Python newbie help

[s]

I'm not of the opinion that these styles of teaching are bad, it's
just how I learn.  Once I feel comfortable with a language and can
write a simple program, I can then branch out into the books and
tutorials that are more like references.  

You may have a lower opinion of these types of books but I think
they're really beneficial for people trying to get started and helping
them branch out into something more useful.  

I'm  still taking in suggestions.