Guide

The Best Python Books for Beginners in 2023

By Liz Eggleston
Last updated on December 29, 2022

Ready to learn Python? Python is a powerful, open-source, multi-paradigm programming language used to build websites, access databases, and build software and games. We've asked bootcamp instructors and career changers which books they love to read and recommend. Check out one of these top 11 recommended Python books and get to work!

1. Head First Python

Author: Paul Barry

2. Core Python

Author: Wesley Chun

3. Data Structures and Algorithms in Python

Authors: Michael T. Goodrich, Roberto Tamassia, Michael H. Goldwasser, 2013

4. Python Algorithms

Author: Magnus Lie Hetland

5. Foundations of Network Programming in Python

Authors: John Goerzen, Brandon Rhodes

6. Python for Software Design: How to Think like a Computer Scientist

Author: Allen B. Downey

7. Learning Python

Author: Mark Lutz

8. Programming in Python 3: A Complete Introduction to the Python Language

Author: Mark Summerfield

9. Dive into Python 

Author: Mark Pilgrim

10. Python Cookbook

Author: Alex Martelli

11. Think Python: How to Think Like a Computer Scientist

A free book recommended by Meggie from Hackbright Academy!

Looking for courses in Python? Do a quick search on Course Report to start your research!

About The Author

Liz is the cofounder of Course Report, the most complete resource for students researching coding bootcamps. Her research has been cited in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, TechCrunch, and more. She loves breakfast tacos and spending time getting to know bootcamp alumni and founders all over the world. Check out Liz & Course Report on Twitter, Quora, and YouTube!

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