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CPython Explained: Your Guide to the Internals of CPython
Gain deep expertise in Python's internal architecture and unlock the ability to optimize, debug, and extend Python at its core. Discover how to navigate CPython's 400,000+ lines of C code with confidence, from downloading and compiling the source to implementing your own bytecode instructions and custom types.
You'll work with the fundamental structures that power every Python program, including PyObject hierarchies, memory management through PyMalloc, and the intricate workings of Python's garbage collector. Learn to trace how your Python code transforms from source to bytecode, then executes within the virtual machine's evaluation loop. You'll explore the implementation of core data types such as lists, dictionaries, and strings, understanding why they perform as they do and how to leverage this knowledge for optimization.
Through practical examples, you'll build custom C extension types, modify the Python REPL, and create custom bytecode instructions. You'll uncover the secrets behind Python's import system, exception handling, and advanced features such as generators, descriptors, and metaclasses. Each chapter combines theoretical understanding with hands-on implementation, ensuring you can apply your knowledge immediately.
Whether you're tracking down performance bottlenecks, developing high-performance extensions, or simply satisfying your curiosity about how Python really works, you'll gain the expertise to work confidently at Python's lowest levels.
What You Will Learn
Download, compile, and modify CPython's source code with confidenceExplore fundamental structures such as PyObject, PyTypeObject, and memory management systemsImplement custom C extension types and bytecode instructions from scratchTrace code execution from Python source through bytecode to machine operationsDebug memory leaks and optimize performance using CPython's internal toolsBuild custom collection types and integrate them with Python's protocols
Who This Book Is For
Python programmers with 5+ years of experience who want to understand Python's internal implementation and C-based architecture. Software professionals interested in performance optimization, debugging complex issues, or developing high-performance Python extensions.
You'll work with the fundamental structures that power every Python program, including PyObject hierarchies, memory management through PyMalloc, and the intricate workings of Python's garbage collector. Learn to trace how your Python code transforms from source to bytecode, then executes within the virtual machine's evaluation loop. You'll explore the implementation of core data types such as lists, dictionaries, and strings, understanding why they perform as they do and how to leverage this knowledge for optimization.
Through practical examples, you'll build custom C extension types, modify the Python REPL, and create custom bytecode instructions. You'll uncover the secrets behind Python's import system, exception handling, and advanced features such as generators, descriptors, and metaclasses. Each chapter combines theoretical understanding with hands-on implementation, ensuring you can apply your knowledge immediately.
Whether you're tracking down performance bottlenecks, developing high-performance extensions, or simply satisfying your curiosity about how Python really works, you'll gain the expertise to work confidently at Python's lowest levels.
What You Will Learn
Download, compile, and modify CPython's source code with confidenceExplore fundamental structures such as PyObject, PyTypeObject, and memory management systemsImplement custom C extension types and bytecode instructions from scratchTrace code execution from Python source through bytecode to machine operationsDebug memory leaks and optimize performance using CPython's internal toolsBuild custom collection types and integrate them with Python's protocols
Who This Book Is For
Python programmers with 5+ years of experience who want to understand Python's internal implementation and C-based architecture. Software professionals interested in performance optimization, debugging complex issues, or developing high-performance Python extensions.
640 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 18, 2025
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