Book Review of Python Crash Course by Eric Matthes
Python is one of the most used programming language. It’s flexibility and usability make it an ideal language. Whether you’re a keen programmer, or just looking to explore, this language is the place to start. It has quite an easy syntax, and it’s extremely beginner friendly.
However, it’s difficult to know where to start. You will find millions of resources online, but none seem to be comprehensive and beginner-friendly. Well you’re in luck, because you have come to the right place!
In this article I review Eric Matthes’ book, Python Crash Course, arguable the easiest way to learn the language. It is the perfect place to start your Python journey.
Why is it important to learn a programming language?
Learning to code is a crucial skill. I cover the reasons why it’s important to code in this article, that I definitely recommend you read.
But, as a quick summary, learning to code…
1). Increases your employability
2). Helps you think more creatively and makes you a better problem solver
3). Gives you an in-depth understanding of computers
Moreover, it’s fun, if learnt correctly.
Why Python Crash Course?
Python Crash Course by Eric Matthes is an absolutely straightforward and beginner-friendly guide to learning Python effectively. Through his witty and humorous writing, Matthes simplifies Python concepts and makes learning the language a fun experience.
This book is all you need. Still not convinced? Here’s why it’s the easiest way to learn Python:
Comprehensive introduction to Python: This book covers all the basics you need to know, from the very start. The chapters are easy to follow, engaging, and well-organized. Each chapter includes overviews and summaries to reinforce what you’ve learned.
A hands-on approach: Matthes includes code snippets throughout the book to aid your understanding and teach concepts in an easy-to-digest manner. Additionally, there are revision exercises at the end of each section to solidify your understanding. These tasks encourage creativity and make learning fun.
After finishing the first part of the book—The Basics—Matthes guides you through creating your own Python projects. Whether it’s an Alien Invasion game, Data Visualization, or Web Applications, these projects further advance your knowledge and are enjoyable to work on.
Focus on best practices: Throughout the book, Matthes emphasizes best practices in coding. He explains the desired structure of your code and the acceptable norms laid out by the coding community. By applying these standards in his examples, Matthes ensures you learn the right way to code.
Encourages creativity: The exercises at the end of each chapter encourage you to solve problems creatively. Matthes only gives you a prompt; the rest is up to you. The code examples in the book are also interesting and engaging.
Accessible to a wide audience: Perhaps my favorite aspect of this book is its accessibility. It assumes no prior knowledge of computer science or coding. Every concept is explained in depth, starting from the basics. Learning Python from this book will not only teach you Python but also core programming skills that you can apply to other language
In summary, this book is one of the best resources for beginners looking to learn their first programming language or anyone looking to learn Python.
Why is this book different?
Most other ‘best Python books’ complicate matters. The language is extremely beginner-friendly, but by no means is it simple. Programming isn’t easy, as there are an infinite number of things you can do with it.
However, when starting out, getting the basics clear is fundamental. Many other books don’t focus on the basics. Instead, they get into the complex topics putting you off the language all together.
That being said, some books dumb-down the concepts. Though this makes learning the language easy, you’re not learning what’s necessary.
Eric Matthes finds the sweet spot in this book.
He goes through all the basics in the first part, and then moves onto the complexities in the second half. This book is the best of both worlds
Final thoughts
I cannot recommend this book enough. It really is a game changer. It teaches Python in the most effective way possible. By the end of it, you fall in love with the language
I urge you to buy this book if you’re at all interested in learning to code. The fact that you’ve made it this far in the article tells me you are. Good luck!
