"Object-oriented programming is characterized by inheritance and dynamic binding. C++ supports inheritance through class derivation. Dynamic binding is provided by virtual class functions. Virtual functions provide a method of encapsulating the implementation details of an inheritance hierarchy".
That paragraph comes from the first chapter of one of the top C++ books. While it's all technically true, it conveys nothing to someone trying to learn the C++ language. That useless paragraph of techno-babble is what motivated me to start writing technical books. I knew I could do better.
The "For Dummies" books are a great idea, apart from the name, but they go too far in the other direction. Anything difficult is just left out! The amateur artwork is obviously just filler, and forced humor quickly becomes wearing. There is a better way to help people read about new software.
I have always liked finding out how things work, and then figuring out how to explain that to others. My books present interesting material without patronizing readers. I give people the information, the context, and the significance. Most readers seem to like my books.
-- PvdL, Jan 1, 2005.