For Beginners
If you’re new to the world of programming and don’t have a basic understanding of how to write code and how it works, you may need an additional book alongside a book on a specific programming language. A supplementary book will help you understand the core functionality of each concept and how it is supposed to work.
An additional book isn’t essential if you already know a bit about coding, but it’s strongly recommended for beginners.
“Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs,” by Harold Abelson and Gerald Jay Sussman
This book is widely known by its abbreviation, “SICP.” It covers all the fundamentals of programming. Thanks to this book, you’ll be able to connect what you know about programming to any programming language.
This book is also very important for computer science students. There’s a reason the world’s best engineering institute, MIT, uses it in its programming courses.
You’ll need to learn how to use this book alongside books on specific programming languages. MIT also has a YouTube channel where it covers many programming topics. You can find video lectures there covering the book’s subject matter if you find this part a little difficult to understand.
Books for Python
Python is the most popular programming language of 2019-2021, and it seems to have a bright future with lots of new opportunities for developers. Its community and popularity are growing exponentially and getting bigger and bigger.
Python’s main advantage, setting it apart from other programming languages, is its simple syntax, which makes programming easier. For a beginner, Python is the perfect programming language.
1. “Python Crash Course: A Hands-On, Project-Based Introduction to Programming,” by Eric Matthes
A book strongly recommended for every beginner. Why is this book so popular with beginners? It includes lots of projects that will help you develop your Python programming skills.
Thanks to this book, you won’t lose interest in learning Python.
Along with its interesting projects, this book has one limitation: it doesn’t cover every topic. It covers a lot for a beginner, but if you’re an intermediate learner or want to improve your Python skills, this book isn’t for you.
2. “Learning Python,” by Mark Lutz
This is the complete opposite of the first book. You won’t find nearly as many topic-based projects here; instead, you’ll learn about every topic in detail.
You may find this book uninteresting because it discusses every topic in detail, but it’s strongly recommended for intermediate learners who want to learn more about Python. However, if you’re a beginner and don’t want to miss any topic related to basic Python, this book is for you.
3. “Fluent Python,” by Luciano Ramalho
For intermediate and advanced learners. Once you’ve finished the first and second books on this list, you can choose this one to strengthen your Python skills and learn some new topics.
Books on Java Programming
Java is a powerful and widely used programming language. It has a wide range of applications, from software development to web development. Java is everywhere. We all know that Android, one of the best-known operating systems for mobile devices, uses Java to build its applications. Although many people think Java is a sinking ship, new developers are choosing Java to build careers in the industry.
1. “Core Java, Volume 1: Fundamentals,” by Cay Horstmann
This book covers all the basics of Java, with clear examples. All the examples in the book will help you get to grips with each topic. In addition to core Java, this book also develops your skills in building user interface applications.
2. “Core Java, Volume 2: Fundamentals,” by Cay Horstmann
If you want to learn how to build robust applications and real-world software with Java, this book is for you. The author discusses all the core libraries in detail, with relevant examples.
3. “Effective Java,” by Joshua Bloch
Make sure you buy the latest edition of the book. In the new edition of “Effective Java,” you’ll get an in-depth look at all the Java fundamentals and best-practice patterns, so you can practice everything you’ve already learned and improve your programming skills.