The Python Handbook

The Python Handbook follows the 80/20 rule: learn 80% of the topic in 20% of the time.
I find this approach gives a well-rounded overview.
This book does not try to cover everything under the sun related to Python. It focuses on the core of the language, trying to simplify the more complex topics.
I hope the contents of this book will help you achieve what you want: learn the basics of Python.
This book is written by Flavio. I publish web development tutorials every day on my website flaviocopes.com.
You can reach me on Twitter @flaviocopes. Enjoy!