Author: Robin Dewson
Publisher: Apress, 2008
Pages: 496
ISBN: 978-1590599587
Aimed at: Developers new to database programming
Rating: 4
Pros: Simple, clear explanations
Cons: It really is very basic
Reviewed by: Dave Wheeler

This is truly a beginner's guide to using SQL Server 2008. Aimed fairly and squarely at developers with little or no experience of database programming, it provides a clear and simple introduction to installing, configuring and programming SQL Server 2008.
What it will not do is turn you from being a novice into a professional.

The book starts simply enough, covering how to install and configure SQL Server 2008. Dewson then goes on to introduce SQL Server Management Studio, before spending most of the first half of the book examining installation and management tasks, such as creating databases, implementing security and performing backups.
The second half of the book is focused on the programming aspects of SQL Server, including using views, SPROCs and even using SQL Server Reporting Services.
Ultimately, this book will only be relevant to developers who have never coded against a database in their lives. Although it is well written, and the explanations are very clear, you will very quickly move beyond the topics that it covers.
A good introduction, but you won't be ready to write production code after reading this book.