Professional Python goes beyond the basics to teach beginner- and intermediate-level Python programmers the little-known tools and constructs that build concise, maintainable code. Design better architecture and write easy-to-understand code using highly...

Why is it so hard to make lasting changes in our companies, in our communities, and in our own lives?

The primary obstacle is a conflict that’s built into our brains, say Chip and Dan Heath, authors of the critically acclaimed bestseller Made to Stick. Psychologists have discovered that our minds are ruled...

As a prolific author, BBC commentator, and magazine editor, Nigel Calder has spent a lifetime spotting and explaining the big discoveries in all branches of science. In Magic Universe, he draws on his vast experience to offer readers a lively, far-reaching look at modern science in all its glory, shedding light on the latest ideas in...

Google SketchUp, the most popular architectural software package, is used by millions of architects and visualizers throughout the world. But what you may not know is that it's also the most powerful 3D design software on the market. With this book in hand and patented technology such as the PhotoMatch, Push-Pull, and Face-me components...

Continuing in the eighth edition, An Introduction to Database Systems provides a comprehensive introduction to the now very large field of database systems by providing a solid grounding in the foundations of database technology while shedding some light on how the field is likely to develop in the future. This new edition has been rewritten...

Literary Nonfiction. Asian & Asian American Studies. History. Since the concept of the Silk Road as an avenue of inter- civilizational exchange emerged more than 130 years ago, scholars from both Eastern and Western societies have conducted persistent research to advance the field. Still, however, not nearly enough research has been...

• Get to grips with Python techniques that address commonly encountered problems in general application development.
• Develop, package, and deploy efficient applications in a fun way.
• All-practical coverage of the major areas of application development, including best practices,...

This brilliantly illustrated book blends two unique subjects: character design and painting. It details how to put thoughts and ideas together to create characters that elicit specific emotions (joy, fear, anger, sadness, etc.), and it teaches how to beautifully render these characters by applying traditional painting skills with digital tools....