Rating: 
Summary: Can't be beat
Review: For a developer with weak or mediocre SQL Server skills, this is the best place to go. It is very readable without being too wordy, and the coverage is awesome, actually much wider than is needed for the 70-229 exam. Amazingry this book is both exactly what I need as a professional developer AND exactly what I needed to pass 70-229. (I should mention that for that exam you need to be very familiar with the command line and GUI tools and options, DBCC etc, which are covered by this book.)
I cannot imagine a better SQL Server 2000 "bible" for developers. It's true it lacks super advanced information on performance tuning, OLAP, and DTS, but all of these topics are covered well enough for the needs of a professional developer who is not on a specialty project and is not acting as a power DBA. And to add more of such advanced details, cutting out fat to make room would not be an option, because there is no fat in this book, it is already 1400 pages because it covers everything. Unless you are already a SQL Server expert, I think you shouldn't go without this book.
Rating: 
Summary: Good Breadth, Average Depth
Review: As has already been stated this is not a reference book. I think the author has covered quite a bit in this book but I think the "Professional" in the title is a little misleading. It doesn't quite have the technical depth I would consider to be "Professional". It also has a writing style is more along the lines of a "Dummies Guide" then a "Professional" programming book. In the end it depends what you are looking for.
Rating: 
Summary: Must Have SQL Server 2000 Book
Review: This is THE book to have on SQL Server 2000. Robert Vieira unquestionably knows his stuff and covers every aspect of SQL Server completely and thoroughly.
Rating:
Summary: Priceless information from a true expert
Review: This is one of the few technical books truly worth reading from cover to cover. The author is an expert, and it shows in his discussions of the pros and cons of all approaches. This book was actually a pleasure to read thanks to his writing style and honesty concerning various issues. If you are developing applications for Windows or the Web using SQL 2000 you must read this book. It will teach you how to properly build and program your database (via views, triggers, and sprocs), enforce constraints, and track and optimize performance. The information on security is excellent. The coverage of OLTP vs. OLAP, and normalization vs. denormalization is great. I wish I had read this years ago. I also wish all technical books could be half as good. The only possible minus is the use of screen shots, but that only adds to the size of the book, it does not take away from the other material, and in most cases it is useful, so I still give 5 stars.I just completed this book for the 70-229 exam. Coupled with the Transcenders and Books On Line for filling in your problem areas after testing, you will be well prepared. I passed by a wide margin.
Rating:
Summary: A ton of wisdom, delivering on its promises.
Review: Starting out fresh in SQL server, I first read most of Thearon Willis' "Beginning" book. With many years of IT experience, I quickly switched to this book, and am very impressed. I feel it has delivered on its hope to make me a competent (SQL Server) database developer. The strongest points in my opinion include: - SQL Server basics, and essentials such as data storage, index structures, locks, constraints, transactions, triggers, advanced queries, cursors, security, replication, bcp, full-text search, and XML output and reports from SQL Server. - An easy-reading writing style that puts information into my brain quickly and relatively easily. - Solid scope. Many other sections I may take a little for granted given experience with databases, but are more than adequate and packed with pain-saving wisdom and useful tips. What the author knows he can't accomplish in one book is clearly spelled out. There are solid overviews of performance tuning, DTS, WMI, and Analysis Services, and advice to look elsewhere for more information. One exception is Database Administration, which is reviewed well, but does not suggest looking for other sources of information in addition to this book (likely because a programmer perhaps doesn't need to... but an administrator must.) There are few typos, plenty of examples (but no exam-type questions), and good chapter introductions and summaries. 32 chapters and 5 Appendixes are all VERY well organized, from easier to more difficult (generally). One thing I like is that if I get bored or stuck on one item, there's "always" another chapter I'll enjoy. This is the best technical book I've read so far and I've no intention to put it down until its read 3 times over. Great value!! 70-229 is within reach.
Rating:
Summary: Really enjoyed this book
Review: This is a good book that I really enjoyed. There is lots of discussion of the different aspects of developing applications for Sql that I think most Sql developers would find useful and informative. This is a good handbook for getting going with writing real applications that depend on Sql Server for their data store.
Rating: 
Summary: Not professional at all
Review: The book is mistitled. It is for beginners only. Much of the book consists of screens from Enterprise Manager and Query Analyzer. There are scant few tips for real professionals and I doubt the author has ever built Sql Server applications of any complexity. The book should be titled "Beginning Sql Server Programming" instead.
Rating:
Summary: The best SQL 2000 instruction from a very great teacher
Review: Rob is a natural at teaching his craft, which he knows extremely well. You can tell he is a professional that has mastered his craft and enjoys sharing the information that is essential for anyone to become a true professional in the field. Rob is also very honest. Some writers mention this book v. the 7.0 book not being different? Rob addresses this in the first few pages of this book, as an honest and good man would. You see, there are more differences between 7.0 and 2000 than some people have picked up on is what I believe. Sure there is much similar information. That packaging, title and Rob's own words are quick to show and tell you that. But all in all it was worth a new book for the 2000 upgrade. In fact, there are some MAJOR changes in 2000, so it's worth it just to learn about those and the same great in depth information. I've noticed a second edition of this title but can never find it available. I own this version from the year 2000, and believe me it is ragged from constant use, but would pay for the second editon if I could find it just for any new information Rob has to dispense. I feel this informtion is so well presented and such a great all around tutorial, reference, guide, all in one book I'd pay for the updated info in a second editon gladly.
Thanks Rob. I personally think you are the best. I wish I worked for you! You are not only a master and completely professional, but you have that magic quality of not being full of yourself in any manner and humble in fact....a very admirable trait.
A reader who is appreciative and better for your great work.
Rating:
Summary: Stuck to my earlier edition
Review: I agree with the reviewer Wendt, who complained that this book is too much like its earlier edition. I borrowed a copy of this new edition and compared it to my copy of the previous. Partly 'cus I was wondering if I needed to upgrade. But not really. Wendt is correct. If you already have an earlier copy, then you should save some money and stick with that. The extra new stuff here is pretty minor.
Rating:
Summary: Best book on SQL 2000 programming available
Review: This book covers everything a professional programmer using SQL server 2000 needs to know in just the right depth and breadth of topics. Can't beat it.
Don't think twice on this one, unless the second edition is available, then buy it.
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