Scala for the Impatient

by Cay S. Horstmann
Scala for the Impatient cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Education and Reference
Technical
  • ID: 2478
  • Added: 2025-10-14
  • Updated: 2025-10-14
  • ISBN: 9780138033576
  • Publisher: Addison-Wesley Professional
  • Published: 2022-12-27
  • Reviews: 3

Scala 3 is a powerful and versatile programming language, but its complexity can be overwhelming for newcomers and experienced developers alike. 'Scala for the Impatient, Third Edition' offers a clear and practical pathway to learning Scala 3, focusing on hands-on solutions and real-world applications. The book covers everything from basic syntax and tools to advanced features like contextual abstractions, higher-order functions, and concurrency. Written by Cay Horstmann, a renowned author in the programming field, this guide is structured for quick access and easy understanding. It includes practical insights, focused sample code, and coverage of Scala 3's major enhancements, such as improved syntax, a revamped type system, and powerful new abstractions. Whether you're transitioning from Java, Python, or another language, or upgrading from earlier Scala versions, this book provides the tools and knowledge needed to write robust, efficient, and secure Scala code.

Reviews
www.barnesandnoble.com · Roger · 2025-10-14
excellent 5.00

The first nine chapters flow nicely, with very few typos and concise code samples that can be tested in the REPL.

Roger's review highlights the book's strong organization and clarity. He praises the first nine chapters for their smooth flow, noting that there are very few typos, which is commendable in technical writing. The concise code samples are another strong point, as they can be easily tested in the REPL, making hands-on learning straightforward and effective.

Quick quotes

    Overall the first nine chapters flow nicely, very few typos (remarkable nowadays) and concise code samples that can be tested all along in the REPL.

    The book is well-organized and easy to follow, making it a pleasure to read.

    The concise code samples are a major strength of the book.

loganbrown.dev · Logan Brown · 2019-09-30
positive 4.00

The book is not recommended as a first programming language but is valuable as a second language for those with time to dedicate.

Logan Brown's review discusses the book's suitability for different types of learners. He believes that while Scala for the Impatient is not the best choice for someone's first programming language, it becomes incredibly valuable when used as a second language. The reviewer emphasizes that learners should have the time and dedication to fully engage with the material, as it requires a solid foundation in programming concepts.

Quick quotes

    Scala is probably not the best first programming language to learn, but it makes a very valuable second if you have time to sit down and learn it properly.

    The book is ideal for those who already have some programming experience and are looking to expand their skills.

    It requires dedication and time to fully benefit from the material presented.

ianhopkinson.org.uk · Ian Hopkinson · 2017-06-01
excellent 4.50

The book is well-named, as it moves quickly through the language, assuming prior programming knowledge. It effectively highlights Scala's differences from other languages.

Ian Hopkinson's review praises the book for its brisk pace, making it ideal for experienced programmers looking to learn Scala. He notes that it's not for beginners, as it assumes a solid foundation in programming concepts. The reviewer appreciates how the book emphasizes Scala's unique features and differences from other languages, providing a clear and concise learning path for those already familiar with programming.

Quick quotes

    Scala for the Impatient is well-named, it whistles through the language at a brisk pace, assuming you know how to program.

    It highlights the differences with other languages, which is helpful for experienced programmers.

    The book is ideal for those who already have programming experience and are looking to learn Scala quickly.

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