title: How can one implement a custom string class using the STL?
body: <p>In <code>C++ - The Complete Reference</code>, the author gives us a challenge after showing how he implements a custom C++ string class. Excerpt from the book:</p>
  
  <blockquote>
    <p>A Challenge:
    Try implementing StrType (the string class) using the STL. That is, use a container to store the characters that comprise a string. Use iterators to operate on the strings, and use the algorithms to perform the various string manipulations.</p>
  </blockquote>
  
  <p>I understand the basic concept here, but am having trouble implementing it. should I do <code>std::vector &lt; char &gt;</code> and <code>push_back</code> for every char or something like that? What about the string manipulations? Need some help. Sample code will be accepted gratefully, or you can explain how I may be able to implement this.</p>