The best 18 Computer Science books

How do we create content on this page?
1
Computer Science Books: Clean Architecture by Robert C. Martin

Clean Architecture

Robert C. Martin

What's Clean Architecture about?

Clean Architecture by Robert C. Martin is a must-read for software developers and architects. It delves into the principles and practices of creating clean, maintainable, and scalable software architecture. With real-world examples and practical advice, the book guides readers in designing systems that are flexible and easy to understand, making it an invaluable resource for anyone involved in software development.

Who should read Clean Architecture?

  • Software developers and architects looking to improve their understanding of clean and maintainable architecture

  • Tech leads and engineering managers seeking to create scalable and sustainable software systems

  • Professionals interested in learning best practices for designing and organizing software projects


What's The Linux Programming Interface about?

The Linux Programming Interface by Michael Kerrisk is a comprehensive guide to the Linux system programming interface. It covers a wide range of topics including file I/O, processes, memory allocation, system calls, and more. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced programmer, this book provides in-depth explanations and practical examples to help you master Linux programming.

Who should read The Linux Programming Interface?

  • Experienced programmers who want to deepen their understanding of the Linux programming interface

  • Software developers looking to build high-performance and efficient applications on Linux

  • System administrators who want to automate tasks and create custom tools using shell scripting and system programming


3
Computer Science Books: Pro Git by Scott Chacon

Pro Git

Scott Chacon

What's Pro Git about?

Pro Git by Scott Chacon is a comprehensive guide to the Git version control system. It covers everything from the basics of Git to advanced topics such as branching and merging, rebasing, and more. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced developer, this book will help you understand and master Git.

Who should read Pro Git?

  • Developers and programmers who want to improve their understanding and usage of Git

  • Individuals and teams working on software projects that require version control

  • Professionals looking to streamline their workflow and collaboration with others using Git


What's Building Microservices about?

Building Microservices by Sam Newman is a comprehensive guide that explores the principles and best practices for designing, building, and deploying microservice-based applications. It covers topics such as communication between services, data management, testing, and monitoring, providing valuable insights for developers and architects looking to embrace this architectural style.

Who should read Building Microservices?

  • Software developers and architects seeking to understand microservices
  • Technology leaders looking to implement microservice architectures in their organizations
  • Teams working on transitioning from monolithic to microservice-based systems

What's Designing Data-Intensive Applications about?

Designing Data-Intensive Applications by Martin Kleppmann delves into the world of data systems and explores the principles, techniques, and best practices for building scalable and reliable applications. From databases and data storage to data processing and messaging systems, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and trade-offs involved in designing data-intensive applications. Whether you're a software engineer, data architect, or anyone working with data, this book offers valuable insights to help you make informed decisions and tackle real-world problems.

Who should read Designing Data-Intensive Applications?

  • Software engineers and architects who want to deepen their understanding of data-intensive applications

  • Developers who are building or maintaining systems that handle large volumes of data

  • Technical leaders who need to make informed decisions about technology choices for their projects


6
Computer Science Books: Hackers & Painters by Paul Graham

Hackers & Painters

Paul Graham

What's Hackers & Painters about?

Hackers & Painters explores the world of computer programming and its impact on our society. Paul Graham discusses the similarities between hackers and painters, highlighting the creative and problem-solving aspects of both fields. He also delves into the history of programming, the importance of simplicity in design, and the potential for technology to shape our future.

Who should read Hackers & Painters?

  • Individuals with an interest in technology and programming

  • Entrepreneurs looking to understand the intersection of art and technology

  • Creative thinkers who want to explore unconventional approaches to problem-solving


7
Computer Science Books: Release It! by Michael T. Nygard

Release It!

Michael T. Nygard

What's Release It! about?

Release It! by Michael T. Nygard is a must-read for anyone working in software development or operations. It offers valuable insights and practical advice on designing and deploying resilient, scalable, and maintainable software systems. Through real-world examples and case studies, Nygard highlights common pitfalls and best practices, ultimately guiding readers towards building more robust and reliable applications.

Who should read Release It!?

  • Software developers who want to create resilient and reliable systems
  • DevOps engineers striving to improve the stability of their deployments
  • Technical leaders looking to minimize the impact of software failures on their business

8
Computer Science Books: Coders at Work by Peter Seibel

Coders at Work

Peter Seibel

What's Coders at Work about?

Coders at Work (2009) by Peter Seibel features in-depth interviews with fifteen notable computer programmers, offering insights into their career paths, code writing philosophies, and thoughts on the future of software development. The book provides a valuable glimpse into the minds of individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of coding.

Who should read Coders at Work?

  • Anyone aspiring to become a better software developer or engineer
  • Experienced coders looking for insights and wisdom from industry veterans
  • Individuals curious about the different approaches and mindsets of successful programmers

9
Computer Science Books: HTML and CSS by Jon Duckett

HTML and CSS

Jon Duckett

What's HTML and CSS about?

HTML and CSS by Jon Duckett is a beautifully designed book that introduces the key concepts of HTML and CSS in a visual and easy-to-understand format. With clear explanations and engaging illustrations, this book is perfect for beginners who want to learn how to create and style websites.

Who should read HTML and CSS?

  • Individuals who want to learn the basics of web development

  • Beginners who are interested in creating their own websites

  • Students or professionals looking to enhance their digital skills


What's Explain the Cloud Like I'm 10 about?

Explain the Cloud Like I'm 10 by Todd Hoff is a fun and informative book that breaks down the complex concept of cloud computing in a way that kids can understand. Through simple language and colorful illustrations, the book explores what the cloud is, how it works, and its real-world applications. It's a great introduction for young readers (and even adults) who want to learn about this fascinating technology.

Who should read Explain the Cloud Like I'm 10?

  • Anyone curious about the cloud and how it works

  • Individuals who want to understand cloud computing in a simple and accessible way

  • Parents or educators looking for a resource to explain the cloud to children


11
Computer Science Books: Computer Networks by Andrew S. Tanenbaum

Computer Networks

Andrew S. Tanenbaum

What's Computer Networks about?

Computer Networks by Andrew S. Tanenbaum provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of computer networking. It covers the fundamental concepts and principles of networking, including the different types of networks, network protocols, and network architecture. The book also delves into more advanced topics such as network security and wireless networking. With clear explanations and real-world examples, it is a valuable resource for students and professionals alike.

Who should read Computer Networks?

  • Students studying computer science or networking

  • Professionals working in the field of IT or network administration

  • Anyone interested in understanding the fundamentals of how computer networks operate


12
Computer Science Books: Effective Modern C++ by Scott Meyers

Effective Modern C++

Scott Meyers

What's Effective Modern C++ about?

Effective Modern C++ by Scott Meyers is a comprehensive guide to using C++11 and C++14 effectively. It covers a wide range of topics including type deduction, smart pointers, move semantics, and concurrency support. The book provides practical advice and real-world examples to help C++ developers write cleaner, safer, and more efficient code in the modern C++ era.

Who should read Effective Modern C++?

  • Software developers and engineers looking to upgrade their C++ skills to the modern standards

  • Professionals who want to write efficient, maintainable, and portable code using C++11 and C++14

  • Readers who appreciate practical examples and real-world insights to improve their programming practices


What's Growing Object-Oriented Software, Guided by Tests about?

Growing Object-Oriented Software, Guided by Tests (2009) by Steve Freeman and Nat Pryce is a comprehensive guide to test-driven development (TDD) and its application in building robust, maintainable software. Through practical examples and insightful explanations, the book demonstrates how TDD can drive the design and development of object-oriented systems, leading to higher quality code and faster delivery.

Who should read Growing Object-Oriented Software, Guided by Tests?

  • Software developers looking to improve their object-oriented programming skills
  • Teams interested in incorporating test-driven development (TDD) into their workflow
  • Professionals who want to understand how to grow and evolve software systems through effective testing

What's Introduction to the Theory of Computation about?

Introduction to the Theory of Computation by Michael Sipser provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of theoretical computer science. It covers topics such as automata theory, formal languages, computability, and complexity theory, offering clear explanations and examples. Whether you're a student or professional in the field, this book is a valuable resource for understanding the fundamental concepts of computation.

Who should read Introduction to the Theory of Computation?

  • Computer science students looking to gain a solid understanding of the theoretical foundations of computation

  • Professionals in the tech industry who want to deepen their knowledge of algorithms, automata, and formal languages

  • Anyone interested in exploring the abstract concepts that underpin modern computing systems


What's Advanced Programming in the UNIX Environment about?

Advanced Programming in the UNIX Environment by W. Richard Stevens is a comprehensive guide for experienced programmers looking to deepen their understanding of UNIX programming. It covers topics such as file I/O, system calls, processes, signals, and interprocess communication, providing detailed explanations and code examples. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to master UNIX system programming.

Who should read Advanced Programming in the UNIX Environment?

  • Experienced programmers who want to deepen their understanding of UNIX systems

  • Software engineers working on UNIX-based applications

  • System administrators looking to improve their scripting and automation skills


16
Computer Science Books: Don't Make Me Think by Steve Krug

What's Don't Make Me Think about?

Don't Make Me Think by Steve Krug is a practical guide to web usability. With a focus on user experience, the book provides valuable insights and tips for creating intuitive and easy-to-navigate websites. Krug's witty writing style and real-world examples make this a must-read for anyone involved in web design and development.

Who should read Don't Make Me Think?

  • Web designers and developers looking to improve the usability of their websites

  • Business owners and marketers who want to understand how users interact with their online platforms

  • Anyone interested in the principles of intuitive navigation and user-friendly design


17
Computer Science Books: Types and Programming Languages by Benjamin C. Pierce

What's Types and Programming Languages about?

Types and Programming Languages by Benjamin C. Pierce is a comprehensive exploration of the fundamental concepts and principles behind programming languages and their type systems. It delves into the theory of types, their role in programming language design, and how they contribute to the safety and reliability of software. The book also covers a wide range of programming paradigms and languages, making it an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the core principles of programming.

Who should read Types and Programming Languages?

  • Computer science students and professionals looking to deepen their understanding of programming languages and type systems

  • Software developers and language designers interested in creating more robust and expressive programming languages

  • Academics and researchers in the field of programming language theory and formal methods


18
Computer Science Books: Fluent Python by Luciano Ramalho

Fluent Python

Luciano Ramalho

What's Fluent Python about?

Fluent Python by Luciano Ramalho is a comprehensive guide that delves deep into the intricacies of the Python programming language. It goes beyond the basics and explores advanced topics such as data structures, object-oriented programming, and concurrency. By providing clear explanations and practical examples, the book helps readers become proficient in writing Pythonic code and understanding the language's unique features.

Who should read Fluent Python?

  • Python developers who want to deepen their understanding of the language and its features

  • Programmers looking to write more efficient, readable, and idiomatic Python code

  • Individuals interested in exploring advanced topics such as metaprogramming and concurrency in Python


Related Topics

Computer Science Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Computer Science book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Clean Architecture as the ultimate read on Computer Science.

What are the Top 10 Computer Science books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Clean Architecture by Robert C. Martin
  • The Linux Programming Interface by Michael Kerrisk
  • Pro Git by Scott Chacon
  • Building Microservices by Sam Newman
  • Designing Data-Intensive Applications by Martin Kleppmann
  • Hackers & Painters by Paul Graham
  • Release It! by Michael T. Nygard
  • Coders at Work by Peter Seibel
  • HTML and CSS by Jon Duckett
  • Explain the Cloud Like I'm 10 by Todd Hoff

Who are the top Computer Science book authors?

When it comes to Computer Science, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Robert C. Martin
  • Michael Kerrisk
  • Scott Chacon
  • Sam Newman
  • Martin Kleppmann