Great books / sources to learn C++ that are not just "Following along"?

Dev Zone Code
1

I am fed up with following tutorials that say "Type this, then type this" and teach nothing about the code i am using and what it does.

Are there any good sources that will teach me C++ that tell me what the code actually does? (E.g this is used for ...... etc)

NOTE - complete newbie day 1 learner, so bear in mind please (Oh no, a bear)

Thanks in advance guys

2

Search for a book called 'Jumping into C++'. I'm using it right now and have found it to be a useful book (ebook). It has quizzes at the end of each chapter so it isn't just following along. Engages the ol' grey matter as well :) Tis 20 dollars, but it's well worh it.

3

"c++ Without Fear" has a lot of good feedback It doesn't have the quizzes though I'm now interested in the one bcchampion96 uses.

4

http://stackoverflow.com/questions/388242/the-definitive-c-book-guide-and-list *bam*

http://programming-motherfucker.com/ *pelvic thrust*

http://www.3dbuzz.com/Training *swaaaaag*

5

I approve and want to educate OP: use google!

6

I'd agree that using google for answers is good. However, many times I find myself craving "teksyndicatesque" answers and/or more personal answers - those are scarce with google.

To answer the OP: Whichever language you aim to master, I'd suggest Code Complete. I've got both editions (the one from '93 and the one from '04), and they've both given me tremendous benefits - both in my career and in everyday hobby programming. It is often considered as "The Programming Bible" because it addresses a ton of everyday programming issues and semantics across all languages, and backs everything it claims with fact, studies, and references. To learn C++ or any programming language/syntax is one thing. But to learn how to distinguish yourself from the pack and to be a great co-operative and collaborative programmer is everything in everyday programming - and this book teaches you everything. Everything. It does not teach you how the C++ syntax works, but it teaches you how to program and proceed with reason once you know C++. In my opinion and experience, this book is essential to your progress unless you want to waste 25 years programming and writing the same book as Code Complete in year 2038. 

Some sites suggesting the book (all are valid and widely used sites for programming issues and/or books):