22 Best Books to Learn Python For Beginners: Cracking the Code

Discover our guide to the best books to learn Python for beginners; you’ll become an IT wizard in no time at all with these informative books.

An uber-popular programming language, it’s likely that you’ve already interacted with Python, even if you don’t know it. From supporting your Spotify playlist to controlling self-driving vehicles, Python is everywhere. This general-purpose language is used across various software applications and is regarded as one of the industry-best options for automating processes. 

If you’re considering a career in computer programming, understanding Python can give you a leg up against the competition. Check out our list of the best books to learn Python for beginners to get started. If you’re interested in this topic, you’ll also love our round-up of the best books for computer science!

02/18/2024 10:12 am GMT

1. Python Programming for Beginners by Philip Robbins

Whether you’re interested in setting yourself up for success in a work-from-home programming job or just looking to learn, Python Programming for Beginners is a great place to start. In this guide, you’ll come back to three principles time and again: synthesis, simplicity, and practicality. Robbins works to give readers both a real-world and theoretical understanding of Python concepts, allowing them to become competitive job seekers in the programming industry. In addition to providing readers with a comprehensive overview of Python, you’ll also get tips on acing your first job interview for a computer programming position.

“Python is based on the idea that there is only one way to solve a problem, which is different from the idea behind programming languages like Pearl, which is that there are many ways to solve a problem. So, Python gave the programming community the discipline it needed and made software development grow by a factor of ten.”

Philip Robbins, Python Programming for Beginners

Check out Python Programming for Beginners on Amazon; click here.

2. Python Programming and SQL by Mark Reed

If you’re interested in breaking into the programming field but need help figuring out how to get started, you’ll want to add Python Programming and SQL to your library. Learning Python and SQL (two of the most popular programming languages in today’s tech industry) will give you a leg up on the competition. You’ll learn how to use both programs to benefit your databases and discuss Python and SQL in a way that makes sense to people unfamiliar with the programs, setting you up for successful collaboration in the workplace. You’ll also be able to access resources and support from active SQL and Python programming communities online.

“Fortunately, modern SQL databases allow us full control over them through data management systems and syntax. Through SQL we can create and manage databases that contain where from, say, twenty data items to thousands.”

Mark Reed, Python Programming and SQL

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3. Python Programming for Beginners: From Zero to Hero by Oliver Morgan

Python Programming for Beginners: From Zero to Hero is the perfect starting point for those who know they want to further their IT knowledge but aren’t sure where to start or are working with limited time. This book teaches you basic Python concepts before building up to coding strings, dictionaries, and sets. You’ll also learn about object-oriented programming and work through real-life Python problems to help you get the experience you need to code confidently. 

“Python’s user-friendly nature means you don’t need to be a computer genius to understand it. We’ll start from scratch, building a solid foundation of knowledge that will empower you to write your own programs and bring your ideas to life. From creating simple games to automating everyday tasks, Python is your key to unlocking endless possibilities.”

Oliver Morgan, Python Programming for Beginners: From Zero to Hero

Check out Python Programming for Beginners: From Zero to Hero on Amazon; click here.

4. Python Crash Course by Eric Matthes

Python Crash Course is an excellent fit for when you need to learn Python fast. The book teaches readers how to create 2D games that keep you having fun while mastering new topics. Each of the concepts you learn will add up to help you create a Space Invaders-style arcade game, and you’ll get to kick back and marvel as you see all that you learned in action. Currently the bestselling guide to Python programming, this text will allow you to work through several Python libraries, including Django, Plotly, Matplotlib, Pytest, and Pygame.

Check out Python Crash Course on Amazon; click here.

5. Learn Python in One Day and Learn it Well by Jamie Chan

Deciding to learn computer programming can seem impossible, and putting it off is easy until you run out of time. With Learn Python in One Day and Learn it Well, you can kick your excuses to the curb. All you need is to dedicate one afternoon to reading this book, which will have you coding in no time. Readers especially love the examples in Learn Python; they make it simple to understand the concepts described by Chan and make it easy to apply the book’s topics to real life.

“If you are new to programming, Python is a great place to start. One of the key features of Python is its simplicity, making it the ideal language for beginners to learn.”

Jamie Chan, Learn Python in One Day and Learn it Well

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6. Python 3: The Comprehensive Guide by Johannes Ernesti and Peter Kaiser

Python 3: The Comprehensive Guide provides an in-depth look at everything Python, from basic core concepts to how to use GUIs. While this book is a great fit for someone new to Python, it’s also a good choice for those familiar with the programming language and looking to enhance their understanding. In addition to providing you with deep knowledge of Python concepts, you’ll get access to downloadable program examples that allow you to see code in action. Perfect for new programmers and experienced pros, you’ll be assured that you’ll have all the answers to your Python questions at your fingertips.

“Basically, Python is an imperative programming language, which combines other programming paradigms in it. For example, Python allows you to perform object-oriented and functional programming. If you can’t make sense of these terms at the moment, don’t worry; after all, you’re supposed to learn programming with Python and thus the application of the different paradigms in this book.”

Johannes Ernesti and Peter Kaiser, Python 3: The Comprehensive Guide

Check out Python 3: The Comprehensive Guide on Amazon; click here.

7. Python Programming for Beginners: A Kid’s Guide to Coding Fundamentals by Patricia Foster

Python Programming for Beginners: A Kid’s Guide to Coding Fundamentals is an excellent way for kids and teens to begin their journey into coding. This book digs into everything you need to know to understand coding basics and offers fun activities to help kids learn about data types, loops, variables and more. The activities provided in Python Programming for Beginners get tougher as they go, continually presenting new challenges. While the explanations in the book are pretty simple, the concepts aren’t, and readers will finish the book with a solid understanding of Python.

“Writing a program is a bit like explaining to an alien how to go to school. The alien has never visited Earth, so they don’t know what a school is, or a bus, or recess, or homework. You have to explain everything!”

Patricia Foster, Python Programming for Beginners: A Kid’s Guide to Coding Fundamentals

Check out Python Programming for Beginners: A Kid’s Guide to Coding Fundamentals on Amazon; click here.

8. Python for Absolute Beginners by Oliver Theobald

Python for Absolute Beginners is the perfect book for those who have always been interested in programming but need help figuring out how to get started. The book’s first chapter will walk you through the basics of Python in a language that makes sense. The book builds on each chapter, offering more complex concepts as you move forward. You’ll be able to check your knowledge as you read with quizzes and exercises, allowing you to go back and re-read any portions you didn’t quite get the hang of the first time around. You can also download the code included in the book for free video lessons corresponding to several chapters.

“After setting up a development environment for Python 3, we are ready to begin coding! Let’s start by exploring how input code is deciphered by the Python interpreter to generate an output.”

Oliver Theobald, Python for Absolute Beginners

Check out Python for Absolute Beginner on Amazon; click here.

9. Machine Learning with Python by Oliver Theobald

Not so long ago, the concept of machine learning sounded like something out of a science fiction novel. Today, machine learning is commonplace and necessary in today’s marketplace. In Machine Learning with Python, you’ll benefit from Oliver Theobald’s tech expertise in a way that makes sense. By the end of the book, you’ll know how to code a machine learning prediction model, code 10 different models using Python, write your model, and understand dataset relationships. Software engineers, this text is a must-have.

“The initial blueprints for machine learning were conceived by Arthur Samuel while working for IBM as an engineer in the late 1950s. Samuel defined machine learning as a subfield of computer science that provides computers the ability to learn without being explicitly programmed.”

Oliver Theobald, Machine Learning with Python

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10. Python Programming Unlocked for Beginners by Cuantum Technologies

Python Programming Unlocked for Beginners provides a comprehensive guide to the fundamentals of the Python programming language. If you’re looking for a quick start, search elsewhere. Python Programming Unlocked provides an in-depth course on everything you need to know to get started with Python. You’ll work through step-by-step exercises and delve into real-world projects that will solidify your understanding of the program and learn industry-best practices that will leave you ready to code with those at the top of your field. No matter where you’re in your programming journey, you’ll want to make this text a mainstay on your office bookshelf.

“Python is known for its simplicity, readability, and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for both newcomers and seasoned developers alike. It is a powerful, high-level, general-purpose programming language that is used in various domains, including web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, scientific computing, and more.”

Cuantum Technologies, Python Programming Unlocked for Beginners

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11. Coding for Kids by Mike McGrath

Coding for Kids is a fantastic option for young minds ready to start with programming (or for adult minds looking for a well-explained, easy-to-follow guide to Python). Your kiddo will learn how to go through the basics of building a webpage, how to create blocks of code with built-in functions that lend themselves to a fantastic user experience, and how to provide users with data that’s easy to understand. Coding for Kids is a fun, educational gift for the tech-minded little one in your life, and they’ll love the final project, in which they get to create an interactive game. 

“In HTML, unordered lists are created with <ul> </ul> tags, which provide a container for list items. Each list item can be created using <li> </li> tags to enclose the item. An unordered list <ul> element can contain numerous list item <li> elements.”

Mike McGrath, Coding for Kids

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12. Automate the Boring Stuff with Python by Al Sweigart

Renaming files. Updating spreadsheets. Combing through data to find what you need before a meeting with a client. With Automate the Boring Stuff with Python, you can cross this stuff off your to-do list and start having your computer do it for you. As you read through Automate the Boring Stuff, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to put your software to work, allowing you to focus on the aspects of your career or business that require all of your energy. You can use the skills you learn here to make your life easier or to begin a new career path.

“Python evaluates the not operators first, then the and operators, and then the or operators.”

Al Sweigart, Automate the Boring Stuff with Python

Check out Automate the Boring Stuff with Python on Amazon; click here.

13. Python QuickStart Guide by Robert Oliver

Ready to tackle a Python project for the first time? Whether you’re experienced in working with the code or need help figuring out where to start, Python QuickStart Guide will give you the touch points you need to grasp the fundamentals of Python. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by other programming guides, Oliver’s step-by-step, to-the-point approach will help you begin the path toward becoming a programmer or just understand the terminology behind your favorite video games or artificial intelligence applications. 

“Now, what is Python in everyday terms? It’s an awesome programming language that lets you do a wide variety of tasks–everything from system utilities to business programs to games to website backend and even artificial intelligence. Many Fortune 500 companies use Python, including household names like Google, IBM, Intel, Netflix, and Spotify. And Python is very popular in scientific circles. In fact, NASA uses Python heavily.”

Robert Oliver, Python QuickStart Guide

Check out Python QuickStart Guide on Amazon; click here.

14. Learn Coding Basics in Hours with Python by The Tech Academy, Jack C. Stanley, et al.

Learn Coding Basics in Hours with Python will give you a solid foundation to help you understand Python. The experts at The Tech Academy create coding boot camp classes that teach students how to code fast, and their experience and know-how are wrapped up wonderfully in this quick read. A note from reviewers: If you already have a basic understanding of Python, you can skip the first 50 pages and get into the nitty-gritty of understanding programming language. If you’re new to the coding world, you’ll want to start at the beginning. Either way, you’ll be able to get through the book quickly.

“Everything ever done by a computer was predetermined by humans. Even so-called “artificial intelligence” (computer systems that are able to perform actions that require human intelligence, like being able to recognize sounds and images), or computers that can “learn,” only have these abilities because we designed them that way.”

The Tech Academy, Jack C. Stanley, et al., Learn Coding Basics in Hours with Python

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15. Python Programming for Beginners: Mastering in 1 Week by Mark Gowen

Python Programming for Beginners: Mastering in 1 Week takes you from wondering what Python is to speaking the program’s language, writing code, and digging into your company’s data sets with ease. This book gives an excellent base for those without prior knowledge of Python before diving into how to use the program to work with data and create your first program. At the end of each chapter, you’ll find exercises to help you confidently move forward.

“Learning Python programming can help you get the best kind of jobs in the industry because companies are looking for professionals who are proficient in this language. Those who know the Python language are given preference over other freshers in technical interviews.”

Mark Gowen, Python Programming for Beginners: Mastering in 1 Week

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16. Python for Beginners: Learn Python Programming with No Coding Experience in 7 Days by Santos Ozoemena, Omar Inshanally, et al. 

You know that computer programming is a great field to get into, but if you have yet to learn about the difference between programming languages, it’s essential to get familiar with the tools used to develop programs before you think about diving into a new career field. Python for Beginners: Learn Python Programming with No Coding Experience in 7 Days gives you the knowledge you’ll need to compete in the IT field.

There’s no need to be apprehensive about getting started with Python. As you’ll see in Python for Beginners, the programming language is super simple and intuitive. A quick note: If you have experience in programming, this option may be too basic for your needs; you might want to look at something a little more in-depth.

“Python, unlike C++, is an interpreted language rather than a compiled one. You can get started without setting up a complex development environment. You don’t have to worry about defining types for variables and objects, making it very flexible to start learning programming with Python.”

Santos Ozoemena, Omar Inshanally, et al., Python for Beginners: Learn Python Programming with No Coding Experience in 7 Days

Check out Python for Beginners: Learn Python Programming with No Coding Experience in 7 Days on Amazon; click here.

17. Python for Beginners: A Crash Course Guide to Learn Python in 1 Week by Timothy C. Needham

Python for Beginners: A Crash Course Guide to Learn Python in 1 Week takes you through the basics of Python in just seven quick days. After getting a solid lesson on the background of Python, you’ll learn how to download and install the program, learn the language used by Python, and begin developing your programs, one line of code at a time. Whether you’re experienced in other programming languages or have no idea about this commonly-used programming language used by Facebook, Dropbox, Google, and more, you’ll feel confident and well-educated on the basics of Python by the time you reach the end of the week.  

“By the end of this book therefore, we will not only be interested in the correctness of your solutions; we shall also look at whether we can understand how the program you create solves the problem.”

Timothy C. Needham, Python for Beginners: A Crash Course to Learn Python in 1 Week

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18. Python for Beginners: A Practical Guide to Learning Python in One Hour by Younis

Quick! Your boss tells you they need someone who can understand Python and has no time to spare. Python for Beginners: A Practical Guide to Learning Python in One Hour gives you the basics to install Python, understand control structures, and even write your own quick Python program (and keep your boss happy). Suppose you’re a computer programming course student. In that case, Python for Beginners can give you the basics before you step into the classroom, allowing you to engage with course material confidently. This practical guide will help you learn the basics of the program behind software applications, data analysis tools, and artificial intelligence bots.

“Nonetheless, Python is still there making a great difference in the way organizations function and many common systems and applications have settled for Python for their development. Some of them include YouTube, Google Search, Bittorrent, NASA, Even Online, iRobot machines, Yahoo, Facebook, Maya, and many others.”

Younis, Python for Beginners: A Practical Guide to Learning Python in One Hour

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19. Learn Python with Monsters: A Fun Way to Begin Programming by Thomas McGlone

Learn Python with Monsters: A Fun Way to Begin Programming is an excellent fit for those who want to take a fun, hands-on approach to learning Python to create programs. This book is an ideal fit for those new to the world of coding and those with some real-world experience. You’ll get to create 35 small programs that will test your knowledge and skills and create monster-themed games that will keep you engaged and excited to learn the next skill. This book’s playful, fun nature makes it perfect for kids and adults alike – if you’ve been trying to get your kids interested in coding, the programs included here can be fun to work through together.

Check out Learn Python with Monsters: A Fun Way to Begin Programming on Amazon; click here.

20. Master Python Fundamentals: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners by Benjamin Bennett Alexander

Required to learn Python for a new project at work? Want to learn how to develop your automation processes for your home business? Master Python Fundamentals: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners is the perfect way to dive into programming. Alexander does a great job of tackling challenging concepts in a way newbies can understand, making this text an excellent fit for budding data analysts, web developers, data scientists, and engineers.

Suppose you’ve tried books that explain Python theory but fail to give concrete examples. In that case, you’ll love what you find in Master Python Fundamentals: a solid combination of explanations and hands-on practice that lets you rest assured that you’ve got it down.

“Now that you have installed Python and an IDE, it is time to write your first code. You will type print(” hello, world”) as per the tradition of the programming word. Now run your code. The output should be Hello, world. Congratulations, you have officially created your first Python program.”

Benjamin Bennett Alexander, Master Python Fundamentals: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

Check out Master Python Fundamentals: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners on Amazon; click here.

21. Python Programming for Beginners: The Ultimate Crash Course to Learn Python Coding Quickly and Easily by Leonard J. Ledger

Python Programming for Beginners: The Ultimate Crash Course to Learn Python Coding Quickly and Easily was designed by former private IT consultant and current professor Leonard J. Ledger, who wanted to create a simple way for programming newbies to quickly grasp Python. The author focuses on providing readers with practical, simple explanations that make sense even if it’s your first time diving into the world of computer science. With step-by-step graphics that explain each step of the programming process, you’ll know that you’ve mastered each concept before you move on to the next. 

“Monty Python, a comedy group, is the inspiration for the name of this language. The language is being used in a wide variety of application fields. These include applications for education and scientific research, as well as software development and web development.”

Leonard J. Ledger, Python Programming for Beginners: The Ultimate Crash Course to Learn Python Coding Quickly and Easily

Check out Python Programming for Beginners: The Ultimate Crash Course to Learn Python Coding Quickly and Easily on Amazon; click here.

22. Data Analytics for Absolute Beginners: A Deconstructed Guide to Data Literacy: Python for Data Science by Oliver Theobald, Scott Morgan, et al. 

Data Analytics for Absolute Beginners: A Deconstructed Guide to Data Literacy: Python for Data Science is an excellent option for those interested in utilizing Python to manage complex data sets. This text teaches you the vocabulary, algorithms, and tools needed to boost your understanding of your data. You’ll get to use several real-world examples to help you feel comfortable using your new skills, including natural language processing, association analysis, clustering, classification, and regression analysis. If you’re working to get into database management, Theobald’s texts (including those we mentioned on this list) will be valuable to your bookshelf.

“Whether you choose to scrape the Internet for alternative data or extract data directly from your customers, it’s crucial to operate in compliance with contemporary data laws. As noted in Data Leverage: Unlocking the Surprising Growth of Data Partnerships authored by brothers Christian and James Ward, ‘for many, data assets are an afterthought to normal business operations’ and compliance is commonly overlooked.”

Oliver Theobald, Data Analytics for Absolute Beginners: A Deconstructed Guide to Data Literacy: Python for Data Science

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Looking for more? Check out our round-up of essays about computers!