After taking another look at JavaScript, I'm still not inclined to use it for server side or command line scripting. When I do need to use it, I'll keep JavaScript: The Good Parts handy. This slim volume tells you what you really need to know to write good programs with the language. In addition to showing you how to use the good parts of JavaScript, it provides guidance for avoiding or working around the bad parts. Since JavaScript has more than its share of warts, this is invaluable.