I started using AppleScript years ago, and Matt Neuburg’s book is the only one I used.
Several of my short scripts are still working after decades. The folder where I store my Applescripts have some that were created in 2005. Paired with an app to activate Applescripts (e.g. Keyboard Maestro), I managed to avoid using multiple 3rd party apps.
Back then, Doug’s AppleScripts was quite useful. It is focused on iTunes, and I guess Apple Music now.
Unfortunately, several Apple apps remain not-Applescriptable directly. Which is a refrain also going back decades. I haven’t had a need to write scripts for Apple Mail.