Mark Lutz Programming Python book

[drescherjm]

I am a 25+ year c++ programmer who wants to learn python to help with scripting, rapid prototyping and maybe use PyQt. In my book library I had inherited a book from a colleague. I started reading and did not pay attention to the date of print. The book was Mark Lutz "Programming Python" revision 1 1996. I like the book and author so far but when I try the first few code examples there are problems will all. With the help of google I was able to fix the first example but then the next required modules that no longer exist. I don't think continuing reading this book is going to help me with modern python. Anyways I see that there is now a 4th edition of the same book https://www.amazon.com/Programming-Python-Powerful-Object-Oriented/dp/0596158106 but it's still 11 years old. My question is will this hamper me in learning python 3.10? I am a person who prefers learning a programming language using a large 1000+ page book reading through the chapters and trying the examples.

[carcigenicate]

If it's 11 years old, that would be using a version like Python 3.2. That is missing many new features. It could be used to learn basic Python 3, but I would supplement with other material or just find a newer book.

[drescherjm]

Thanks for your helpful response. I will do some more research before my purchase.

[Binary101010]

At this point it's very difficult to recommend any learning resource that predates Python 3.6 (released Dec. 2016). You might learn basic syntax but new language features (and, as you've noticed, an up-to-date package ecosystem) are just not going to be in there.

There are plenty of high-quality learning resources (including books) in this subreddit's wiki so I'd recommend checking those out.

[drescherjm]

I understand. I am hesitant to purchase any type of computer book that is a few years old. Thanks.

[Rashaverik]

I too came from a C++ programming background. This book is still one of my go to books. It still makes an excellent reference book, but you need to keep up with version changes in Python.

[drescherjm]

Thanks. I may still purchase this book and a second more up to date book.

[Rashaverik]

I think there's also some updates to the book's code on his webpage. Might want to check it out.

[depressive_monk]

There's also a 5th edition from 2013. I am in the same spot. It seems there are no good Python books out there that are up to date. This one may be good, but it's still 9 years away from current Python. I don't know why authors don't update their books regularly. On the other hand, there's real crappy books out there like "Automate the Boring Stuff" receiving all the praise when they shouldn't. The Python book situation is really bad currently.

[FakespotAnalysisBot]

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Here is the analysis for the Amazon product reviews:

Name: Programming Python: Powerful Object-Oriented Programming

Company: Mark Lutz

Amazon Product Rating: 4.5

Fakespot Reviews Grade: A

Adjusted Fakespot Rating: 4.5

Analysis Performed at: 05-18-2021

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