I suppose there's no reason to keep this 'secret': I've been talking
to O'Reilly about doing a Python book for 6 months. They're still very
interested in the proposal, but the project is currently "on hold",
until they can free up an editor from other projects.
We've worked out a structure/approach that would make for a great book,
and some parts have already been written. But I don't want to say much
more until someone puts a contract in my hand. It may be a few months
before I have any more solid news to report. Guido also has plans for
a book (see the FAQ), and ideally, his should come out first.
And yes, the obvious choice for a cover design would involve a reptile
(an open can-of-spam might work too, but... :-).
Mark L.