This is a small pocket reference that gives a brief overview of some of the basic constructs used in Oracle, e.g. variables, PL/SQL tables, function definitions, etc. It then goes onto describe some of the new and improved functionality that Oracle8i gives us, e.g. objects, database events, Java support and bulk binds.

The book is small and only runs to 94 pages. It gives numerous examples of functions, view and triggers to explain the enhancement it is describing. The book is good as far as it goes and covers a great deal but to get the complete information you would need to consult the full documentation.

I cannot remember the cost in pounds but if you have the online Oracle documentation or maybe the complete reference that this book is a slimed down version of, I would say that this book is not for you. If you want a book that describes new features then you could use this book. I on the other hand would consider the cost of the complete reference a better use of funds and use that to find out all of the new and exciting functionality in Oracle8i.