This part serves as an introduction to the rest of the book. Though it is possible not to mention anything about .NET in a book about C# (C# is a standard in its own right), I would suggest at least a rudimentary understanding of Microsoft's grand .NET plan. Knowing what .NET is all about and the role that C# plays in it gives a good 'big picture' view and an appreciation of why C# has been designed in certain ways.
Chapters 1 and 2 give a whirlwind introduction to the world of .NET, including some other .NET- related technologies, without going into details. Important concepts such as how CLR works are covered in Chapter 1. I have also taken the liberty of including some personal opinions about the C# language in Chapter 2.
J# is briefly introduced in Chapter 3. Although this book is about C#, it will be useful to be at least acquainted with J#, especially since you have a Java background.
Part 1 ends with the all important "Hello World" program. If this is the first time you have met this new language, I highly recommend going through the Hello World exercise before continuing with the other parts of this book.
