This tutorial and language reference shows how to develop in the cross-platform language Python, using procedural and object-oriented programming paradigms. The first chapter is designed to allow readers to begin writing small but useful Python programs right away, with coverage of eight key elements of Python. Advanced topics covered include client/server applications and database programming. In addition to computing professionals, the book will interest hobbyist programmers, students, scientists, and engineers. Readers should have some experience programming in any language; some exercises assume a basic knowledge of HTML markup. Downloadable code--compatible with the final version of Python 3 on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X--is available on a companion web site. Summerfield is a trainer and consultant. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)