When comparing JavaScript: The Good Parts vs Head First Programming, the Slant community recommends Head First Programming for most people. In the question“What are the best beginner's books for programming?” Head First Programming is ranked 4th while JavaScript: The Good Parts is ranked 7th. The most important reason people chose Head First Programming is:
Head First approaches learning with the idea that anything which increases brain activity will help you learn. Head First does this through humor, pictures, surprise and more.
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Pros
Pro Explains what makes JS confusing and how to go about it
JS can be a confusing language and often provides difficulty writing good code that uses objects and methods. Crockford explains why that is and how to think about the language to avoid confusion.
Pro Good for intermediate programmers
The book requires basic understating of how programming works and even some understanding of JavaScript itself.
Pro Creative teaching style
Head First approaches learning with the idea that anything which increases brain activity will help you learn. Head First does this through humor, pictures, surprise and more.
Pro Relevant, challenging and fun puzzles
The puzzles and exercises are challenging and unique. They help to reinforce what you've learned while guiding you through developing fun programs from the start.
Pro Engaging writing style
One of the ways these books encourages the retention of material is by using an engaging and amusing writing style.
Cons
Con Lack of consistency
Where some parts of the book cover very basic concepts, other parts expect at least an intermediate understanding on JavaScript. There is a lack of consistency, causing some confusion as to who the book is aimed at.