Rating:  - Worth Reading
It's a good book worth the reading for every programmer aspiring to be a professional. My only negative comment is that I wish the author presented a logical explanation of the reasoning behind pattern implementations before presenting the actual implementation (code). On many occassions I found myself confused as to why a certain implementation was chosen. I understood the code, but did not comprehend the reasoning behind the code. In many cases, the logic of the pattern was not self-evident (for example read the Observer Pattern).
Rating:  - Patterns and Practices
Being from a C++ and Java backround, objects have always been second nature to me. This book does a great job of covering the basics of working with objects in PHP 5, but more important than that, it also teaches why we should use objects. By combining theories of Pattern and Practice with the technical implementation details of object oriented programming, Zandstra has exceeded my expectations by offering a new way to look at solving many of the problems I often face as a web developer. His well-seasoned advice draws from a sophisticated pool of experience, and covers a wide range of topics from Project Management to Design Strategy. This has truly proved a valuable resource.
Rating: - A perfect introduction to OOP in PHP5
This book does exactly what it advertises; it gives a somewhat comprehensive introduction to concepts of object oriented development in PHP5. It's written in a simple and accessible tone yet never dumbs the subject down. It also clearly states that it offers no complete solutions, only introductions to concepts, though the book tells you where to look for more information.
Coupled with a more complete design pattern catalogue and some more extensive reading on the practical aspects that are not touched on much (Phing, PEAR, CVS/SubVersion, and so on) this book is perfect for the budding PHP developer who wants to learn more than looping over a databse result or doing simple math.
Rating: - classy ... and timely
ok; so, you've been reading object-oriented theory (and syntax etc.) for ages. But have all those other books and articles still left you wondering how to put it all together ... and actually implement something? Well, this is THE book ... that shows you how to transition from theory to practice - the CORRECT way(s) i.e. according to the "best practices" of our time.
It's written very clearly and succinctly (which is more than I can say for most other writings on the subjects of objects, patterns & practices). I've seen whole books written (never mind LONG articles) on patterns, that the author covers in a few pages. It takes someone gifted to do that; it is only when one has a commanding and comprehensive knowledge of a subject that one can summarize it in a few words ... and provide examples that leave you thinking ... "ok, I can do that, too (now, that I "get it"). That's the feeling, you're left with ... after this.
Full object orientation has been awhile in coming to PHP ... and this book couldn't have arrived at a better time. I'm delighted, made much more confident ... and inspired by it.
GET IT ... or you will be the loser for not having done so!
Rating: - Best I've yet found
Despite having read widely both online and off about the use of design patterns with PHP, I've usually been left unsatisfied. Most works on the subject are either too theoretical (and I'm a theory nut) or too rudimentary for those of us who are seeking a deep understanding but also need to employ these techniques quickly.
This book provided a pleasant contrast, providing detail of how to translate its theoretical examples into practical code and pre-empting many of my "yes, but..." moments. As a regular user of PHP5's OO features much of the introductory material was redundant for me, but it was a good summary and is moved quickly out of the way.
I'm recommending this book to other coders I'm working with, particularly those new to OO concepts, and still refer to it regularly.
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