An immensely popular scripting language, Perl combines the best
features of C, key UNIX utilities and a powerful use of regular
expressions. Increasingly the system administrator’s scripting
language of choice, Perl can be used for file and directory
manipulation, database access and a whole range of daily system
operator chores. In spite of its popularity, however, it suffers
from a negative image and a stereotype of unintelligible code.
In Beginning Perl, Simon Cozens aims to dispel the unfair
reputation of Perl as a confusing and obscure programming language
by encouraging the creation of legible and sensible
programs.
In fact Perl is an ideal language for the novice programmer to
start with, allowing you to learn programming techniques and
develop your own style of coding. Although you will find it easier
if you have some basic programming experience, the material covered
in this book can be mastered by anyone with a text editor, some
common sense and a computer. If you want to find out how to program
in Perl, and how far you can take it, Beginning Perl is the book to
choose. To see just how easy it is to start writing Perl programs,
check out chapter 5 ‘Regular Expressions’ which is online at
http://www.Devshed.com
To make it even easier for you to learn there is an online forum
to supply author and peer support for the book at
http://P2P.wrox.com, as well as email technical support.