From what I remember there's a heavy xml processing bias, the python isn't that idiomatic (partially due to new features being introduced since its publishing date) and the libraries used for particular tasks aren't the best. Most of its problems stem from it being dated. I think Mark Pilgrim is a good author and teacher though, and even now this might make up for its faults to a degree.

Read

    Dive Into Python Must Die
    http://oppugn.us/posts/1272050135.html

I pretty much agree with that. I bought the book and found it quite off-putting and though it was just me.