The best 32 Linux books

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1
Linux Books: Autotools by John Calcote

Autotools

John Calcote

What's Autotools about?

Autotools by John Calcote is a comprehensive guide to the GNU build system. It provides a detailed explanation of tools like Autoconf, Automake, and Libtool, and offers practical examples to help developers understand and effectively use these tools in their projects. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced developer, this book will help you streamline the build process and create portable software.

Who should read Autotools?

  • Software developers who want to learn how to use the GNU Autotools for building and packaging their projects

  • Open source contributors who need to understand and work with existing Autotools-based projects

  • System administrators who want to customize and maintain software installations using Autotools


2
Linux Books: Command Line Kung Fu by Jason Cannon

Command Line Kung Fu

Jason Cannon

What's Command Line Kung Fu about?

Command Line Kung Fu by Jason Cannon is a comprehensive guide to mastering the command line. It provides practical tips, tricks, and techniques for navigating and manipulating the command line in Linux and Unix-based systems. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this book will help you become more efficient and productive in the command line environment.

Who should read Command Line Kung Fu?

  • Individuals who want to improve their command line skills and become more efficient at using the terminal

  • Professionals working in IT, software development, or system administration

  • Students or beginners looking to learn the fundamentals of using the command line interface


What's A Practical Guide to Linux Commands, Editors, and Shell Programming about?

A Practical Guide to Linux Commands, Editors, and Shell Programming by Mark G. Sobell is a comprehensive book that provides a detailed overview of the Linux operating system and its command-line interface. It covers a wide range of topics including file management, text processing, shell scripting, and more. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, this book offers practical examples and explanations to help you master Linux commands and shell programming.

Who should read A Practical Guide to Linux Commands, Editors, and Shell Programming?

  • Individuals who want to learn and master Linux command-line and shell scripting

  • System administrators and IT professionals looking to enhance their Linux skills

  • Students and professionals pursuing a career in computer science or information technology


4
Linux Books: Exploring Raspberry Pi by Derek Molloy

What's Exploring Raspberry Pi about?

Exploring Raspberry Pi by Derek Molloy is a comprehensive guide that delves into the world of Raspberry Pi, a small but powerful computer that has gained immense popularity among tech enthusiasts and DIYers. The book covers everything from setting up your Raspberry Pi to exploring its various features and capabilities. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this book provides valuable insights and practical projects to help you make the most of your Raspberry Pi.

Who should read Exploring Raspberry Pi?

  • Enthusiasts who want to explore the potential of Raspberry Pi

  • Students and educators interested in hands-on learning with a versatile platform

  • DIY makers and hobbyists looking to build innovative projects with affordable hardware


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


6
Linux Books: Classic Shell Scripting by Arnold Robbins

Classic Shell Scripting

Arnold Robbins

What's Classic Shell Scripting about?

Classic Shell Scripting by Arnold Robbins is a comprehensive guide to writing and understanding shell scripts in Unix and Linux. It covers the basics of shell scripting, such as variables, loops, and functions, and also delves into more advanced topics like regular expressions and debugging. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this book provides valuable insights and practical examples to help you become proficient in shell scripting.

Who should read Classic Shell Scripting?

  • Unix and Linux system administrators looking to automate tasks and improve efficiency

  • Programmers and developers who want to enhance their scripting skills

  • IT professionals seeking a comprehensive guide to shell scripting best practices


What's Hands-On Network Programming with C about?

Hands-On Network Programming with C by Lewis Van Winkle is a practical guide that helps you master network programming using the C language. It provides step-by-step instructions and real-world examples to help you understand socket programming, network protocols, and building network applications. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced programmer, this book equips you with the knowledge and skills to create efficient and secure network solutions.

Who should read Hands-On Network Programming with C?

  • Programmers and developers who want to enhance their C programming skills in the context of networking

  • Students and professionals seeking a practical guide to network programming with C

  • Individuals interested in understanding the underlying principles and protocols of internet communication


8
Linux Books: Learning the bash Shell by Cameron Newham

Learning the bash Shell

Cameron Newham

What's Learning the bash Shell about?

Learning the bash Shell by Cameron Newham is a comprehensive guide to the bash command-line interface. It covers everything from basic commands to shell scripting and advanced features, making it an essential resource for both beginners and experienced users.

Who should read Learning the bash Shell?

  • Individuals who want to become proficient in using the bash shell

  • Programmers and system administrators who need to automate tasks and manage systems using the command line

  • Those who want to understand the inner workings of the Linux operating system and improve their productivity


9
Linux Books: Embedded Linux Primer by Christopher Hallinan

Embedded Linux Primer

Christopher Hallinan

What's Embedded Linux Primer about?

Embedded Linux Primer by Christopher Hallinan provides a comprehensive introduction to embedded Linux systems. It covers topics such as kernel configuration, device drivers, bootloaders, and real-time operating systems. With practical examples and in-depth explanations, this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to work with embedded Linux.

Who should read Embedded Linux Primer?

  • Embedded systems developers looking to enhance their skills in Linux-based development

  • Software engineers interested in understanding the intricacies of embedded Linux

  • Students or educators in the field of computer science and embedded systems


10
Linux Books: How Linux Works by Brian Ward

How Linux Works

Brian Ward

What's How Linux Works about?

How Linux Works by Brian Ward is a comprehensive guide that delves into the inner workings of the Linux operating system. It provides a clear and detailed explanation of the components and processes that make Linux function, making it an essential read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this powerful and versatile platform.

Who should read How Linux Works?

  • Individuals who want to deepen their understanding of the Linux operating system

  • Professionals working in IT or software development who use Linux in their daily work

  • Students or educators looking to expand their knowledge of computer science and operating systems


11
Linux 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


What's Harley Hahn's Guide to Unix and Linux about?

Harley Hahn's Guide to Unix and Linux is a comprehensive and user-friendly book that introduces readers to the world of Unix and Linux operating systems. Written by renowned author and educator Harley Hahn, this guide covers everything from the basics of file management to advanced shell scripting. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, this book is a valuable resource for learning and mastering Unix and Linux.

Who should read Harley Hahn's Guide to Unix and Linux?

  • Individuals who want to learn the fundamentals of Unix and Linux operating systems

  • Students and professionals in computer science or IT fields

  • Those who want to improve their command line skills and understand system administration


13
Linux Books: Ansible for DevOps by Jeff Geerling

Ansible for DevOps

Jeff Geerling

What's Ansible for DevOps about?

Ansible for DevOps by Jeff Geerling is a comprehensive guide to using Ansible for automating your IT infrastructure. Whether you're a developer, system administrator, or IT manager, this book provides practical examples and best practices for using Ansible to streamline your workflow and improve efficiency.

Who should read Ansible for DevOps?

  • DevOps engineers looking to automate their infrastructure and deployment processes

  • System administrators seeking a more efficient way to manage server configurations

  • Developers who want to streamline their application deployment and testing workflows


14
Linux Books: The Cathedral & the Bazaar by Eric S. Raymond

What's The Cathedral & the Bazaar about?

The Cathedral & the Bazaar (1999) by Eric S. Raymond explores the world of open-source software development. Through insightful essays and case studies, Raymond discusses the advantages of the decentralized, collaborative approach of the bazaar compared to the traditional, closed model of the cathedral. This book offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in the power of community-driven innovation.

Who should read The Cathedral & the Bazaar?

  • Individuals with an interest in open source software
  • Tech enthusiasts who want to understand the collaborative nature of software development
  • Business professionals looking to leverage the principles of open source for their organizations

15
Linux Books: The Art of UNIX Programming by Eric S. Raymond

What's The Art of UNIX Programming about?

The Art of UNIX Programming by Eric S. Raymond delves into the principles and practices of the UNIX philosophy and how they influence software design. It offers valuable insights for programmers and developers on creating elegant, efficient, and maintainable code. Through real-world examples and historical context, the book showcases the artistry and craftsmanship behind UNIX programming.

Who should read The Art of UNIX Programming?

  • Software developers and programmers who want to deepen their understanding of UNIX

  • Professionals looking to improve their coding skills and learn from UNIX design principles

  • Individuals interested in the history and philosophy behind UNIX and its impact on modern computing


16

What's Linux Kernel Development about?

Linux Kernel Development by Robert Love is a comprehensive guide to understanding and developing the Linux kernel. It delves into the inner workings of the kernel, covering topics such as process management, memory management, device drivers, and more. With practical examples and clear explanations, this book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about kernel development.

Who should read Linux Kernel Development?

  • Software developers and engineers looking to deepen their understanding of the Linux kernel

  • Computer science students or professionals interested in operating systems and low-level programming

  • Experienced programmers seeking to contribute to open-source projects or develop their own custom Linux distributions


17
Linux Books: UNIX in a Nutshell by Arnold Robbins

UNIX in a Nutshell

Arnold Robbins

What's UNIX in a Nutshell about?

UNIX in a Nutshell serves as a comprehensive guide to the UNIX operating system. It provides concise explanations of various commands, utilities, and tools, making it an essential resource for both beginners and experienced UNIX users. The book covers a wide range of topics, including file systems, networking, and shell scripting, offering practical examples and tips for efficient system administration.

Who should read UNIX in a Nutshell?

  • Anyone looking to learn or improve their Unix command line skills

  • System administrators and IT professionals who need a quick reference guide for Unix commands

  • Developers and programmers working in a Unix environment


18
Linux Books: sed & awk by Dale Dougherty

sed & awk

Dale Dougherty

What's sed & awk about?

sed & awk by Dale Dougherty is a comprehensive guide to two powerful text processing tools found in UNIX and Linux environments. From basic operations to advanced scripting, the book provides practical examples and explanations to help readers master the art of stream editing and pattern scanning/replacement.

Who should read sed & awk?

  • Programmers and system administrators who want to master text processing and manipulation

  • Those who work with large amounts of data and need efficient tools for parsing and transforming it

  • People who want to automate repetitive tasks involving text files and streams


What's Understanding Linux Network Internals about?

Understanding Linux Network Internals by Christian Benvenuti delves into the inner workings of the Linux networking stack. It provides a comprehensive guide to the networking architecture and protocols in the Linux kernel, making it an essential resource for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of network communication in the Linux environment.

Who should read Understanding Linux Network Internals?

  • Linux system administrators who want to deepen their understanding of networking

  • Network engineers and developers who want to gain insights into Linux networking internals

  • Computer science students and professionals interested in the inner workings of operating systems


20
Linux Books: Linux Phrasebook by Scott Granneman

Linux Phrasebook

Scott Granneman

What's Linux Phrasebook about?

Linux Phrasebook by Scott Granneman is a concise guide that provides quick access to essential Linux commands and code snippets. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this book offers practical tips and examples to help you navigate the Linux operating system with ease.

Who should read Linux Phrasebook?

  • Linux users who want to improve their command-line skills

  • System administrators who need quick reference for common tasks

  • Programmers and developers working in a Linux environment


21
Linux Books: Systems Performance by Brendan Gregg

Systems Performance

Brendan Gregg

What's Systems Performance about?

Systems Performance by Brendan Gregg is a comprehensive guide to understanding and optimizing the performance of computer systems. It covers a wide range of topics including CPU, memory, file systems, and networking, providing practical tips and real-world examples. Whether you're a system administrator, developer, or performance engineer, this book will help you improve the efficiency and reliability of your systems.

Who should read Systems Performance?

  • IT professionals and system administrators looking to optimize the performance of their systems

  • Developers and engineers who want to gain a deep understanding of system performance and how to improve it

  • Those who are interested in learning about advanced performance analysis and tuning techniques


22
Linux 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


23
Linux Books: Linux Pocket Guide by Daniel J. Barrett

Linux Pocket Guide

Daniel J. Barrett

What's Linux Pocket Guide about?

Linux Pocket Guide by Daniel J. Barrett is a concise and handy reference book that provides essential commands and information for navigating and using the Linux operating system. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, this book offers clear explanations and practical examples to help you become more proficient in working with Linux. From file management to networking, this guide covers a wide range of topics to make your Linux journey easier.

Who should read Linux Pocket Guide?

  • Linux users who want a quick reference guide for common commands and tasks

  • System administrators and IT professionals who need to manage Linux servers and systems

  • Developers who want to understand and use Linux for software development and deployment


What's Learning the vi and Vim Editors about?

Learning the vi and Vim Editors by Arnold Robbins is a comprehensive guide to mastering the powerful text editing tools vi and Vim. It covers everything from the basics of navigation and editing to advanced features like macros and plugins. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this book will help you become more efficient and productive with these popular editors.

Who should read Learning the vi and Vim Editors?

  • Individuals who want to master the vi and Vim text editors

  • Programmers and software developers who work in Unix or Linux environments

  • System administrators and power users who want to improve their text editing skills


25
Linux Books: Linux for Beginners by Jason Cannon

Linux for Beginners

Jason Cannon

What's Linux for Beginners about?

Linux for Beginners by Jason Cannon is a comprehensive guide that introduces the fundamental concepts and practical skills needed to navigate and utilize the Linux operating system. Through clear explanations and hands-on exercises, the book covers topics such as file management, user permissions, networking, and shell scripting, making it an ideal resource for those new to Linux.

Who should read Linux for Beginners?

  • Individuals who are new to Linux and want to learn the basics

  • People who want to expand their technical skills and knowledge

  • Professionals who work in IT or software development and need to familiarize themselves with Linux


26

What's Understanding the Linux Kernel about?

Understanding the Linux Kernel is a comprehensive guide that delves into the inner workings of the Linux operating system. Written by Daniel P. Bovet and Marco Cesati, this book provides a detailed explanation of the kernel architecture, process management, memory management, and device drivers. It is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deep understanding of how Linux operates.

Who should read Understanding the Linux Kernel?

  • Computer science students or professionals seeking a deep understanding of the Linux operating system

  • System administrators and IT professionals looking to enhance their knowledge of the Linux kernel

  • Developers who want to gain insights into the inner workings of Linux for optimizing their applications


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


28
Linux Books: Practical Vim by Drew Neil

Practical Vim

Drew Neil

What's Practical Vim about?

Practical Vim by Drew Neil is a comprehensive guide to using the Vim text editor more effectively. It provides practical tips and techniques to improve your editing skills, navigate files, and automate repetitive tasks. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this book will help you become a more efficient Vim user.

Who should read Practical Vim?

  • Software developers and programmers who want to improve their efficiency and productivity

  • Individuals who are new to Vim and want to learn how to use it effectively

  • Experienced Vim users who want to deepen their understanding and discover advanced techniques


29
Linux Books: The Kubernetes Book by Nigel Poulton

The Kubernetes Book

Nigel Poulton

What's The Kubernetes Book about?

The Kubernetes Book by Nigel Poulton is a comprehensive guide to understanding and using Kubernetes. It covers everything from the basics of containerization to advanced Kubernetes features, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. With clear explanations and practical examples, this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to master container orchestration with Kubernetes.

Who should read The Kubernetes Book?

  • Developers and software engineers looking to understand and master Kubernetes

  • IT professionals and system administrators responsible for managing containerized applications

  • Enterprise architects and technology leaders seeking to implement and optimize Kubernetes in their organizations


30
Linux Books: Linux Server Hacks by Rob Flickenger

Linux Server Hacks

Rob Flickenger

What's Linux Server Hacks about?

Linux Server Hacks by Rob Flickenger is a practical guide filled with tips and techniques for managing and optimizing Linux servers. From security to performance tuning, this book offers innovative solutions to common challenges, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced system administrators.

Who should read Linux Server Hacks?

  • System administrators and IT professionals looking to optimize and secure their Linux servers

  • Those interested in learning advanced tips and tricks for managing and maintaining Linux server environments

  • Individuals who want to enhance their knowledge of Linux server administration and automation


31
Linux Books: Absolute FreeBSD by Michael W. Lucas

Absolute FreeBSD

Michael W. Lucas

What's Absolute FreeBSD about?

Absolute FreeBSD by Michael W. Lucas is a comprehensive guide to the FreeBSD operating system. It covers everything from installation and configuration to networking, security, and advanced topics like virtualization and storage. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this book provides valuable insights and practical advice for getting the most out of FreeBSD.

Who should read Absolute FreeBSD?

  • System administrators and IT professionals looking to deepen their understanding of FreeBSD

  • Experienced FreeBSD users seeking advanced techniques and best practices

  • Those who want to build and manage high-performance, secure, and reliable FreeBSD-based systems


What's The Design of the UNIX Operating System about?

The Design of the UNIX Operating System by Maurice J. Bach provides an in-depth look at the inner workings of the UNIX operating system. It delves into the design principles, data structures, and algorithms that make UNIX a powerful and flexible system. Whether you're a student, developer, or system administrator, this book offers valuable insights into the foundation of modern operating systems.

Who should read The Design of the UNIX Operating System?

  • Computer science students and professionals interested in understanding the inner workings of UNIX

  • System programmers who want to gain a deep understanding of operating system design principles

  • Developers who want to enhance their knowledge of UNIX system calls and kernel-level programming


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 FAQs 

What's the best Linux book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Autotools as the ultimate read on Linux.

What are the Top 10 Linux books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Autotools by John Calcote
  • Command Line Kung Fu by Jason Cannon
  • A Practical Guide to Linux Commands, Editors, and Shell Programming by Mark G. Sobell
  • Exploring Raspberry Pi by Derek Molloy
  • Advanced Programming in the UNIX Environment by W. Richard Stevens
  • Classic Shell Scripting by Arnold Robbins
  • Hands-On Network Programming with C by Lewis Van Winkle
  • Learning the bash Shell by Cameron Newham
  • Embedded Linux Primer by Christopher Hallinan
  • How Linux Works by Brian Ward

Who are the top Linux book authors?

When it comes to Linux, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • John Calcote
  • Jason Cannon
  • Mark G. Sobell
  • Derek Molloy
  • W. Richard Stevens