The Python interpreted programming language is relatively easy to learn and use (especially when compared to C or C++), but that doesn’t mean you should do it on your own. Whether this is your first foray into programming or if you’re interested in adding Python to your repertoire, Apress’ Beginning Python can assist you in your learning.

Writing analysis

Beginning Python’s format is designed to accommodate both the beginner and the advanced programmer. Reading the book straight through will give you not only a good overview of the Python language, but also good programming principles. You don’t just learn what to do, you learn why doing it that way is a good idea.

Unlike many other programming books that tend toward the boring side, Beginning Python is both informative and entertaining. The author includes occasional Monty Python references throughout the book, some of which made me laugh out loud.

At the end of every chapter is a summary of the new concepts and techniques covered in the preceding text. This provides for an excellent review of the material you’ve just read, and also gives a good check-up for your notes.

Putting the book to the test

The only true negative point in Beginning Python is that the author never challenges readers to apply the concepts that they’re learning. There are no exercises or case studies, so you never have the chance to apply the knowledge you’re gaining. For many, this means that they can learn how to follow a Python program, but might not be able to write one on their own.

I do like the fact that experienced programmers can skip ahead to the appendix to get a crash course on how Python is used from the perspective of a C or C++ programmer. There are a few parts of the book where the author tells you what chapter to skip to if you don’t understand a fundamental concept, or if you’re too advanced for the subject of the chapter.

Conclusions

Due to the lack of exercises, experienced programmers will get more out of Beginning Python than beginners will. Despite that, this book is definitely worth buying if you have any interest in the Python language. It probably won’t convince you that Python is superior to your favorite programming language, but that’s more of a shortcoming of Python (and interpreted languages in general) than the book that teaches it.

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Copyright 2006 Jem Matzan.

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