The book begins with a general introduction to both Microsoft SQL Server and SQL databases. Understanding the conceptual model of relational databases and the associated terminology is critical, and Mann moves at a good clip through this material. Diagrams and screen shots illustrate key points and help solidify the terminology.
Next, Mann introduces basic and advanced objects such as tables, indexes, queries, and stored procedures. After this interactive instruction, the author dives into the SQL language, illustrating how to create database objects with the Data Definition Language (DDL) and work with it using the Data Manipulation Language (DML).
This book also covers enterprise issues such as data warehousing, backup and recovery techniques, and security issues. The book ties it all together with a list of online resources and third-party add-on products. If you've been curious about SQL Server, but thought it must involve dry academic learning, give this introduction a spin. --Stephen W. Plain