Beginning Google Maps Mashups with Mapplets, KML, and GeoRSS: From Novice to Professional

CHAPTER 4Building Out Your Map Page

By now you have the basics of the Google Maps API firmly in hand. You can put a map on a web page, stake out a location with a marker, and mash up third-party geodata. You've come a long way in just a couple of chapters.

But Google Maps can do much, much more. In this chapter and the next, you'll dip your toe into the larger ocean of map functionality as we build out a couple of example map pages. We'll start with the basics you already know and demonstrate lots of ways to expand your mapping horizons; some enhancements come prepackaged from Google, while others will stretch your own JavaScript abilities. But don't worry, I'll be guiding you through every step of the way—and in all cases, you'll find plenty ...