one of my better buys

What I love about this book is that it covers subjects that you run into all the time in unix but none of my other books say much about. For example the link editor, libraries, c command line options. In particular I like the sections on gdb and gprof. Super useful. The intro has a section on unix and setting up your environmental variables, another neglected topic. The only section that didn't interest me is the section on emacs since I am a vi guy. But, it doesn't hurt to have it either... In sum, if you are a true UNIX guru, you may already know all this stuff, but, if you are an aspiring guru, like myself, this is pure gold.

Good Introduction to GNU Software

The book collects the information usually scattered in different places.It covers the following tools: gcc, emacs, gdb, make, rcs, gprof. The explanation is pretty clear, necessary examples are given.What I don't like in this book: too many words about benefits of free software, probably more technical topics and details would be more useful. E.g. the chapter about 'make' even doesn't mention pattern rules. I'd like also to see a section devoted to CVS. The level of details is good for an introductory course but is not sufficient for a reference book.RESUME: if you are new to GNU tools and going to use them on a regular basis this book will help you, otherwise skip it.

Too much praise, not enough substance.

kelley@ufl.edu) (Gainesville, Florida, USA) -

There is some very good material contained in this text. The problem is there is also a fair amount of "We're GNU, we're great, here are the other books which will explain how to use this tool."Practical C++ Programming, another O'Reilly text has 500+ pages and lists for $32.95. It is a great example of solid writing and is a great bang for the bucks. Programming with GNU Software has less than 250 pages and lists for $39.95. The writing style is weak and the flow is not as strong. Programming with GNU could easily drop 75 pages worth of self warm fuzzies, work a bit more on the flow of instruction, and include a little more info.Note: The three stars are for the content which was worth reading. This book is good for those who have little to no exposure to GNU environment. If you have some familiarity then get texts which address the specific tools.