Looking for a book on SQL Server that doesn't suck

In the spirit of being a developer and not a programmer ( http://software.ericsink.com/No_Programmers.html ), I'm finding myself doing lots of non-.net-programming things at my new job at a small startup.  One of those things is managing the development SQL Server  database, and writing stored procedures and stuff like that.  I found a lot of good, basic info on a number of different web sites, and of course I can ask the senior developer here some of my questions. 

Unfortunately, as I'm starting to try to learn about more advanced concepts, I'm discovering a diminishing return on my time investment spent looking up stuff on google, and I can't just monopolize my coworker's time.  Can anyone recommend some good books on DBA stuff?  Specifically, I'm looking for a practical book which explains some broader concepts, patterns, and pitfalls to watch out for.  Also one which has some good info on writing stored procedures and when to use triggers and stuff like that.  Basically, a book on MS SQL and/or SQL Server that doesn't suck; it doesn't matter whether it's at a beginner, intermediate or advanced level.

I'm hesitant to just troll amazon.com though.  I really don't know much about the world of MS SQL, and I've been burned before by randomly buying books on Amazon just based on reviews alone.  So I thought I'd solicit some book recommendations from the ever knowledgeable and helpful members of the JOS community (as opposed to the uninformed and unhelpful members of the JOS community ;) ).  Tips on good webpages on the topic are appreciated too. 

Thank you kindly.

John.

John Wilson
Friday, May 21, 2004

Guru's
Inside Sql Server 2000

Li-fan Chen
Friday, May 21, 2004

I agree with inside SQL2000.

A very good book

Mike Grace
Friday, May 21, 2004

I use SQL Server 2000 Programming by Robert Vieira.  Lots of good examples, and he explains when to use certain techniques.  It doesn't really delve into the admin side of things too much, as it's designed for programmers.  ie - if you want to learn performance tuning, look elsewhere.

My only complaint is his picture is on the front, the spine, and the back.  It's kinda unnerving.  I try to keep another book on top of it when i'm not using it. 

nathan
Friday, May 21, 2004

>>My only complaint is his picture is on the front, the spine, >>and the back.  It's kinda unnerving.

On the contrary, I find Mr. Vieira quite sexy!

nathan lane
Friday, May 21, 2004

Inside Sql Server 2000

Canuck
Friday, May 21, 2004

I can't recommend an MS SQL specific book, but for general SQL, the best book I've ever seen is "SQL For Smarties".

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1558605762

Brad Wilson (dotnetguy.techieswithcats.com)
Saturday, May 22, 2004

SQL for Smarties by Joe Celko will teach you to think in sets. Inside SQL Server 2000 by Karen Delaney will teach you how the server works internally. The Guru's Guide to Transact-SQL by Ken Henderson (or one of his two other Guru books) will teach you how to write stored procedures, as well as plenty of other useful things.

Rhys Weekley
Saturday, May 22, 2004

Another recommendation for Delaney's Inside SQL Server 2000. Her books on SQL Server 7 and 2000 are probably some of the most informative and detailed books on SQL Server out there.

Mark Hoffman
Saturday, May 22, 2004

I was wondering if I should mention Smartie's, kudos to Brad

Li-fan Chen
Sunday, May 23, 2004

Both of Henderson's "Guru's Guide..." are very good.

extra lite
Monday, May 24, 2004

"Inside SQL Server 2000 by Karen Delaney"

her name is actually Kalen

imnkd (I am not Kalen Delaney)
Monday, May 24, 2004

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