Hibernate makes it far easier to build robust, high-performance database applications with Java. Now there's a practical, hands-on guide to using Hibernate's flexible, fast object/relational persistence and query services. Will Iverson covers every facet of development with Hibernate, from its mapping system to its advanced query mechanisms and transaction support.

Iverson shows you how to build Hibernate solutions that can integrate with Swing, with JSP, and even with EJBs utilizing bean-managed persistence. Using realistic examples, he demonstrates how to work with persistent objects, manage schema, and optimize database application performance. After you've mastered Hibernate's core techniques, Iverson presents best practices, tips, tricks, and style guidance for even more effective development. Coverage includes

• Case study applications: starting from object/relational mapping files, Java code, and existing schema

• Writing Hibernate queries using HQLHibernate's object-oriented SQL extension

• Using Hibernate with Java-based Criteria and Example or native SQL

• The Hibernate mapping file format in detail: a complete reference

• How Hibernate handles class and database relationships

• Managing session and database transactions with Hibernate

• Tracking and optimizing performance with p6spy and IronTrack SQL

• Automatically generating DDL scripts that create, update, and drop tables

Even if your Java database experience is limited to basic JDBC, this book will help you leverage Hibernate's remarkable power. You'll spend far less time writing code to bridge databases with Java applicationsso you can get to market faster, with more features.