of HTML. It's easy to follow and each detail is explained for the analytical mind! I would recommend this book for a beginner who enjoys a humorous way of learning!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-17 12:49:38 EST)
02-09-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Super Book
Reviewer Permalink
This is the clearest, BEST book on computer programming that I've ever come across; GREAT to read. Makes me want to use graphics and pictures in my own writing!!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-14 21:16:44 EST)
02-08-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  The best possible introductory book to HTML and CSS
Reviewer Permalink
I'm already a veteran in HTML and CSS topics, anyway I just got this book just for curiosity (I already own other books in the 'Head First' series) and to my surprise the book is damn funny and really well written, maybe one of the best books in the Head First series.

Just to give you an idea about how easy and how good it is: my sister (who just uses the computer for chat and email) is coding HTML!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-14 21:16:44 EST)
02-08-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Taking a College level HTML class
Reviewer Permalink
I'm taking a College level HTML class, and the instructor is using this book to teach us. It is the most enjoyable text book I've ever had to read for a class. I like it's casual style with lots of "hands on", "real world" examples. Plus, it has color!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-14 21:16:44 EST)
02-05-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  With more than 190 reviews theres nothing to say except...
Reviewer Permalink
With more than 190 reviews theres nothing to say except that this was the best buy I've ever made.

Enjoy.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-14 21:16:44 EST)
01-30-08 3 0\1
(Hide Review...)  BEGINNER BOOK
Reviewer Permalink
This book is definitely for beginners. I found about 2 pages of pertinent/usable information on xhtml, I think the title of the book should remove the xhtml statement imho. It's style is a bit "young", meaning there is no serious tone to the book, probably good for someone with A.D.D syndrome :) I am giving this book 3 stars because it does, in fact, contain all the basics for html web design and it keeps it very simple. I took away 2 stars because I was expecting a more advanced book with more css + xhtml and the format was somewhat aimed at a younger audience.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-14 21:16:44 EST)
01-20-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Good explanation!
Reviewer Permalink
I would consider myself an intermediate HTML writer. This is a great book for people like me or beginners. The book provides explanations for things to help with a deeper understanding of HTML and CSS. The style of this book is easy to read and understand. I find the information really sticks with me. This book is not about Web design or usability, the creative side is left to you.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-01-31 07:17:29 EST)
01-09-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  A brilliant book for HTML beginner
Reviewer Permalink
This book is really brilliant. It includes everything a beginner should know about HTML, XHTML and CSS. I learned from this book a lot of things which I thought that I already knew, but I didn't know. The book is written in format, very different from every other format of the book I read so far. It is very easy to read and very clear written. Images, photos and simple examples makes it even more interesting. I just hope that majority of the books from Head First are written so well.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-01-21 07:44:26 EST)
01-07-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  HTML for really the beginners
Reviewer Permalink
This is a must-have book for really the beginners. If you don't know where to begin with HTML, you shouldn't miss this book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-01-10 10:40:42 EST)
01-02-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  An excellent place to start learning the concepts
Reviewer Permalink
I've been working with HTML for years, and for the first time, I find a book that actually describes everything easily. This is one of the few books that makes learning entertaining.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-01-08 07:45:50 EST)
12-30-07 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Wonderful and interesting presentation of the material
Reviewer Permalink
When I first flipped through the pages of this book I was highly skeptical. It looked more like a comic book than a technical manual. I decided to give it a shot and I was extremely happy I did.

The material in here is very comprehensive (from a beginner's perspective). They even state right in the front that for a complete reference of the material you would need a secondary book.

As far as teaching the material the book layout is second to none. The more complex topics like "CSS layout" I found to be very well presented and I feel like I learned the material completely and can now apply it to my own Web site projects.

Additionally, the book is extremely entertaining to read with interesting photos, captions and side bars.

I wouldn't really compare this with the "...Dummies" series of books. The Dummies books suck (for lack of a better word) and are not humorous at all. This book is genuinely entertaining and you will probably find it hard to put down, just like it was some fascinating novel.

Recommended all the way!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-01-02 07:56:31 EST)
12-19-07 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Broke the learning obstacle
Reviewer Permalink
OK, I am not that bright. I have accumulated about 6 books now on (x)html and css. Most of the books seem to be good. Nevertheless, I just could not even begin to digest them without first getting a handle on the CSS topic which only this "Heads First" version was able to provide me. It had great progression of the topics, easy to understand, challenging quizzes, and great encourangement by the authors. Yes, it is a beggining book. But it is a super well done intial text book on the subject. I also heard from others that the "Head First" series are very good. Though I can not imagine the others can be as well done as this one.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-12-31 07:41:33 EST)
12-13-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Wonderful book, super easy to read!
Reviewer Permalink
I could not believe the ease with which I was able to learn HTML and CSS. I had a through understanding of both concepts by the time I was through with the book. I love the humor and all of the pictures, as each one helps the reader to understand the concepts presented. The projects are enjoyable and relevant!

I did not know anything about HTML or CSS when I started, but by the time I completed this book, I took a website that I built with Adobe GoLive, and completely re-did it with hand-written HTML and CSS with no problem.

I cannot wait for Head First's book on JavaScript to be released. You better believe that I'll buy it. These books are awesome!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-12-20 07:49:37 EST)
12-12-07 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good book for beginners
Reviewer Permalink
Fun and interactive book for beginning Web designers. Even if you don't know HTML and CSS but are computer-savvy it's a bit slow at the beginning. But it then picks up and has you working on all kinds of projects that will help you in real-world situations. However, good luck later on finding specific commands using the index. It doesn't go into enough detail so you'll have to use the table of contents to find the command you're looking for.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-12-20 07:49:37 EST)
12-07-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great way to learn HTML
Reviewer Permalink
This is an excellent book. the author takes you step by step through the process of creating a web page with excellent examples and samples throughout. Each chapter is concise and to the point. I found myself going back to it often as it does a great job of giving you many options of ways things can be done besides the ways presented in the samples. The best way to learn HTML and CSS is right here.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-12-16 07:53:48 EST)
11-26-07 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  My Rave is Kind of Drop in the Bucket Here. . .
Reviewer Permalink
Every single one of the glowing reviews on this site is spot-on. There really isn't much I can say that will add anything new here, but I will say that this book and its methods made HTML, XHTML and CSS crystal clear to me. Other books I read on the subject were helpful, but the whole CSS thing just wasn't "clicking." CSS seemed cumbersome, awkward, and I was wondering if I would ever be able to understand it. Well, not only did I learn it, I went from knowing next to nothing when the book arrived October 25, 2007 to being able to design and code stylish web pages that meet HTML 4.01 Strict standards - by November 12, 2007. I have read a lot of instruction guides/textbooks, but I have NEVER read a book even remotely like this. I can't recommend it highly enough without blathering on like a giddy idiot. This book, coupled with Don't Make Me Think: A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability, 2nd Edition are two must-haves in any aspiring web developer's library. Thanks to both, I no longer feel I'm just "muddling through."
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-12-14 16:23:52 EST)
11-25-07 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  Amazing Beginner book!
Reviewer Permalink
This book was amazing! i read it in one weekend and i have my site up and running now! Good for future reference as well to go back and look up some example code. It definitely is a great buy! Highly recommend it.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-12-14 16:23:52 EST)
11-24-07 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  If you want to understand HTML, XHTML and CSS, buy this book.
Reviewer Permalink
For years I have maintained my own table based web site using FrontPage and Dreamweaver. Having decided to convert the site to XHTML and CSS (and also understand a bit better what I was doing) I bought a couple of books on CSS. They turned my brain numb. I could NOT understand what, where or why any of it worked and I'd decided I was incapable of ever learning it until I came across Head First HTML, (thanks, [...]!). Having started from the very basics in Chapter 1 I finally understand it!! The book is totally amazing. At the end of every chapter I think, so THAT's how it works and because I now know the how and the why of it all, I remember it. Also, because they use so many visual aids, I have a sort of background mental picture of the structure of a site, into which all those previously incomprehensible
s and s fit in an ordered and logical way. BUY IT.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-12-14 16:23:52 EST)
11-17-07 3 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Fantastic book, Lousy index, full of blather
Reviewer Permalink
We're using this book in a college course I'm taking. This book contains a massive amount of REALLY good information, which has been buried in a landslide of unnecessary blather. Add to this the complete lack of a sensible, extensive index, and this book leaves me so frustrated, I am nearly ready to drop the class. (see below..)

The vast amount of useful information in the book makes it difficult to remember it all at one time. But it's impossible to refer back and find something a week after I've read it without leafing through an entire chapter or more, page by page, because the index is so brief and incomplete.

With a good, complete index, I'd give this book 4.5 stars for it's excellent content (withholding 1/2 star for all the blather). Without a usable index, the book is nearly worthless to me.

GOOD NEWS UPDATE!! The O'Reilly people have replied to my complaint about the index. They're compiling, and will be uploading a complete, extensive index online in January 2008! Too late for my class, but hey! Someone really does listen. Thanks, O'Reilly!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-11-25 07:37:46 EST)
11-09-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Esta serie é muito boa.
Reviewer Permalink
A série Head First da O'Really é espetacular. É muito divertida e muitissimo didática.


Descomplica o que parece complicado !!!

Vale a pena !!! Eu mesmo já estou no 3º livro desta série !!!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-11-17 07:39:32 EST)
11-05-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Excellent resource to teach yourself XHTML
Reviewer Permalink
This book was recommended to me as one of the better books to teach yourself XHTML. I was not disappointed. It provides a lot of good examples and walks you through real scenarios. It does not include a lot of reference tables, etc., so you should complement this book with one or more reference manuals of XHTML, CSS, etc. This book really helped me understand XHTML.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-11-09 07:29:29 EST)
  
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