The Best Python Books for Beginners in 2025

Table of Contents

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• 1. Head First Python
• 2. Core Python
• 3. Data Structures and Algorithms in Python
• 4. Python Algorithms
• 5. Foundations of Network Programming in Python
• 6. Python for Software Design: How to Think like a Computer Scientist
• 7. Learning Python
• 8. Programming in Python 3: A Complete Introduction to the Python Language
• 9. Dive into Python 
• 10. Python Cookbook
• 11. Think Python: How to Think Like a Computer Scientist

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!