December 2023 MBR The Computer Shelf

The Computer Shelf

Practical Julia
Lee Phillips
No Starch Press
www.nostarch.com
9781718502765, $59.99, PB, 528pp

https://www.amazon.com/Practical-Julia-Lee-Phillips/dp/1718502761

Synopsis: Julia is a computer programming language that is currently acclaimed in scientific circles for its unparalleled ease, interactivity, and speed. "Practical Julia: A Hands-On Introduction for Scientific Minds" by Lee Phillips is a comprehensive introduction to the language, making it accessible even if you're new to programming.

Dive in with a thorough guide to Julia's syntax, data types, and best practices, then transition to craft solutions for challenges in physics, statistics, biology, mathematics, scientific machine learning, and more. Whether you are solving computational problems, visualizing data, writing simulations, or developing specialized tools, With the publication of "Practical Julia", Phillips will show you how to:

Use comprehensions and generators, higher-level functions, array initialization and manipulation, and perform operations on Unicode text

Create new syntax and generate code with metaprogramming and macros, and control the error system to manipulate program execution

Visualize everything from mathematical constructs and experimental designs to algorithm flowcharts

Elevate performance using Julia's unique type system with multiple dispatch

Delve into scientific packages tailored for diverse fields like fluid dynamics, agent-based modeling, and image processing

Whether your interest is in scientific research, statistics, mathematics, or just the fun of programming with Julia, "Practical Julia: will have you writing high-performance code that can do real work in no time.

Critique: Impressively comprehensive, exceptionally well written, thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "Practical Julia: A Hands-On Introduction for Scientific Minds" is a complete course of DIY instruction for any programmer who is aspiring to take full advantage of Julia in developing algorithms. While especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, and college/university library Computer Programming Language collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists, it should be noted that this edition of "Practical Julia: A Hands-On Introduction for Scientific Minds" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $35.99).

Editorial Note: Lee Phillips was a theoretical and computational physicist at the Naval Research Laboratory for 21 years. He has presented his research in numerous scientific papers and international conferences. He has also written many popular articles on science and its history, and on the use of computers in research. He's involved with science education and outreach, including serving on the Board of Directors of the Friends of Arlington's Planetarium and maintaining their website.

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