This book does a good job of explaining how a relational database works but has its downfalls. One of the most important topics, Entity Relationship Diagrams, is almost entirely left out. ERD's are not technical nor hard to understand for the mere mortal. I purchased the book with the intention of brushing up on rusty DB skills. When I completed the book (after skimming) it seemed I didn't learn anything new. When completed with this book you will not be equipped with the basic skills to build a sound database. You will understand the principles of a sound database but you will not be equipped with the tools to build one. I want my money back.