A career as a Software Engineer can be confusing, moreso if you're new. Here are 5 books to help make sense of this complex problem.
1. So Good They Can't Ignore You - Cal Newport
The only book on this list not strictly catered for Software Engineers. Cal Newport writes about the mindset of taking control of your life, providing research-backed evidence for learning to love what you do.
2. The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide - John Sonmez
A long, but comprehensive read that covers many of the strategies and techniques useful to planning your career. The audio book was narrated by John Sonmez (the author) himself and is easy to consume on your commute. The book covers many questions you might face such as which language to learn, how to fill gaps in your technical knowledge "softer" topics such as what to wear to interviews.
3. The Pragmatic Programmer - David Thomas, Andrew Hunt
Viewed in high regard by many and one of the top recommendations on any Software Engineer's reading list. The Pragmatic Programmer highlights many common pitfalls and best practices that will help you approach technical challenges. I reread this book every few years and it brings me new insight proves to be a gem every time.
4. Grokking Algorithms
Grokking Algorithms is a very accessible way to learn data structures and algorithms. While it isn't the most comprehensive, it certainly makes it more enjoyable, especially if you do not have a background in Computer Science! I would recommend using this book as an introduction into more formal studies on the subject.
5. Cracking the Coding Interview
Probably the longest book I own. Similar to The Complete Software Developer's Career Guide - John Sonmez in scope, but with a focus on the technical aspect job hunt and how to prepare for it. Covers topics such as questions you should ask after an interview, and exerts of important data structures and algorithms.
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