If you know a little Python, I recommend the Python Cookbook by Alex Martelli http://www.amazon.com/Python-Cookbook-Alex-Martelli/dp/05960... It is completely different from other types of books which are either references or tutorials which build some kind of project. It has hundreds of little recipes with discussions. The book is very readable and very useful, starting with simple functions, ending up with some pretty hairy stuff. 5 stars.