Book Review: IronPython in Action

IronPython in Action (IPIA) gets the distinction of being the first book published on IronPython. As the first book, it has the responsibility of giving developers their first impression of IronPython. IPIA does exactly that by taking numerous shallow dives into various technologies and techniques. To be clear, this book is aimed at professional developers preferably with either .NET or Python experience. Pythonistas will find the book offers quick introductions to a number of Microsoft technologies such as Windows Forms, WPF and ASP.NET. .NET developers will get the chance to see technologies they’re already familiar with expressed in a completely new fashion.

IPIA avoids the trap of simply being a brochure of Microsoft technologies using “IronPython” in place of “C#” and “VB.NET”. Instead, the authors mix in chapters on development techniques ranging from the familiar - such as unit testing and mocking – to the more exotic such as metaprogramming. As .NET developers wind their way through the book, they’ll begin to appreciate the differences between the static and dynamic worlds – a crucial step toward wide ranging acceptance.

If you’re curious about what IronPython can do for you, IronPython in Action is well worth your time.