🚀 go-pugleaf

I seeking some guidance as to a good Java IDE and introductory Java book(s).

I have read numerous vendors sites and remain unsure as to what would be a
good Java IDE to purchase.

The main contenders appear to be

-- Borland's JBuilder
-- Symantec's Visualcafe
-- IBM's Visual Age for Java
-- Metroworks CodeWarrior

All of the above produce 100% pure Java code so I am at a loss as to which
is the preferable IDE.

In terms of value for money CodeWarrior seems attractive.

I don't think you can get a good feel for a product until you do non-trivial
development
using it.  For this reason the various trial versions are of limited value
(what will authoring toy applications and applets reveal ?).

I'd appreciate the input of those that have been involved with actual
application development with a particular IDE.

What is the most popular Java IDE in Australia ?  Which am I most likely to
encounter in a corporate setting ?

Additionally, I am also after some good introductory Java
books.

Thanks
Peter