Until recently, the growth of VRML was slow because few people had browsers that could take advantage of the new VRML technology. Today, however, there are a number of excellent VRML browsers and plug-ins. Most significantly, people using Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator can download plug-ins quickly and easily. VRML has, as the authors say, “made its way to the masses.”

The goal of this book is not only to teach VRML but to provide a range of programs that can be used immediately. The authors begin with instructions for downloading VRML browsers or plug-ins for existing browsers. They simplify the process of obtaining a VRML browser, though none is included (because they change on a regular basis.) The authors have created a Web page where readers can access the sites of companies that offer VRML browsers. Next, they provide a brief tour of a VRML gallery. By the second chapter, users are writing VRML programs. The organization of the CD-ROM that accompanies the book makes it easy to use. All of the source code for each of the VRML worlds is found on the CD, and the code for each is placed in its own directory.

The book is different from many of the currently available books that explain VRML. Its goal is to do what the title implies--provide a library of programs for programmers. As the authors say, they provide “code, code and more code.” Creating VRML worlds is not problem-free. The authors warn readers that some VRML browsers are more stable than others. They have tested the code that appears in the book on a variety of browsers and urge readers to do the same with code they create.

This book gives readers a quick entry into the world of VRML programming. While the audience for the book may be limited (VRML is not for everyone), those who use it will find that they can make rapid progress in creating attractive, sophisticated Web pages.