Though I haven’t had much time for reading lately, I recently finished Learning Flex 3 by Alaric Cole. It’s a solid introduction to Flex, and while it doesn’t get too heavy on the intimate details of the Flex framework, I can definitely recommend it for people who are looking at Flex for the first time. The flow throughout the book is unique, and if you combine that with the stylish design, it’s an excellent read for a new Flex developer.

Cole’s writing style is clear and friendly, and he carefully introduces new features as they’re needed in his example applications. It’s a bit different from the progression I’ve seen in other programming books, but I found it refreshing and interesting in a way that I think will keep most readers interested. As with any programming book, I’m happy when I learn something new, and Alaric had some interesting tips for features in Flex Builder’s Design View that I’d never used (like highlighting container bounds). I tend to stick to the Code View as much as possible myself, but it’s still good to know.

My absolute favorite part about the book is the full-color content on every single page. Like Learning ActionScript 3.0, another Adobe Developer Library book by O’Reilly which I reviewed previously, the addition of color makes the book stand out from the pack. Every Flash or Flex book I’ve read in the past has included black and white screenshots. With RIA content being very much about visual appeal and design-heavy details, it makes sense to ensure that all visual references in the book are in color. I remember a couple books that I read previously where screenshots were useless because they didn’t make the greyscale transition very well. Learning Flex 3 continues to set a new standard for Flash and Flex books.

One thing Cole doesn’t focus on much is the language syntax for ActionScript 3.0. This is a book specifically about getting started with Flex, and you’re expected to know a bit about programming already. I personally enjoy this aspect because I’m tired of seeing yet another “This is a variable. This is a loop. This is a class.” introductory chapter. However, for true newbies, the lack of an AS3 introduction could make getting started a challenge. I already mentioned Learning ActionScript 3.0, and I assure you that it covers all the missing details. If you’re new to software development and programming, consider picking up both books since they offer a more comprehensive introduction for someone completely new to programming with either AS3 or Flex.

Full disclosure: When I worked at Yahoo!, Alaric and I had neighboring desks. Don’t let that stop you from taking my recommendation, though. Learning Flex 3 is a solid book for someone completely new to developing with Flex. If you have a bit of experience already, though, a more intermediate book like Programming Flex 3 might be a better choice. If you’re interested, I wrote a review of the Flex 2 version.