[perturbation]

I'd recommend Elements of Statistical Learning or ISLR instead, if you want to start with a theory-heavy introduction. Most of what you need for DS you'd I think better learn through projects or on-the-job.

Also, as others have mentioned, some of the most important skills for DS are data munging, data "presentation", and soft skills like managing expectations / relationships / etc.

I would not recommend this book if you want to get into DS with the idea that, "I'll read this and then I'll know everything I need to." It's too dense and academically-focused, and it would probably be discouraging if you try to read this all without getting your feet wet.