Python and Tkinter Programming

Python and Tkinter Programming, John E. Grayson, Manning Publications, 2000, 658 pages.

OK. Perhaps every book reviewer comes up against one book that is simply over his head. Or perhaps its only me. I can tell that this book is a beautifully published, well written book that contains more detailed information on Tkinter than any book on the planet. The book is praised most highly by many people much smarter than I am. But for whatever reason, I just can't get into this book. Maybe with time.

Since I can't yet do this book justice, I refuse to be dishonest and pretend to "review" it. It is obviously a thorough book by a master in his field. My impression is that it is best for those who are seriously into graphical user interface design. Which is not me.

Suffice it to say, that the book gives a more exhaustive summary of each and every Tkinter widget than any other book. It also covers the PMW megawidgets in the same detail. The book also goes into great detail on the use of these widgets in event driven programming, as well as practical advice on programming style, philosophy and technique.

No less an authority than Guido van Rossum himself has stated that the book is "packed with well explained examples that teach good Python habits." What or who am I, in the face of this? Keep in mind that GUI programming is my weakest link; I am primarily a command line hacker.

So, I recommend this book for those who are into Tkinter programming, on the authority of others, with the caveat that I don't know what I am talking about . ;-))))