Rating: 

1. The writers know their stuff.

2. Thanks to the Head First series, this book explains design patterns in a clear and concise way.

If the book wouldn't contain the detailed illustrations and visual metaphors that not only remain in your brain but explain and refrain from traumatic eye strain, then I believe that 95% of the design pattern students would inherently be failures at the subject.

You don't remember what you do not understand. It's one thing to try remember zen like explanations for a day, it's insane to think that you would remember it for the rest of your life - let alone use it!

3. I love Mac OS 10. :)

A hearty thanks to the Head First crew.