Introductory & Beginning, Reference, Programming Languages 

Microsoft Windows™ PowerShell is a helpful scripting technology that enables the automation of system management tasks and the creation of system management tools. PowerShell runs on Windows XP, 2003, 2008, and Vista. Unlike traditional Windows shell scripting, PowerShell scripting is object-based and is designed to work with the .NET Framework. This completely updated edition of Microsoft Windows PowerShell Programming for the Absolute Beginner teaches aspiring programmers Windows PowerShell scripting whether they're using Windows PowerShell 1.0 or 2.0. To help make learning fun and interesting, you will learn how to program through the development of computer games, and you will develop a new game that reinforces a newly learned concept in each chapter. It's the easiest way to learn! By the time you have finished the book, not only will you have access to a collection of working sample scripts, you also will have laid a foundation upon which you can begin to tackle real-world challenges and new languages. - from Amzon