Ruby by Example: Concepts and Code
Reviewed by Robert Pritchett
![](RubybyExample_files/image003.png)
Authors: Kevin C.
Baird
No Starch Press
http://oreilly.com/catalog/9781593271480/index.html
Released: June
2007
$30 USD
Pages: 294
ISDN 13: 9781593271480
Strengths: From
the view of Unix. Also has a great comparison section to other programming
languages.
Weaknesses: None
found.
|
![](RubybyExample_files/image006.png)
![](RubybyExample_files/image007.jpg)
|
Introduction
There may be no better
way to learn how to program than by dissecting real, representative examples
written in your language of choice. Ruby by Example analyzes a series of Ruby scripts, examining how the
code works, explaining the concepts it illustrates, and showing how to modify
it to suit your needs. Baird's examples demonstrate key features of the
language (such as inheritance, encapsulation, higher-order functions, and
recursion), while simultaneously solving difficult problems (such as validating
XML, creating a bilingual program, and creating command-line interfaces). Each
chapter builds upon the previous, and each key concept is highlighted in the
margin to make it easier for you to navigate the book.
You'll learn how to:
á
Use the interactive Ruby
shell (irb) to learn key features of the language
á
Extend Ruby using RubyGems,
the Ruby package manager
á
Create numerical utilities,
as well as utilities that process and analyze HTML/XML
á
Implement purely functional
and metaprogramming techniques to save time and effort
á
Optimize, profile, and test
your code to make sure that it not only does its job, but does it well
á
Create web applications
using Rails
Ruby is
the fastest growing programming language today, and for good reason: Its
elegant syntax and readable code make for prolific and happy programmers. But
it can be difficult to understand and implement without a little help. Ruby by
Example shows you how to take advantage of Ruby as you explore Ruby's
fundamental concepts in action.
What I Learned
Unlike the other 8 programming languages it is compared to,
Ruby is interpreted, not compiled, object-oriented, not procedural, strong
dynamic typing and readable text and is a descendent of Lisp – and it
stays out o four way.
Conclusions
Take Ruby from the perspective of Unix.