AppleScript: The Definitive Guide is not a tutorial to teach one how to create AppleScript code. Instead, it assists those with AppleScript programming knowledge in understanding the underpinnings of AppleScript; of its shortcomings and abilities; and why Variables and Handlers behave as they do, and/or are accessed the way they are, due to where they are placed, and/or how they are defined. If you can understand that last sentence, then you have an inkling of how the book is presented.

The book has three Sections:

• Part I - AppleScript Overview.
• Part II - AppleScript Language
• Part III - AppleScript in Action.

Part I, AppleScript Overview, shows how AppleScript can be used with other parts of MacOS X, such as folders, which, via Apple Events, can execute an associated Script; and can call or be called by UNIX, Perl, and Ruby. Perl and Ruby, like AppleScript, are scripting Languages. Also presented is an example of going from a blank (Script Editor) sheet to a fully working AppleScript Application (Applet).

Part II, AppleScript Language thoroughly covers AppleScript programming Syntax, Variables, Handlers, Script Objects, Objects, References, Controls, Datatypes, Coercions, Operators, Global Properties, Constants, and Commands. Numerous examples are included to provide clarity as to the material being conveyed.

Part III, AppleScript in Action, explains the structure and accessibility of dictionaries; what Scripting Additions are, and how they are used; and how scriptable and some non-scriptable applications can be accessed and controlled. Also covered are ways to save AppleScript code — as a Script or application file (Applet). A properly written Applet can even accept dragged-on items. AppleScript Studio is discussed, but not taught, in a twenty-page section, where an example application is created. It's not a step by step tutorial; but just demonstrates wrapping a Cocoa interface (the programming language of MacOS X) around AppleScript code.

Summary: While AppleScript: The Definitive Guide was written for MacOS X AppleScript programming, those still scripting in System 9.2.2 or earlier, will also benefit from the wealth of information provided. The book is not for AppleScript beginners; O'Reilly's AppleScript in a Nutshell by Bruce W. Perry would be a better choice. For concise, down to the bone, explanations of AppleScript's whys and why-nots, with numerous how-tos provided, this is one (AppleScript Reference) book to have. — Samuel Leidy MLMUG Reviewer

[ home | newsletter | past | join | listserve | shareware | directory | links | md9 ]

© 2004 by Samuel Leidy & MLMUG
Posted 02/27/04
Updated 09/15/04