Core Python programming
by Wesley Chun · first published 2006
83% recommend17% neutral
Why HN recommends it
A thorough, readable tour of the Python language, suited to learners coming from other languages or those seeking a solid foundation. It is very readable and very good.
Summarised by Claude from recommending comments
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I found Core Python Programming by Wesley J. Chun is the best python book so far that I requested the university library to get it (among couple other books) for my research. I started with Beginning Python: From Novice to Professional.…
on “Ask YC: What is the best Python book for a beginner?” ↗A very good book is Core Python Programming by Wesley Chun. : http://www.amazon.com/Core-Python-Programming-2nd/dp/0132269... But it is not for total beginners.
on “What did you use to teach yourself Python?” ↗Core Python Programming (2nd Edition) by Wesley Chun (http://python.net/crew/wesc/cpp/) is very good. It's somewhat dated now, but is very readable. Once you've learned the language, David Beazley's Python Essential Reference…
on “Ask HN: How to learn Javascript and HTML for devs coming from C++/Java/Python?” ↗…version). That book has been very helpful for some people. The programming language environment used in HTDP can be downloaded from http://racket-lang.org. If you'd prefer Python, a real gem of a book is Core Python Programming by Westley Chun. Python btw, is an excellent choice for a first programming language.
on “Best program and books to learn how to code?” ↗…So, I decided to attempt to learn Java about a year or two ago. I have done OK with this, but unless you use a language in anger most days, you don't get very far. My latest attempt is Python. I like Core Python Programming 2nd edition by Wesley J. Chun. What I guess I am trying to say is, you need to work out where you want to be (successful business), and take small steps towards it. That maybe learning business stuff,…
on “Ask YC: Learning to hack...” ↗…news. But, instead of asking you for books that you recommend but you never read before, I feel like this question is more tangible. Now, look at your bookshelf, what books do you have? The books I have: Core Python Programming, CSS, DHTML & AJAX, Agile Web Development with Rails, The Rails Way, The Ruby Way, SAT 2008(Zzz), Made to Stick...
on “Ask HN: What's on your bookshelf?” ↗…resilience if you want to get the most out of them. One of the best introductions to Python is http://www.diveintopython.net/ but it's not in introduction to programming in general. If you want both try: Core Python Programming http://corepython.com/ - but it's not free. For learning a Python framework I would recommend the web2py book: http://web2py.com/book web2py makes you very productive, imo. You can find a great list…
on “Learning to program (Python) the right way?” ↗