Developing Mainframe Java Applications

As simple Web access to data housed on corporate mainframes is fast becoming a core business requirement, mainframe programmers need to learn how to develop Java applications to keep pace with growing corporate needs. Focusing on concepts familiar to mainframe programmers, this book gives step-by-step guidance on how to use Java to access file and database structures common to mainframe environments. After comparing Java and mainframe languages such as COBOL and PL/I, Marco goes on to cover Java implementations for IBM's OS/390 and advanced Java programming techniques, including Java classes and EJB.
A must-read for anyone who needs to provide users with access to business data via a Web interface, this book is a logical companion to System 390 JCL (0-471-28309-6), our bestselling mainframe programming book now in its fourth edition.

User review
Pretty good with qualifications
Yes he is funny and down to earth, yes he speaks `mainframe`. This book does an excellent job of explaining Java to the mainframe crowd BUT,,. 2 bones to pick.
First problem I noted was that sometimes, in trying to show the examples of PL/1 and COBOL, the language becomes very confusing about how it would work in each of the languages. He is not clear.
Second, his COBOL examples have glaring syntax errors. Seems like a simple thing that should have been verified. It is not just once or twice, it happens throughout the book.
If you need a good intermediate level book and can get past the noted problems, he will take you through the process of learning Java. Most importantly, it is the only book I've found that addresses the mainframe environment and java. Another good choice for getting started in rudimentary java is `Java for the COBOL Programmer` by Doke and Hardgrave. That book does a better job of teaching the COBOL person but is just a starter book. Developing Mainframe Java applications has wider depth and range.

User review
My Favorite Java Book
Ever read a FUNNY technical book? I love this author!

How nice to find a Java book written for the stodgy old mainframe folks,,.

Thank you Mr. Marco

User review
Good Java info for COBOL programmers
As a COBOL programmer, I'm glad I could read a book that presents Java without mystery or hype. I appreciate seeing Java at work with IBM mainframe technologies that I've used for years.