Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 5 Up-Coding is a current buzzword in schools, and the text-based coding language Python is an engaging next step for readers who have mastered Scratch (or choose to tackle Python on its own). Named by creator Guido Van Rossum as a tribute to Monty Python, the language allows users (suggested for ages 10 and up) to string together English words, punctuation, numbers, and symbols to devise games, visual tricks, and coding projects. Like other coding languages, Python introduces concepts such as naming nomenclature, variables, text strings, and decision trees. Conditionals, loops, functions, modules, and nested constructions allow for more sophisticated creation. Line-by-line instructions detail how to create an animated quiz, a password picker, a screen pet, and more. The directions are bright and clearly illustrated, and boxy, bitmapped humans in many styles and colors encourage readers and clarify concepts. Troubleshooting and "bug busting" are discussed. Readers with some familiarity with (or sincere interest in) computer language concepts will get the most out of this volume. VERDICT This informative title deserves a place in any library where patrons are interested in coding. Coders with some experience will enjoy the challenge of following from "First Steps" to "Hacks and Tweaks" and branching out to come up with original projects.-Maggie Knapp, Trinity Valley School, Fort Worth, TX © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
