Although much has changed since the first edition of this book [1] was published, the need for database systems remains. This second edition continues to be an essential resource for database practitioners and researchers, providing a thorough study of database systems. Most of the chapters have been extended to cover new and emerging technologies of database systems, such as Extensible Markup Language (XML) and Web information retrieval.

The first half of the book (chapters 1 to 12) is devoted to the basics of relational and semi-structured databases. Specifically, the most current database standards are covered: structured query language-1999 (SQL-1999), SQL/persistent stored modules (SQL/PSM), SQL/call-level interface (SQL/CLI), Java Database Connectivity (JDBC), object description language (ODL), and XML. I consider this to be core material for any course on database systems. The second half of the book (chapters 13 to 23) is mainly devoted to the implementation of database management systems (DBMSs), since it focuses on storage structures; query processing; transaction processing for concurrency control and recovery; and parallel and distributed databases. Chapters 21 to 23 treat information integration techniques, such as data warehousing and mediation; data mining approaches; and Web information retrieval techniques.

Although there are many books on the market that discuss this subject, this particular book is an excellent resource and could be used as the primary textbook for undergraduate and postgraduate database courses. A complete set of exercises is given in each chapter. I found most of the exercises quite educational.

Another element I really appreciate in this book is the practical advice the authors give for integrating current technologies with databases. For instance, the discussions on “how to successfully plan a database application before building [one] reflects how these plans [could be] developed in the real world.”

After reading this book, readers will have a complete picture of the complications that arise in building DBMSs. They will also have learned how to improve the performance of DBMSs and how to design complex ones, in order to manage real-world business applications and massive quantities of data. The discussion about cutting-edge technologies used in business applications, in the last part of the book, is also worth mentioning. Finally, the book’s Web site [2] is also very useful. It contains additional material, including homework assignments, projects, and exams.

This book will appeal to a large audience, including graduate and postgraduate students, research engineers, and application programmers. Overall, it is a comprehensive, well-written, and informative book that presents up-to-date coverage of an important and growing area of computer science.