Non Fiction
I actually still look stuff up in Mastering Linux occasionally, so from that point of view, it was worth it. I also used the CDs and stuff that came with it as the basis of a machine setup at one time, with some help from the book, so even though a bit pricey at the time, it did its job. You aren't likely to need this level of help now though.
Just for starting on Linux
'Mastering Linux' is intended for those people who have never worked in Linux and require superficial overview of the operating system to get started. After this the book has no use. Just like other general book on Linux, the first 5 chapters deal with the introduction and installation. Chapter 6-12 solely discuss the desktop environment, which is very strange considering that using the command shell is more powerful. Even after these chapters, 75% of the remaining book gives the configuration using GUI! Graphical interface is ok but if you actually have to use Linux you are better off with the text mode.
Chapter 13-35 are concerned with setting up various servers (SMTP, Web, Database) on Linux and using various graphical utilities. Again why were they added to a general book on Linux, only the author knows.
The book has too much information (in 1000+) pages, resulting in no in-depth coverage of any topic (except the desktop environment!) There is only one small chapter on using bash and on chapter on system administration.
The only good thing about it is the Appendix for the shell commands.
The book is good for giving a newbie a start off and that is all. But again with too much importance given to the GUI. No one can master Linux using this book. Once you have installed the operating system, try buying some other book.
Awsome Eye opener into the wonder that is Linux!
This is one of the few great books on linux I have ever seen. The auther does not just breeze over your head assuming you know certain things like most authors do, nor does he speak below you. Many books about linux just tell you to type commands, or do this or do that but dont tell you why you are doing it and principals behind it. This guy is a great teacher, and buy the time you are done reading this book, you will have a level of understanding of all aspects of linux, that you will feel confident enough to experiments on your own(and not get caught by the smallest snag) as well as move on to more advanced books and topics. I went from being able to do nearly nothing in Lunix, to feeling pretty confident using it. Thank You Mr. Danesh for opening up my eyes to the wounderful world of Linux!
An introduction only to Linux.
This book is a long long introduction and only an introduction unfortunately. You won't be able to understand Linux well after reading this book. Some examples doesn't work. The author trying to cover everything and nothing in depth. However it might help you to make a first step(only) to the world of Linux.
Mastering Linux
I had much success with Sybex books(7 books) until this one. This book is missing key parts and it reads like an instruction that comes with cheap assemble-it-yourself furniture. You end up asking yourself, now what do I do with this part?
