 Description
Python and XML shows how to program XML applications using Python, an increasingly popular scripting language. The authors aim to introduce XML, but some knowledge of Python is assumed. They make a strong case for Python as a natural partner to XML, being cross-platform, object-oriented, easy to use, and with strong text handling features. In any case, the prevalence of XML means that most Python developers will have to tackle it sooner or later.
Together with the Python standard library, the book makes use of PyXML,
which greatly extends Python's XML features, and another library called
4Suite. It also demonstrates how to use Microsoft's MSXML parser with
Python, when running on Windows.
Starting with an introductory
overview, the book goes on to explain XML fundamentals. Next there is a
guide to parsing XML, first with SAX and then with the DOM (Document
Object Model). XPath queries get a short chapter, followed by a look at
XSLT transformations. After that comes validation against DTD's
(Document Type Definitions), sending and receiving XML over the
Internet, and Python Web Services. Finally, a detailed example explains
how to use Python in a distributed XML application.
Both authors
are professional Python developers and their book successfully covers
the essentials. However, they do a poor job of explaining XML itself
and newcomers will want something like XML in a Nutshell alongside this
title. With lots of commented code examples, Python and XML has a
hands-on feel, making it a sound and practical guide. --Tim Anderson
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