Before you start developing the main web page the book steps you through the creation of a “confidence building “mini-web page. Then you build a full web page from start to finish called Sizzle. It is a web page for a group of vacation resorts. The lessons include building Logos, importing pictures, using JavaScript, including a slide show and video clip, making a form for customer feedback, and how to test the validity of the pages using the W3C web page.

Although I have written web pages which are on the internet, I decided to work through this book from start to finish. There have been changes in HTML rules since I wrote my web pages and I wanted first hand experience with some of the new technology and codes.

The confidence builder went quickly and smoothly. Then I started the main course and, although I learned a lot, I ran into many problems. For the most part you are reminded to save the page you are working on before testing the page in your browser. However, there are many times when you are directed to test the work in your browser without saving it first. I found an instance when the book refers to a “.jpg” image (which is the form of most images) however, the actual image was in “.gif” format. In the lesson to add a flash video I could not get the video to work. The code was complex and not being familiar with adding video I could not locate the error. I tried going to the tutorial files and use copy and past on their code which did not work either. Another problem, which I consider to be significant, is in the code for the use of images. The “alt” code should allow the message following “alt” to appear when the mouse is over the image on the web page. It did not appear on any of the images. There were a few other problems with some of the code which I made note of in the margins of the book as I worked through the lessons.

Over all I found the course interesting and enjoyable. The book is a good tool for someone who wants to get started writing web pages and will teach you many of the basics that are necessary for good web page construction. One of the basics that I learned and will use often is how to validate the pages using the W3C web site. Even with its errors I think the book is well worth the time to read.

The book can be ordered from several of the local book stores. The in-store price is $44.99. However, Bookstop said it could be ordered over the internet for $35.99 with free shipping and handling if over $25.00. This book is part of Seybold Seminars-Publications-Consulting.

HTML Complete Course was written by Donna L. Baker and published by Wiley Publishing, Inc. The book’s ISBN No. is 0-7645-4092-0 and has a price of $44.99.