How should I go about learning Java?

[grimmstaBB]

Ok, so correct me if I am wrong, but Java is the language that is used on the BB for applications.

Does anybody have any good suggestions for learning Java, books, tutorials, online classed etc.? Also, how long should it take me to learn the language until I can start making some decent applications that use the GPS?

Thank you for any help you can provide!!

[synthmole]

What's your background?

In my opinion the best Java learning book is: Amazon.com: Thinking in Java (4th Edition) (9780131872486): Bruce Eckel: Books

Assumes you already know how to program. It's not an easy read but working through it will be worthwhile. There is also an electronic version for download.

One can write a Java program without actually knowing Java and it shows. Whether it would be good enough to write an app is hard to say. Phone apps are small and simple, but can also be tricky because of the restrictions of the hardware.

[grimmstaBB]

Unfortunately, I don't know how to program already. I've learned a little and for the most part can understand code and can make sense of it but writing it is a little beyond me...as of now.

[synthmole]

Okay. I think this book would be much better then: Amazon.com: Head First Java, 2nd Edition (9780596009205): Kathy Sierra, Bert Bates: Books

[grimmstaBB]

Great! Thank you, it looks like it got great reviews too! I'm gonna get it and hopefully get some applications out this winter.

Thanks again.