i already know a little about java, but the whole jsp concept is kind of fuzzy to me. i already have three jsp books, and they are good, but they are way over my head....too advanced. i have never had a beginner programming book that was as well written as this book. i have already completed a few chapters...and i loved this book from page one. i recommend that you do what i do...which is to have your nearest bookstore order the book for you, read the first chapter, and if you like it, buy it at the store or from here. it is a little cheaper from here. when you get more advanced, i recommend the following books: "Professional JSP" from wrox Press, and the 2nd edition of "Professional JavaServer Programming" also from wrox, which i think will be out in a couple months. but for now, just focus your time for the next few months on Bakharia's book. i have the wrox books that i recommended above, but they are more for the intermediate to advanced jsp programmer.