Core Java 1.2: Volume 1 Fundamentals by Gary Cornell, Cay Horstmann (Publisher: Prentice Hall Computer Books) is perfect for experienced programmers, since it covers both the fundamentals and the advanced tips and tricks of the experts. It provides coverage of all Java features and syntax as well as Visual Basic and C/C++ tips that compare and contrast features of Java to these languages.

It gives a thorough understanding of the Java programming language so that you can write high quality code. The author explores new design patterns and language idioms, showing how to make the most of features ranging from generics to enums.

Directly from the creators of the Java™ programming language, this is an indispensable resource for novice and advanced programmers alike. The authors systematically cover most classes in Java’s main packages presenting in-depth explanations of why these classes work as they do.

Java books assumes some programming background. It is definitely the most entertaining reading of any of the Java books.

This is a Java programming tutorial for an undergraduate audience. It is perfect to begin learning Java to build complex applications.