The book is essentially divided into the different subjects that the Zend exam tests: Basics, Functions, Arrays etc, up to Streams, Security and XML & Webservices. Each is presented in bitesized chapters that concisely cover the subject matter, rather than providing an in depth view. Things get a little wierd when database programming is covered, as no PHP is really discussed in this chapter but a rudimentary knowledge of SQL is required for most people writting PHP so it makes sence to cover the subject. Throughout the book there are information points which contain tidbits of advice about the subject – which I assume are things which might not be tested directly in the exam, but are handy things to know, these are pretty neat.

My only real complaint is that the book spine is printed upside down. Seriously though – if you’re studying for the exam, or at least just thinking about taking it and want to make sure that your knoweledge of PHP is sufficient, or you’re already a competant developer, but you’re thinking of dabbling in PHP and want a quick guide to the syntax and nuances of the language, then this would be a great place to start.

Been looking forward to getting hold of this book for some time. Increasing the functionality of PHP through extensions is one of the coolest things you can do with PHP, and its also one of the most important – for the further development and continual improvement of PHP.

I know that I’m not alone in the wait for this book