Positives Many readers praise this book as a definitive and essential reference for CSS, highlighting its comprehensive coverage and the author's deep understanding of the subject. It is frequently recommended for its clear, logical presentation of material, making complex CSS concepts understandable. Both new and experienced developers found it valuable for grasping the "big picture" of CSS capabilities, updating their knowledge on modern layout tools like Flexbox and Grid, or quickly looking up solutions to specific problems. Its well-structured chapters allow readers to easily navigate and focus on areas they need to understand, making it an effective tool for both in-depth learning and troubleshooting.
Negatives However, some readers found the book's extensive detail to be overwhelming or "eye-glazing," covering minutia they might never use. While some appreciated its comprehensive nature, others felt it was too technical, delving into math and calculations rather than practical quick-start guides. There are conflicting views on its utility as a quick reference; some found it difficult to quickly locate specific information due to a sparse index or the exhaustive detail, making skimming challenging. Additionally, some older editions were noted for lacking coverage of newer CSS standards, and some readers felt it wasn't ideal for learning CSS sequentially or as a standalone practical guide, suggesting it works better alongside other resources or for theoretical understanding.
Conclusion In conclusion, this book is widely regarded as a valuable, in-depth resource for understanding CSS. While its comprehensive and detailed approach can be a significant strength for those seeking a thorough theoretical foundation and a reliable reference, it may not be the best choice for readers looking for a quick, practical "how-to" guide or a simple introductory tutorial. It is particularly recommended for programmers and web designers who are willing to dive deep into the intricacies of CSS, need a robust technical reference for complex implementations, or wish to update their knowledge on advanced layout techniques. Readers who prefer to learn by doing or require a more straightforward, less verbose introduction might find it beneficial to use this book in conjunction with other, more hands-on resources.
