You’ll be a step ahead if you only read one of the top programming books of the year. This is because, according to Steve McConnell (author of Code Compete), one book is better than most programmers each year. In 2008, this bold statement was made by Trello creator, blogger, software engineer, and author of Trello:
Programmers seem not to be interested in reading books. Programmers are not interested in books on programming topics. Instead, they program happily, using trial and error. They type in a question into Google if they are unable to figure it out.
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Although search engines and community forums such as Stack Overflow are essential, you won’t be able to gain the same depth of knowledge or perspective from them like you would from reading books.
Programming books that explain more than just how to code are the best. They teach you how to think, not just how to code in specific languages. They have stood the test of time, and will help you become better programmer no matter how long you’ve been in the industry.
These nine books are especially helpful if your goal is to join Coding Dojo’s coding bootcamps.
1. Coders at Work: Reflections On The Craft of Programming
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Coders at Work is the book to read if you are interested in learning more about programming. It features 15 interviews with computer scientists and programmers, including Joshua Bloch and Donald Knuth, Jamie Zawinski, Ken Thomson, Ken Thomson, Ken Thomson, Jamie Zawinski, and Donald Knuth. Peter Seibel, a programmer turned author, asked interviewees to talk about their favorite projects and the inspiring stories behind them. Coders at Work offers a glimpse into the minds and motivations of some of the most renowned programmers.
2. Code Complete: A Practical Handbook of Software Construction
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Code Complete by Steve McConnell is considered the encyclopedia for practical coding. It is a must-read for all professional programmers. It’s easy for anyone to understand why. Although Code Complete is a large volume of literature (900 pages), each chapter is filled with useful tips and techniques that will improve your programming and make it easier to read and manage. McConnell’s ability to present his material in a story format makes it easy to read, and even entertaining. Code Compete will change the way that you think about code, no matter your level.
TIP: The last three chapters serve as a guide and are a good place to start if you don’t have the time. You can then read the chapters you are interested in. The Kindle edition is not recommended. Instead, opt for the printed copy. Chapters are easier to refer to.
3. The Month of the Mythical Man
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This book’s premise is that computers can change, but people cannot. The Mythical Month is a programming classic that discusses human aspects of software engineering. The book, which was first published in 1975, was published 30 years ago. It has stood the test of the time. Why? Because building things, including software has been as much about people than it has about technology or materials.
This book will help you to understand the pitfalls of software development and give you practical advice on managing teams.
4. Revisited: A Common Sense Approach To Web Usability
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This book is the best on usability. Any web developer who wants to create mobile websites or apps that are easier to use will find Don’t Make me Think a great resource. The book is full of useful information that can be understood by both technical as well as non-technical users.
5. The Pragmatic Programmer: From Journeyman To Master
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Another goodie that has stood the test of time. The Pragmatic Programer is a collection that contains lessons and recommendations for software programmers. A set of numbered tips (about 70) are included in the book. They can be accessed on a single tear-out card located at the back of the book. Although the tips may seem obvious, they have some surprising dimensions that will enhance your programming skills and help you to improve your craft.
6. Clean Code: A Handbook of Agile Software Craftsmanship
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Poorly written code can bring down a project.
