Some of the most outstanding Web sites are based on highly dynamic and action-driven movie-like content that can interact with the user. These sites are developed in Flash, an event-triggered programming language supporting dynamic changes in the flow of a stored movie. Users can trigger changes in the logical flow using ActionScript. Similar in syntax to JavaScript, ActionScript supports the definition of actions that can be executed on the playback of a movie. These actions are driven by user choices and context-specific constraints.

This book covers the fundamental aspects of ActionScript. The reader is introduced to the language via a hands-on approach. Alongside the reading experience, a full-featured application can be developed by the practice-oriented reader. To meet this goal, the authors cover, quite extensively, the use of Flash (provided as a time-limited freely available tool), with many practical hints on some less obvious features. The remainder of the book is devoted to introducing the ActionScript language elements, and writing up the complete application.

I will not discuss the book on a chapter-by-chapter basis. A programming language is always structured around decisional elements, loop instructions, event/action handlers, and object-oriented and procedural support, where the only variation is given by the specific syntax. Naturally, the book follows this pattern. The writing style is very easygoing; numerous examples and illustrations are provided to help readers grasp this programming environment. More advanced readers can skip over some introductory examples without missing essential information. The many screen shots and side notes are, however, invaluable to beginning and novice readers. I liked the truly outstanding pedagogy followed by the authors, as well as their concern for even small details.

The book targets a wide audience. Although some minimal Web programming experience is required, the book can be read by anyone wanting to know the building blocks of some of the most successful Web sites. Written in a very reader-friendly manner, and providing many practical tips, this book needs to be on the desk of the aspiring Web programmer. I recommend it for learning an exciting technology.