Unix Shell Programming Kochan G

Unix Shell Programming by Stephan G. Kochan and Patrick Wood is a book aiding users to learn the Unix Shell Programming language is a tutorial which aims to help Unix and Linux users gain maximum performance out of their operating system. It shows users how to control the system and how to work efficiently by solving common problem, subsequently the user will learn everything in order to know how to customise the way their system responds. This book is widely available on e-commerce sites such as Amazon for £13.23 new, (RRP. £21.99)

This book can be used to teach a beginner the basics of Unix Shell Programming. It covers everything from regular expressions, to the kernel and the utilities, command files, parameters, tools, processes, customizing the shell and many more. It is easy to read and easy to understand. Everything is illustrated clearly and therefore easily understandable. The exercises are varying in difficulty, from the easier exercises to the more difficult ones. It can be used as a ‘learn by example’ for beginners, at the back of the book it has a comprehensive reference therefore meaning that the book can be used as a reference book for the more advanced user looking to consolidate their knowledge of Unix Shell Scripting.

There are several downsides to this book, for example there are ‘self-test’ exercises after most of the chapters, however these do not have any answers, therefore resulting in the reader having to look elsewhere for clarification of an answer. Additionally, there are no worked through solutions to the examples given – this would prove troublesome for beginners attempting to use Unix Shell Scripting. Furthermore, the book solely focuses on the Korn and Bourne Shell, perhaps this isn’t much of a problem, but users wishing to learn other shells must find an additional resource.

Other reviewers rating:
An e-commerce site (Amazon.com) which sells Unix Shell Programming allows users who have bought the book to give their own review of it. Overall, Amazon users gave the book five out of five stars.

Our rating:
This book is a vital learning resource for anyone looking to learn Bash Shell Scripting. It is laid out in an easy to follow manner and the language used is coherent and clear. It is certainly a valuable addition as a reference or a learning tool for anyone looking to learn or improve their knowledge of Bash Shell Scripting.

4 ½ /5

Where to buy from:

This book can be bought from the following link:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Unix-Shell-Programming-Stephen-Kochan/dp/0672324903