With so much information to have to know in Flash, it is invaluable to have a book that you can pick up to learn a particular item. This book is packed with tips, tricks, resources, and little known facts about the ins and outs of Macromedia Flash MX 2004. In addition you get a friendly introduction to web services, remoting, and XML. Sams and David did a really good job with this one.

The writing's pretty thin in places and the jargon comes heavy. Concepts are presented hierarchically rather than cognitively (e.g. the chapter on components immediately dives into how to insert them into a Flash movie without first explaining what they are). Also, be warned that the sample files and source code isn't easily accessible -- there's no link given to the book's website, and if you go looking at the publisher's site you get a large zip file that's missing files referenced in the text.

If you're already extremely familiar with Flash MX, this book may be fine for you. If you've had only passing contact with Flash, or are upgrading your knowledge from a previous version, save yourself the grief.

I felt this book expanded nicely on past editions and is still the book of choice for Flash professionals. Superb examples and excellent depth. If you are or want to become a Flash professional, I highly recommend this book for your library!!

The book title tells peopple it is for Flash MX 2004 professional. However, it is not. It is just another regular Flash Mx 2004 books.