TechBookReport (http://www.techbookreport.com) has just published a
review of the Python Cookbook. This is an extract from the full review:
We're big fans of cookbooks here at TechBookReport, whether its Java,
XSLT or Linux, they're a great way of pulling together lots of useful
snippets of code and technique in one place. For the beginner they
provide instant advice, usable code and a way into new areas. They're
also a great way to find out about coding styles, idioms, common
workarounds and how to get the most out of your language (or operating
system, development environment or application…).
Given all of that then it should be no surprise that we love this second
edition of the Python Cookbook. There's no doubt about it, this is an
indispensable resource to have around. What's more, this latest edition
has been enhanced and updated for Python 2.4, and now features more than
330 recipes across 20 chapters. Note that the recipes only cover Python
2.3 and 2.4, for older versions readers should look for the first
edition of the book.
As with the rest of O'Reilly's cookbooks, this one has a standard format
for each recipe: state the problem, present a solution, discuss the
solution and provide cross-references and pointers to further material.
It's a good format, and allows each recipe to pretty much stand alone,
even if there are pointers to other recipes in the 'see also' section.
This makes the recipes a useful place to dip into for ideas and examples
when hacking your own code. As with a real cookbook this is one that has
a practical focus and belongs by your side when cooking not on some
shelf gathering dust.
Unlike most of the other books in the cookbook series, this one is not
the product of one or two authors but very much a community effort,
thanks in large part to the involvement of ActiveState. While the three
editors deserve credit for the good job they've done putting it all
together, it's down to the Python community for creating these recipes
and providing the feedback to hone and improve them.
Read the rest of the review here: http://www.techbookreport.com/tbr0163.html
