Programming Microsoft Visual Basic 2005: The Language

**** The reception of "Programming Visual Basic 2005" by Francesco Balena has been largely positive, particularly among experienced programmers seeking to deepen their understanding of the Visual Basic .NET language. Unlike many other books that focus excessively on drag-and-drop development within Visual Studio, Balena’s work stands out by emphasizing the language Constructs and advanced programming techniques, offering a more serious and robust approach to learning VB .NET. Reviewers appreciate the book’s depth, especially its treatment of complex topics such as threading and regular expressions. Many users have highlighted the ability to navigate through the book by focusing on specific areas of interest, which caters to those with a solid background in programming. However, it is noted that the book may not be suitable for novices, as it can be challenging without prior knowledge of programming concepts. One of the standout features is the extensive appendix, which provides a wealth of information that users find beneficial, contrasting with other programming books that often skimp on this crucial section. While some experienced readers noted minor areas for improvement in the code examples, the overall clarity and organization of the content have been thoroughly praised. Though there is a Consensus that the book excels at exploring the language itself, some reviewers expressed disappointment at the lack of coverage of ASP and ASP.NET—topics that were included in Balena's previous editions. Nevertheless, many still Consider this book a must-have for those looking to refine their programming skills in VB.NET. Overall, "Programming Visual Basic 2005" by Francesco Balena is celebrated as a highly informative resource for seasoned programmers seeking to enhance their programming abilities, while novices might struggle to grasp its content without foundational knowledge. **