Learning as a total beginner

What would be the best choice for a total beginner?:

- Learn Python the hard way
- Dive into Python
- How to Think Like a Computer Scientist Learning with Python

I chosed "Learn Python the hard way", right now I'm on exercise 15 and it's getting harder to understand. Advices?

learn python 3

it is a vast improvement and offers unique features not seen in any other language such as closures and strong fp support. it is also extremely performant so you will never have to dig into writing c for parts of your program