Django for APIs

A paperback version of this course is available on Amazon!

Django for APIs is the fifth edition of the leading guide to building modern web APIs with Django & Django REST Framework. It is suitable for beginners who have never built an API before, as well as professional programmers looking for a fast-paced introduction to Django API fundamentals and best practices.

You'll learn how to set up a new project properly, create and customize RESTful APIs, integrate a Vue.js frontend, and more. Three separate projects are built from scratch with progressively more advanced features, including a Library API, Todo API, and Blog API. User authentication, tests, permissions, documentation, viewsets, and routers are all covered thoroughly.

Key Features

• Updated for Django 5.1 and Python 3.13
• Robust introduction to APIs and RESTful web development
• Build a dedicated Vue.js frontend connected to a Django API backend
• Write robust tests and implement custom permissions
• Implement user authentication: signup, login, logout, and password reset
• Work with viewsets, routers, and documentation

Reviews

“A fantastic introduction to Django REST Framework and APIs.”—CARLTON GIBSON, Django REST Framework co-maintainer

“Will's books are the first resource I recommend to my clients and anyone who wants to learn how to build REST APIs with Django.”—JEFF TRIPLETT, Django Board Member, former Python Software Foundation Director, and REVSYS Partner

"Django for APIs was my entrypoint into learning how to build APIs with Django. It takes you step-by-step through building multiple projects and explains how Django and Django REST Framework work seamlessly together." —Sarah Boyce, Django Fellow

“When readers interested in web development ask me what to read next after Python Crash Course, I refer them to Will's books: Django for Beginners, Django for APIs, and Django for Professionals. I highly recommend you check out his work.”—ERIC MATTHES, author of Python Crash Course