Preface

React Native is a library for creating mobile applications using familiar web technologies without sacrificing performance or the look and feel typically associated with fully native applications. It is built on top of Facebook’s open source JavaScript library, React, and indeed, iOS and Android applications created using the library are primarily written in JavaScript. Because one does not need to learn new languages, ecosystems, and best practices for each platform they work on, React Native is pushing the boundaries of what is possible for React developers.

In this book, we will look at the fundamental concepts of React and React Native, as well as the libraries and tools within the React Native ecosystem. We will also work towards the more practical goal of creating a complete React Native application. Finally, we’ll dig into useful and complex React Native concepts such as animation, navigation, native modules, testing and performance analysis. Upon turning over the last page of this book, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to create polished, sophisticated mobile applications using React Native.