When I first heard of this book, I immediately expected a deep dive through some of the more esoteric features of Python. When I got it and saw the subtitle, I began to suspect I was in store for something different; I was right. Expert Python Programming is a whirlwind tour that at least touches pretty much every aspect of software development.

The first few chapters cover getting Python, customizing the prompt, choosing an editor, and using the most current idioms. Then there's a quick chapter on design, both general and Python-specific. Then there's the chapter on building Python packages and using templates to reduce the tedium. Next, the author demonstrates most of these techniques with an actual project. Chapter 8 covers version control and continuous integration. The next chapter discusses the software development lifecycle and how to track it using software. Next are some tips on documenting ...

• gthank
• June 13, 2009
• Expert Python Programming
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Not a fan. A lot of code samples in the more technical sections but not with enough accompanying text to really drive home: a.) what the feature of Python is, b.) why you'd to use it and c.) when you wouldn't want to use it.

OTOH, it did highlight for me how messed up Python's packaging/install system is.

• cmheisel
• March 18, 2009
• Expert Python Programming
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Overall a good book with lots of useful content. The grammar is severely lacking and there are quite a few typos. The typography is not good at all -- I suggest the folks over at Pact Publishing read Elements of Typographic Style. The illustrations could also need some work as they were all grainy and used dissimilar typefaces compared to the body text.

• uggedal
• January 2, 2009
• Expert Python Programming
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