Book excerpt: Learn to program with Kotlin, one of the fastest-growing programming languages available today Programming Kotlin Applications: Building Mobile and Server-Side Applications with Kotlin drops readers into the fast lane for learning to develop with the Kotlin programming language. Authored by accomplished cloud consultant and technology professional Brett McLaughlin, Programming Kotlin Applications provides readers with the pragmatic and practical advice they need to build their very first Kotlin applications. Designed to give readers a thorough understanding of Kotlin that goes beyond mere mobile programming, this book will help you: Learn how to develop your first Kotlin project Understand how Kotlin securely protects and stores information Advocate for using Kotlin in your own professional and personal environments Understand Kotlin's goals and how to use it as its best Know when to avoid using Kotlin Programming Kotlin Applications is written in a highly approachable and accessible way without the fluff and unrealistic samples that characterize some of its competitor guides. Perfect for developers familiar with another object-oriented programming language like Java or Ruby, or for people who want to advance their skillset in the Kotlin environment, this book is an indispensable addition to any programmer’s library.