If you are a Java developer passionate about learning new things about the industry, books are one of the major sources from where you can take credential information. And luckily for you, I have read tons of books in this field, and I’m ready to present you with the best books for Java programmers now. I hope you will get a lot of useful info and excellent tips to become even a greater developer! Enjoy, my friend!
1. Effective Java: 3rd Edition
In case you have missed this super cool book, it is a must-read. Go to the store or order it online immediately. I have started my list with this book on purpose. It is so great that I basically could not stop reading it. Now Effective Java is my guide in programming, and I always recommend it to my colleagues. From Java 8 and Java SE 8 to Java 9, this baby has it all!
2. Modern Java Recipes
Like a cooking book, Modern Java Recipes contains simple and easy to follow instructions for solving some common problems in Java 8 and Java 9. There are lots of tutorials and guidelines, so even beginners will understand the procedures. But suppose you want to broaden your knowledge in Java 8 and Java 9. In that case, you will also find something interesting, for example, writing code with idioms like lambda expressions, method reference, and Stream API.
3. Java 9 Modularity
One of the best new features of Java 9 is Java Modularity (or Java Module), which is really worth your attention. And this book is the best option to start from. Written by programming experts Sander Mak and Paul Bakker, Java 9 Modularity comprises the authors’ broad knowledge and vast experience. Besides, you have likely completed some of their online courses. They are very popular in the world of Java, so you can trust them. One thing is sure – you won’t be disappointed if you buy the book now. Investing in yourself is always money well spent!
4. Core Java SE 9 for the Impatient (2nd Edition)
This is another awesome book for beginners that will become the best friend along the way of mastering Java SE 9. The book is very detailed, so there is no chance you will waste your time googling for the meaning of the terms or searching for more information. And if you have read any other books by Cay S. Horstmann, you probably understand what I mean.
5. Beginning Java 8 Language Features
Even though Java 8 SE was released years ago, many developers should start with Java 8 first. Don’t worry. The path is long, but it will be as easy and smooth as possible with Beginning Java 8 Language Features. No more struggles over vague instructions and blurred terms. This book explains everything in a very simple language. The first edition covers lambda expressions, Optional, Stream API, and other basic Java 8 features. In the next two editions, you will learn more advanced Java 8 like JDBC, Swing, Java FX, and Java Networking APIs.
6. Spring Microservices in Action
Software development is constantly improving, and new technologies such as microservices appear. The benefits of a microservices architecture are numerous, from deployment and scalability to support and reliability. It is great to know that the Spring Framework comprises various tools, including Spring Boot and Spring Cloud. They are used to add microservices to Java. If you are excited about technology and want to become a real pro, the knowledge of microservices will be a great plus.
7. Clean Architecture
I’m a big fan of Robert C. Martin. This author is very special to me because I started learning to code with his magnificent guides Clean Code and Clean Coder. If you haven’t read them by any chance, please do it. Clean Architecture is the final book of the trilogy, and it teaches how to create a software architecture that will live for ages. On top of that, there you will find interesting points of view on popular misconceptions about design patterns and software architecture. It is a must-read for advanced programmers!
8. Cloud Native Java
Nowadays, technologies develop so rapidly that you have to go the extra mile every time to stand out among the competition and get the most exciting projects. And they are often connected to microservices, cloud, distributed architecture, and so on. Therefore, Josh Long and Kenni Bastani created an awesome guide for Java and JVM programmers explaining how to build wonderful Java applications using state of the art tools like Spring Boot, Spring Cloud, and Cloud Foundry. Believe me – this book is something that will keep you awake in bed for several nights.
