Hey everyone! I recently bought the SCIP book but opted for the JavaScript version. I don't have anything against Scheme, but I'm heading into a class that focuses heavily on JavaScript later on. Right now, though, I'm taking a class that's adapted from the SCIP book but uses Python. I didn't plan on taking this class, but it just happened.
For those who have read both the JavaScript and Scheme versions, is there a big difference? I know there's an online version of both books, but I bought a physical copy of the JavaScript one, and it wasn't cheap since I had to import it to Mexico. I'm a bit stubborn about it—I really want to read it from cover to cover and don't want to feel like I made a mistake choosing the JavaScript version instead of the more popular Scheme edition. Any advice would be appreciated!
7 Answers
I’ve only read the original, but I find the Scheme syntax kinda annoying with all those parentheses! The JavaScript version probably makes it way easier to get concepts across—definitely a plus!
I’ve got both versions! When I hit a snag in the Scheme book, I just check the JavaScript version, and that usually clears things up. They’re pretty similar overall, just different in terms of coding syntax and examples.
If you want to compare, check out the comparative edition online. Most of the text is the same with minor changes, and while the syntax differs, the core concepts are pretty aligned between the two. You'll be fine sticking with JavaScript!
SICP isn’t just about languages; it’s about programming concepts! Focus on learning those, not so much on the language specifics. If you get too caught up in the language, you miss the book’s main point.
Honestly, it doesn’t really matter which version you have. The main goal is to grasp the concepts that apply across programming languages. You're gonna get the same fundamental ideas either way!
Is there a Python version of this book somewhere? I’d love to check it out!
It's not a standalone book; it’s actually a course at my uni, adapting topics from SCIP with specific exercises and exams. The materials are hosted on our uni’s website, so it's not something I can share.
Yeah, it’s called "Composing Programs." Here's the official site: https://www.composingprograms.com/. Just a heads up, it’s not the exact book OP mentioned, but might be useful.