This unusual title intends to introduce programming “to readers with a background in the arts and humanities.” It is based on Python and Processing free distributions.

After some introductory conceptual writing, along with all-too-brief instructions for base platform installation, chapter 1 jumps right into “modifying a program,” followed by brief chapters on “calculating,” “double double” (functions), “programming fundamentals,” and “standard starting points” (Hello World, temperature conversion, brief object orientation, and more).

Processing of text strings takes three chapters (6, 7, and 10), while very basic image manipulation is discussed in chapters 8 and 9. Animation is covered in chapter 12. Statistics and visualization are skipped over briefly in chapter 11. Sound processing is allegedly discussed in chapter 13, but this only turns out to be an introduction to the bytebeat system and approach, an unfortunate choice. Interaction with keypresses is covered in chapter 14, closed out by “onward” at page 263.

Two appendices close out the text. The first is a stimulating discussion of the benefit to cognitive thought from learning to program and the cultural insights derived thereof. The second short appendix gives outlines for using the book to structure courses and workshops.

I wanted to like this book much more than I actually did. It is exceptionally well written, literate, and thoughtful. However, I question the match with its stated target. It falls woefully short as an introduction to practical programming techniques; many other titles would be better (for example, [1]). For those desiring to usefully manipulate images, sound, or text, it will be very frustrating. However, for others who wish to ruminate on what mental flexibility might be derived from coding, it might be stimulating. The index and related references are up to date and interesting.

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