This book is thorough, well-written and nicely-formatted. I get the feeling the author really knows what he is talking about and what is important.

I’m about half-way through it, but I can see that Windows Presentation Foundation is going to be a blast of fresh air for my graphics-oriented projects. I can’t wait to get started!

The style is easy to read, and the chapters go quickly. There are plenty of code samples that aren’t explained in too much detail. I like this because it forces you to think or do a little bit of research, and it also keeps the book uncluttered.

The book assumes that you are using Expression Blend 2 and Visual Studio 2008. If you have these applications, it is super-simple to follow along. If you don’t, then a lot of the xaml can be entered into the free Xaml Pad application, but the more advanced examples involving code-behind files and server stuff will be harder to follow.

I used this book to jump to the new world of .NET and escape the shackles of the VB/VBA world. It’s not a flashy book but it is thorough. I think Dan Appleman places value on rigor and discipline and wants his readers to really understand what they are doing.

After reading this book, I felt that I had been exposed to high-quality theory, shown best practices and given a “good education” by someone who cares.

The companion web-site includes a wonderful set of code samples and utilities that will aid in your development efforts and exploration.

Since Visio 2007 includes exciting new, data-related end-user features, a good portion of the book is devoted to explaining and using these features. Code snippets are added to take the data features to the next level, but power-users can ignore the code and still benefit immensely.

Visualizing Information with MS Visio 2007 is also a great preparation guide if you are interested in the Microsoft certification exam: 70-545 Microsoft Visio 2007, Application Development.

For a more in-depth review, check out the article: Book Review: Visualizing Information with Microsoft Office Visio 2007.

I think this book’s 12-week methodology really has something of merit. Admittedly, I’ve never finished the whole weeks, though I’ve started a few times.

It’s about unblocking creative blocks, and getting in the habit of doing whatever it is you do, without worrying about creating a masterpiece every time. Once you get used to producing on a regular basis, you’ll be free (and comfortable with) tossing out the 99% junk that you create and loving the rest!

If you’re stuck in a creative rut and need to unleash yourself on the world, you should give this book a try.

The book is a collection of Bastian Sick’s column “Zwiebelfisch“, which has appeared in Speigel Online since 2003. Each chapter offers a tongue-in-cheek, witty discussion on some aspect of the German language that is misunderstood, annoying, or often misused. From annoying importations of English phrases, to Der-Die-Das Hell, to the overuse-sting of the best-est most-est superlatives, Mr. Sick always finds something to quip about and make fun of.

Even if you don’t understand every word (like me), you’ll still find this book humorous and entertaining!

I liked this book very much, but am having trouble describing why…in a coherent way. The ideas are very interesting, but Taleb never seems to get to the point and tell you how he uses his theories to get rich take action or do something practical.

I liked this book as well, but I think if you read either Fooled by Randomness or The Black Swan, you’ll probably have had adequate exposure to the author’s ideas.