Choosing a software design course often comes down to one question: will it actually teach you the software you need? With the Macromedia Dreamweaver 8, Flash 8, and Fireworks 8 Web Collection, Revealed Deluxe Education Edition, you're looking at a single trade paperback that attempts to cover three major web design tools. Is it the right course material for your learning goals? Let's dig into the details.
Macromedia Dreamweaver 8, Flash 8, And Fireworks 8: The Web Collection, Revealed Deluxe Education Edition
This book bundles instruction for Dreamweaver 8, Flash 8, and Fireworks 8 into one trade paperback. Authored by Barbara M. Waxer, Sherry Bishop, and James E. Shuman, it carries ISBN 9781418843076. The listing describes the copy as Very Good and prices it at USD 10.18. That price is a concrete reason to consider it: you're getting a classroom-style education edition for the cost of a cheap meal. The clear limitation is the version-specific focus-if you're using a different software version, you'll need to adapt the lessons. Also, the listing notes that stock photos may differ from the actual product, so your copy may show some wear.
Quick Verdict
For learners who need to master these exact versions of Dreamweaver, Flash, and Fireworks, this book offers a structured educational path at a low cost. The Deluxe Education Edition label points to a teaching-oriented layout, and the combined coverage of three tools makes it a practical one-stop resource.
Who It Suits
This is a sensible pick if you're taking a course that specifically uses version 8 of these tools, or if you prefer learning from a physical step-by-step text. It's also a nice fit for a self-study learner who wants a broad, integrated view of web design without subscribing to separate tutorials for each app.
What Stands Out from the Listed Details
The all-in-one structure is the main standout. You get three applications in a single volume, which can save you from buying multiple guides. The book is a substantial trade paperback-about 46.5 ounces, 9.1 inches long, and 1.2 inches thick-so it's a thorough reference, not a flimsy pamphlet. The authors' names appear on the cover, and the education edition format suggests it's designed for systematic study.
Meaningful Trade-offs
The biggest trade-off is the version lock-in. This book teaches version 8 of each tool, not newer or older releases. If your software doesn't match, you'll have to translate unfamiliar interface names and menu locations. Additionally, this is a used copy rated Very Good, so there may be minor cosmetic flaws. The stock-photo disclaimer reinforces that the cover you see isn't necessarily the one you'll get. And because it's a heavy paperback, it's better suited for desk use than casual reading on a couch.
Bottom Line
The Macromedia Dreamweaver 8, Flash 8, and Fireworks 8 Web Collection, Revealed Deluxe Education Edition fills a specific niche: learners who want one education-focused guide to these three tools. The listed price makes it an accessible experiment for a classic web design workflow. Just confirm your software version matches before you buy.
