Paul Barry is formally educated and trained in Computer Science and holds a Masters Degree in Computing Science. He has been programming professionally, on and off, for close to 25 years. Paul already has two textbooks to his name, and is also a Contributing Editor to Linux Journal magazine. His day job is with the Institute of Technology, Carlow in Ireland where he has spent over a decade preparing Ireland’s next generation of computing folk to be productive in the workforce. His role as a third level educator affords him the opportunity to explore, learn and teach the very latest programming technologies and practices, which is something that he enjoys even though he knows this makes him a bonafide “geek”. Paul lives just outside the town of Carlow in Ireland with his wife, two sons, daughter, dog and cat. There’s a bunch of computers and a growing collection of music instruments in the house, too (and like a lot of the Head First family, Paul is a struggling guitarist trapped inside a geek’s body). He has so far resisted any suggestion that the family acquire a hamster … or a set of drums.

Are you keen to add Python to your programming skills? Learn quickly and have some fun at the same time with Head First Python. This book takes you beyond typical how-to manuals with engaging images, puzzles, stories, and quizzes that are proven to stimulate learning and retention. You’ll not only learn how Python differs from other programming languages and how it’s similar, you’ll learn how to be a great programmer.

Understand Python’s unique method of dynamically storing data

Build Python-enabled web servers and web applications

Write mobile apps on the Android platform

Use PyGame and PyKyra to develop sophisticated games

Build GUI-based programs with Python’s handy code library

Write Python scripts to automate tasks on your favorite applications

We think your time is too valuable to waste struggling with new concepts. Using the latest research in cognitive science and learning theory to craft a multi-sensory learning experience, Head First Python uses a visually rich format designed for the way your brain works, not a text-heavy approach that puts you to sleep.