Its balanced presentation targets the true beginner, combining both a laboratory-oriented approach and theoretical discussions to develop a deep, usable understanding. Coverage concentrates solely on console applications and browser applets -- console applications because they provide the purest form of Java programming without the distractions and special techniques required of more elaborate environments; and browser applets because of their ability to bring the Internet alive and provide a relatively painless entry into the world of the GUI (Graphics User Interface). The book's wide range of topics within these areas ranges from simple classes and objects, to file I/O and linked lists, to external events and applet animation -- covering the essentials of J++ deeply and thoroughly, with many minor details or advanced topics merely mentioned or omitted. Also included are discussions on basic page design -- including HTML and hot-links -- structured programming techniques, and optional review chapters on the C language.