AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) is a new approach for developing web applications. It essentially permits users to interact with a Webpage without forcing a slow & tedious reload of the entire page after every action. This means web applications become more responsive, easier to use, and more intuitive. Build Your Own Ajax Web Applications uses a step-by-step tutorial format that's so easy to follow, you'll be able to build sophisticated and intuitive Ajax web interfaces in no time!
Read this book, and you'll:
 

• Get an overview of the basic technologies you'll need to use to build Ajax applications.
• Understand the XMLHttpRequest object, the core of Ajax applications.
• Build a cross-browser XMLHttpRequest wrapper that you can use in all of your Ajax projects.
• Build an Ajax application monitor that works in real time.
• Learn how to use Ajax without breaking older browsers or causing accessibility issues.
• Get your Ajax application working with screen readers.
• Use dynamic animations to improve usability.
• Build edit-in-place functionality.
• Create an Ajax search application that pulls data from Amazon, del.icio.us, and Google.
• Fix the "Back button" problem.
• Use JSON, YAML, and XML to communicate with the server.
• Build an Ajax drag 'n' drop chess game.
• And a whole lot more!

  Throughout the text, the author stresses usability, accessibility, and graceful degradation for older, less-capable web browsers.