The XML Pocket Reference describes XML (Extensible Markup Language) along with Document Type Definitions, Extensible Stylesheet Language, and XLink and XPointer. There isn't much of an introduction: the reader is assumed to have a general understanding of how XML fits into the broader scheme of things (or at least a general grasp of structural markup). Nor is there any information about practical use of XML (tools, applications). And as a reference it is unlikely to be anyone's first choice, since, as Eckstein himself points out, the XML specifications are moving targets. If, however, you have a general idea how XML works but no idea what it actually looks like, the XML Pocket Reference is a decent introduction to its terminology and syntax, especially if you want something you can read on the train.

December 1999

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