[June, 2013] I'm pleased to announce the release of the 5th Edition of the book Learning Python—the most comprehensive, and likely final, version of this classic and foundational Python language tutorial. This new edition has been brought thoroughly up-to-date with Python 3.3 and 2.7, and expanded substantially to reflect current practice in the Python world. Like its previous editions, this book also applies to all other Python releases in common use today. Whether you're using 3.X, 2.X, or both, you'll find this new edition tailored to your current and future needs. Among other language extensions, this edition incorporates Python 3.3's namespace packages and Windows launcher, as well as 2.7's adoption of 3.X features such as set and dictionary comprehensions. In addition, this version has grown more 2.X compatible, and has been augmented with enhanced coverage of tools such as super(), descriptors, the MRO, and metaclasses, which have grown more pervasive in today's Python code. As before, this book is designed to be an in-depth introduction to the core Python language, and work much like a self-paced class on Python fundamentals. Learning Python, 5th Edition is available from all the usual places in both print and ebook forms. O'Reilly's page listed below offers it in a variety of searchable electronic formats, including Safari onlne access, and an ebook bundle which comes with a general-purpose PDF, a Kindle-compatible MOBI, and an EPUB for other readers; an Android APK and Daisy format ZIP may be available as well. |
The following two books are designed to complement and augment Learning Python, forming a 3-book documentation set. Please note: there are no plans to release either of the following in 5th edition form. The first is already largely current with Python 3.3 and 2.7, and the second is an application-level book that is already 3.X-based, and deals more with libraries than language.
For a reference companion to this book, see also the book Python Pocket Reference, 4th Edition This book serves as supplemental reference-only material, and is intended to be a companion to Learning Python.
In addition, the applications-focused book Programming Python, 4th Edition is designed to be a follow-up to Learning Python. It covers what you can do with Python after you've mastered its language fundamentals. As a tutorial that moves on to explore common libraries and tools and present more complete example programs, Programming Python is intended to serve as the second of a two-book set.
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