Best book/resources to learn JavaScript so I can use jQuery and other libraries?

Question

Basically, I'm not looking to become an expert in JavaScript. I just want to know enough to utilize existing libraries well. I'm looking for:

1. Books on JavaScript
2. Tutorials online
3. Anything else :)

Regards, Sam

Answer 1

JavaScript: The Good Parts: This book should help you unlearn every wrong thing you know about JavaScript as a language. It is simple, concise and elegant.

Pro JavaScript Techniques: This book covers JavaScript more as a tool for manipulating the DOM.

Answer 2

In my opinion, this is the Javascript book to have: Javascript: The Definitive Guide

Answer 3

If you go down the jQuery path, and I do recommend it, check out the online documentation. In depth and informative, and a great reference!

Answer 4

I'd check out a few books by Thomas Powell. JavaScript the Complete reference is a good starting point. http://www.amazon.com/JavaScript-Complete-Reference-Thomas-Powell/dp/0072253576/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1235612167&sr=8-1

If you can wrap your head around all that, then I would suggest his sequel, Ajax: The complete reference. http://www.amazon.com/Ajax-Complete-Reference/dp/007149216X/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1235612277&sr=8-1

Happy reading!

Answer 5

This is nice book on DOM and javascript DOM Scripting. And if you want the totally basic javascript book try Beginning Javascript.

Answer 6

Try Professional Javascript for Web Developers from Nicholas C. Zakas. It covers the very basics of javascript and many advanced topics. A "must have" to any serious javascript developer.

Answer 7

I'm having great success with Head First Ajax. It doesn't much cover frameworks, but it gives you the low-down to be able to understand what they do.

For online tutorials, QuirksMode is a great reference, in my opinion.

Answer 8

Hey GUYS! to answer your question: "javascript ajax for dummies" is the way to go if you are a beginner like me. I didn't finish the book so you too take what you like and then move on to "DHTML Utopia Modern Web Design Using JavaScript and DOM" (this is really good).