Learning GraphQL

Why is GraphQL the most innovative technology for fetching data since Ajax? By providing a query language for your APIs and a runtime for fulfilling queries with your data, GraphQL presents a clear alternative to REST and ad hoc web service architectures. With this practical guide, Alex Banks and Eve Porcello deliver a clear learning path for frontend web developers, backend engineers, and project and product managers looking to get started with GraphQL.

You’ll explore graph theory, the graph data structure, and GraphQL types before learning hands-on how to build a schema for a photo-sharing application. This book also introduces you to Apollo Client, a popular framework you can use to connect GraphQL to your user interface.

• Explore graph theory and review popular graph examples in use today
• Learn how GraphQL applies database querying methods to the internet
• Create a schema for a PhotoShare application that serves as a roadmap and a contract between the frontend and backend teams
• Use JavaScript to build a fully functioning GraphQL service and Apollo to implement a client
• Learn how to prepare GraphQL APIs and clients for production

Table of Contents

Chapter 1. Welcome to GraphQL

Chapter 2. Graph Theory

Chapter 3. The GraphQL Query Language

Chapter 4. Designing a Schema

Chapter 5. Creating a GraphQL API

Chapter 6. GraphQL Clients

Chapter 7. GraphQL in the Real World

About the Author

Alex Banks and Eve Porcello are software engineers/architects, Lynda.com authors, instructors, and founders of Moon Highway. They have developed customized training curriculum on proprietary and open-sourced solutions. Alex and Eve teach JavaScript throughout the country at places including Yahoo!, eBay, PayPal, Stanford University, Macys.com, Starbucks, vmware, and many more.