Books by Mark Lutz

Get a comprehensive, in-depth introduction to the core Python language with this hands-on book. Based on author Mark Lutzs popular training course, this updated fifth edition will help you quickly write efficient, high-quality code with Python. Its an ideal way to begin, whether youre new to programming or a professional developer versed in other languages.Complete with quizzes, exercises, and helpful illustrations, this easy-to-follow, self-paced tutorial gets you started with both Python 2.7 and 3.3 the latest releases in the 3.X and 2.X linesplus all other releases in common use today. Youll also learn some advanced language features that recently have become more common in Python code.Explore Pythons major built-in object types such as numbers, lists, and dictionariesCreate and process objects with Python statements, and learn Pythons general syntax modelUse functions to avoid code redundancy and package code for reuseOrganize statements, functions, and other tools into larger components with modulesDive into classes: Pythons object-oriented programming tool for structuring codeWrite large programs with Pythons exception-handling model and development toolsLearn advanced Python tools, including decorators, descriptors, metaclasses, and Unicode processing

Updated for both Python 3.4 and 2.7, this convenient pocket guide is the perfect on-the-job quick reference. Youll find concise, need-to-know information on Python types and statements, special method names, built-in functions and exceptions, commonly used standard library modules, and other prominent Python tools. The handy index lets you pinpoint exactly what you need.Written by Mark Lutzwidely recognized as the worlds leading Python trainerPython Pocket Reference is an ideal companion to OReillys classic Python tutorials, Learning Python and Programming Python, also written by Mark.This fifth edition covers:Built-in object types, including numbers, lists, dictionaries, and moreStatements and syntax for creating and processing objectsFunctions and modules for structuring and reusing codePythons object-oriented programming toolsBuilt-in functions, exceptions, and attributesSpecial operator overloading methodsWidely used standard library modules and extensionsCommand-line options and development toolsPython idioms and hintsThe Python SQL Database API

Get the facilitation skills that will take you from being willing to truly capable to lead safe and effective small groups.While Small Groups are incredibly effective in theory, oftentimes, ineffective leadership can cause these groups to falter. Author Mark Lutz has over twenty-two years of experience in successfully leading, supervising, and coaching thriving Small Groups. With a focus on skill acquisition, Mark will help bring out the qualities that make a successful leader, including active listening, asking good questions, and setting reasonable boundaries, among many others. Unleashing the Power of Small Groups: Essential Group Facilitation is the ultimate guide to creating and maintaining a positive Small Group experience. Mark Lutz prepared for the ministry at Cincinnati Christian University and studied counseling at Xavier University in Ohio. He has served for more than twenty years as the pastor of growth & healing at Vineyard Cincinnati Church. In that time he has overseen the recruitment, equipping, and supervision of a volunteer staff that provides nearly seventy support and recovery groups and countless hours of pastoral care to individuals annually.