>>11
Let's assume I agree with you on the syntax point. What about the type checker issue? If I may quote every Haskell user with a blog
once I've battled with the type checker my program is usually correct.
Bullshit, I know. But if they don't have experience in programming then every inconvenience when it comes to producing runnable code matters.
I would also claim that lazy evaluation more difficult to build a mental model of, but SICP is fully functional for the beginning anyway (I'd assume HTDP is similar)
There is also the issue of reading a book in one language while trying to code in another. It can be both fun and educational, but not for a beginner. If you do want to use Haskell, why not use a different book?