hi in case anyone is interested. just found at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0672322528/ref=pd_sbs_b_2/103-8053225-7349446 there is a "Table of contents" list available. looks very cool just ordered a copy. and the publication date according to amazon is no langer january 02, but already in 3 weeks. just one day after "the ruby way" will be out and "ruby developers guide" will also be availabe in december christmas will be fine this year :-) markus