I bought this book hoping to get more insight into Rails modeling; to get an idea how certain less-than-common models would be implemented - things not covered in your average Rails book.
This book does not cover that at all - its main goal is discussing various ways to spruce one's application - by using functions that are not commonly seen, or using various third-party technologies with Rails, like obscure full-text searching tools, or Google Maps. I'm all for the former, and the book has some pretty clever ways of doing things you probably never thought it could do. I find things like Google Maps integration less than interesting, however, since I can easily pull that type of information from myriad of the Rails blogs already out there.
Get it, it will pay for itself immediately.
I went through this book cover-to-cover every few pages saying, 'Wow, I could have used/need that now!' If you're a RoR developer, you really should have this book on your shelf. I marked maybe 75% of the recipes as something I could use--worth it's weight in gold!
Another Good One
It's simple, really: If you're programming with Rails you should buy this book. Let's face it, one recipe that shows you how to do something is all that it takes for this book to pay for itself.
Some of the recipes are meant to be looked at on an as-needed basis, e.g. searching using Solr, Sphinx, or Ferret, and sending email via Gmail. But most of the book can be simply read as a way to learn more about Rails, e.g. customizing error messages, testing with RSpec and Shoulda, and caching strategies and tools.
We need Advanced Rails Recipes II in a hurry
I just got my copy yesterday and am having trouble putting it down! This book reads better than a novel/story if you have even a remote interest in Ruby on Rails. Mike Clark has done an outstanding job of putting together really interesting recipes contributed by Ruby on Rails enthusiasts from all over the world and an equally good job of quality assurance. I really hope that he works on producing a sequel as soon as possible.
Another great book from Mike Clark and the Pragmatic Programmers
This book is a must have resource for anyone developing Rails applications. Mike Clark, the Ruby community and the Pragmatic Programmers have once again delivered a set of recipies you'll find immediately usable. I'm already using four in an application I'm working on, all of which have helped me reduce code, increase readability and reduce maintenance.
The book is thoughtfully organized with each recipie being both well written and concise.
No matter what type of Rails application you are writing, or your level of experience, I think you'll find something in this book to make you say "Thats a great idea" and rush to the keyboard to try it out.
