Python Playground: Geeky Projects for the Curious Programmer

by Mahesh Venkitachalam

Python is a powerful programming language that’s easy to learn and fun to play with. But once you’ve gotten a handle on the basics, what do you do next?

Python Playground is a collection of imaginative programming projects that will inspire you to use Python to make art and music, build simulations of real-world phenomena, and interact with hardware like the Arduino and Raspberry Pi. You’ll learn to use common Python tools and libraries like numpy, matplotlib, and pygame to do things like:
–Generate Spirograph-like patterns using parametric equations and the turtle module
–Create music on your computer by simulating frequency overtones
–Translate graphical images into ASCII art
–Write an autostereogram program that produces 3D images hidden beneath random patterns
–Make realistic animations with OpenGL shaders by exploring particle systems, transparency, and billboarding techniques
–Construct 3D visualizations using data from CT and MRI scans
–Build a laser show that responds to music by hooking up your computer to an Arduino


Programming shouldn’t be a chore. Have some solid, geeky fun with Python Playground .

The projects in this book are compatible with both Python 2 and 3.

Genres: Programming, Reference, Computers, Technology, Coding, Nonfiction, Computer Science

352 pages, Paperback

First published February 25, 2015

Reviews

[Karthikeyan Chellappa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those rare programming books that is fun to read, and yet suited for the intermediate / advanced python programmer. I reckon even the novices should take a stab at this book, if anything to realize that the true power of Python is not just the simplicity and elegance of the language, but the vast array of open source packages that are available at your disposal to do just about anything, and this book does a great job at demonstrating that. From ASCII art & musical overtones to hardware hacking with Ardunio & Raspberry Pi, this book is enjoyable from start to finish.

[Ben · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing Around

This is a fantastic book on learning and enjoying Python programming.

I found that the author has a bunch of exciting and fun projects.

I even coded a few of the projects myself, and built on them to make them even better (or for my own uses)!

I highly recommend reading this book if you are interested in learning or getting more out of Python.

4.8/5

[Aileen · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wanted to like the book, but upon reviewing the code, it just seemed like it would be buggy and sloppy. Good idea. Hard pass.

[Taylan Ward · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think that this is a great book for coding and learning new things. I would recommend this to anyone who likes the Python coding language.

[Julio Biason · Rating 2 out of 5]

When I start to not get a book, one thing I ask myself is: Am I the target audience for this book? 'Cause, you know, I may need to reflect if the book is actually good for beginners instead of people who already know the topic.

And here is the problem with this book: it does a bad job finding its target.

The reason is simple: the code is full of violations of PEP8, something Python beginners should not be exposed to and something expert developers get pissed.

Now, there is nothing wrong with your weekend projects to not follow standards -- that's perfectly acceptable. But when you have your code published in a book, you must, at least, follow the general guidelines that the community follows.

But let's throw this out of the window: is the book "good"? The answer is mostly "well...". It's not bad, but it isn't really interesting. It is merely ok.

[WKofAngmar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book includes the best projects for a programming nerd like me.

[Mahesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am kind of partial to this book. :-)