Yeah, Effective C++ is really a *must read* if you want to improve your current knowledge of C++. However, although interesting, I don't find this book a must because it explains things you will not probably use in your real life as a programmer. If you already have Effective C++, both Stroustup, and/or Coplien's "Advanced C++ Programming Styles and Idioms" and/or Murray's "C++ Strategies and Tactics", I don't think you should get it unless you do not sleep at nights or you want to know absolutely everything about C++. However, it is a good book, so if you are not concerned about money, get it and read it, but get first the other ones I said.