[Tutor] Which Book

[Alan Gauld]

> I have very little programming experience, I have decided to learn
> Python..there are tons of material and references on the web-pages, 
> can
> you guys please suggest what is the best way to start or which ONE
> book which I should follow to start.

Despite the fact that my tutor is available in paper form I personally
don't recommend buying a beginners book - -they quickly become
redundant so they are poor value. I would advocate working through
the web tutorials (mine if you like:-) and then buy a goood reference
book (or two). Maybe a general treference like Python in a Nutshell
plus maybe a specialised one in the areas you are interested in
(Networks, Databases, Web, GUI, text processing etc)

But tastes in books is so subjective its hard to give recommendations.
I like generalist books like Programming Python, but many people
don't like that one at all. I didn't particularly like Text Processing 
in
Python, even though its the best book in its class - but I just didn't
like the style much. But I know others who think its a bit of a
masterpiece...

A lot will depend on your previoius experience too.
For example if you can already program in another language and
have a fair grasp of computer science terminology then my book
would be a complete waste of time, but if you only have ac minimal
experience and don;t know the CS terms my book would be a good
choice (he says immodestly!)

Best thing if possible is to borrow a copy (from a friend or library)
or if there is a web version read a bit there first.

HTH,

Alan Gauld
Author of the Learn to Program web site
http://www.freenetpages.co.uk/hp/alan.gauld