20 best books on java – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re a developer looking to expand your knowledge of Java, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about Java that are sure to take your programming skills to the next level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced coder, these books cover a wide range of topics, from the basics of Java programming to advanced techniques and best practices. So, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to dive into the world of Java with these must-read books!


Effective Java

by Joshua Bloch

Effective Java by Joshua Bloch is a game-changing book on the art of mastering the language of the digital realm: Java. This gem of a book is not just another run-of-the-mill java book, but a profound guide that will empower you to write robust, efficient, and elegant code.

Java: A Beginner’s Guide

by Herbert Schildt

Java: A Beginner’s Guide by Herbert Schildt is not just any ordinary book about Java. It is a remarkable guide that holds your hand and takes you on a thrilling journey into the world of programming. If you’ve always wanted to learn Java but didn’t know where to start, this is the perfect book for you.

Java, often referred to as the “language of the internet,” is a versatile and powerful programming language used by millions of developers worldwide. And this book on Java is the ultimate companion for anyone wanting to dive into this exciting world.

Herbert Schildt, a renowned programming author, has a knack for explaining complex concepts in a simple and engaging manner. In this beginner’s guide, he starts from the very basics and gradually builds your knowledge and understanding of Java.

Whether you’re a complete novice or have some prior programming experience, this Java book caters to all levels of learners. Schildt’s clear explanations, real-world examples, and hands-on exercises make it easy for you to grasp the fundamentals of Java programming.

By the end of this book, you’ll have a solid foundation in Java and be able to create your own programs, work with data types, control structures, classes, and much more. Schildt’s expertise and guidance will empower you to confidently tackle Java projects and embark on a rewarding career in programming.

So, if you’re ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of Java, grab a copy of Java: A Beginner’s Guide by Herbert Schildt and get ready to unleash your programming potential!

Head First Java

by Kathy Sierra and Bert Bates

Are you ready to dive headfirst into the world of programming? Look no further than Head First Java, the ultimate book on all things Java! Written by the dynamic duo Kathy Sierra and Bert Bates, this engaging and comprehensive book about Java will take you on a wild ride through the fundamentals and beyond.

Java Concurrency in Practice

by Brian Goetz

Java Concurrency in Practice is a remarkable book on Java that dives deep into the fascinating world of multithreading and concurrent programming. If you are a developer looking to level up your skills in writing efficient, scalable, and thread-safe code, this book is an absolute gem.

Clean Code: A Handbook of Agile Software Craftsmanship

by Robert C. Martin

Clean Code: A Handbook of Agile Software Craftsmanship by Robert C. Martin is a legendary book on Java programming that every aspiring software developer should have in their arsenal. With its insightful guidance and practical examples, this book about Java will help you elevate your coding skills to the next level.

Java: The Complete Reference

by Herbert Schildt

Java: The Complete Reference by Herbert Schildt is the ultimate guide for anyone looking to dive into the vast world of programming. This comprehensive book on Java is like a treasure trove of knowledge, offering everything you need to become a Java guru.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced programmer, this book about Java will take you on an exciting journey, unraveling the mysteries of this powerful programming language. From the basics of Java syntax to advanced topics like multithreading and network programming, Schildt leaves no stone unturned.

With clear explanations, concise code examples, and helpful illustrations, this Java book is designed to make learning Java a breeze. Schildt’s writing style is engaging and accessible, ensuring that readers stay captivated throughout their learning journey.

Java: The Complete Reference covers everything from the fundamentals of object-oriented programming to the latest features introduced in Java 15. It also provides insights into best practices and coding techniques that will help you write efficient and maintainable Java code.

Whether you want to develop desktop applications, build web services, or create Android apps, this book on Java has got you covered. It equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle any Java project with confidence.

So, if you are ready to embark on an adventure into the world of programming, grab a copy of Java: The Complete Reference. Get ready to unlock the full potential of Java and become a master of this versatile language.

Thinking in Java

by Bruce Eckel

Thinking in Java by Bruce Eckel is a captivating and enlightening book on the world of programming with Java. If you’re seeking a comprehensive and engaging book about Java, this is definitely the one for you.

Java Performance: The Definitive Guide

by Scott Oaks

Java Performance: The Definitive Guide by Scott Oaks is the ultimate resource for anyone looking to unlock the full potential of their Java applications. This comprehensive book on Java dives deep into the intricacies of performance optimization, providing valuable insights and practical tips to help you squeeze every last drop of speed out of your code.

Whether you’re a seasoned Java developer or just starting out, this book about Java will equip you with the knowledge and tools to fine-tune your applications for maximum efficiency. From analyzing and profiling your code to understanding JVM internals, you’ll learn how to identify bottlenecks and eliminate them with proven optimization techniques.

Written in a clear and engaging style, Java Performance: The Definitive Guide covers a wide range of topics, including memory management, garbage collection, concurrency, and more. With real-world examples and case studies, you’ll not only learn the theory behind performance optimization but also see how it applies to real-world scenarios.

So, if you’re ready to take your Java applications to the next level, look no further than this must-have Java book. Whether you’re developing enterprise software, web applications, or mobile apps, Java Performance: The Definitive Guide will be your go-to resource for achieving lightning-fast performance and delivering a superior user experience.

Java 8 in Action: Lambdas, Streams, and Functional-Style Programming

by Raoul-Gabriel Urma, Mario Fusco, and Alan Mycroft

Java 8 in Action is a captivating book that delves into the world of functional-style programming, lambdas, and streams in Java. It is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in Java programming.

This book takes a unique approach to teaching Java by focusing on the latest features and techniques introduced in Java 8. It provides a comprehensive overview of functional programming concepts and demonstrates how they can be applied in real-world scenarios.

Whether you are a seasoned Java developer or just starting out, this book will surely help you level up your programming abilities. The authors, Raoul-Gabriel Urma, Mario Fusco, and Alan Mycroft, have done an excellent job of explaining complex topics in a clear and concise manner.

One of the highlights of this book is its extensive coverage of lambdas and streams. The authors explain these concepts in a way that is easy to understand and provide numerous examples to illustrate their usage. By the end of the book, you will have a solid understanding of how to leverage lambdas and streams to write more concise and efficient code.

Another notable aspect of Java 8 in Action is its focus on practical applications. The authors provide numerous real-world examples and case studies to demonstrate how functional-style programming can be used to solve common problems. This hands-on approach helps to reinforce the concepts and makes the book an invaluable resource for developers.

In conclusion, Java 8 in Action is a must-have book for anyone looking to master functional-style programming, lambdas, and streams in Java. Its engaging writing style, comprehensive coverage, and practical examples make it an essential resource for both experienced Java developers and beginners alike.

Java: How to Program

by Paul Deitel and Harvey Deitel

Are you ready to dive into the world of coding? Look no further than the incredible Java: How to Program by Paul Deitel and Harvey Deitel. This is not just any ordinary book on Java, my friend. This is the ultimate guide to mastering the Java programming language.

If you’re a newbie in the programming world, don’t fret! This book about Java is designed with beginners in mind. It takes you from the very basics and gradually builds your knowledge and skills. The authors have a knack for explaining complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand and digest.

But wait, there’s more! This Java book is not just for beginners. Even experienced programmers can benefit from the comprehensive content. It covers a wide range of topics, from the fundamentals of Java to more advanced techniques and best practices. Whether you want to create desktop applications, mobile apps, or web services, this book has got you covered.

One of the standout features of this book is its hands-on approach. The authors provide numerous examples and exercises throughout the chapters, allowing you to practice and reinforce what you’ve learned. They also provide detailed explanations and step-by-step instructions, ensuring that you can follow along and implement the concepts effectively.

So, if you’re looking for a book on Java that will take you from a beginner to a pro, look no further than Java: How to Program by Paul Deitel and Harvey Deitel. Get ready to unlock the secrets of Java and embark on an exciting coding journey!

Java: The Good Parts

by Jim Waldo

Java: The Good Parts is an incredible book about the magical world of Java. If you are an aspiring developer or a seasoned pro, this book on Java is a must-read. It dives deep into the language and uncovers its hidden gems, making it a treasure trove for Java enthusiasts.

Written by the brilliant mind of Jim Waldo, this book is more than just a guide. It’s a journey through the Java universe, where you’ll discover the best practices, tips, and tricks to harness the full potential of this versatile programming language.

Why settle for an ordinary book about Java when you can explore its good parts? With Java: The Good Parts, you’ll unravel the mysteries behind this powerful language and learn how to write clean, efficient, and elegant code. From object-oriented programming to concurrency and performance optimization, this book covers it all.

Whether you’re a Java aficionado or a curious beginner, this Java book will take your skills to new heights. So, buckle up and get ready to embark on an exciting adventure in the world of Java. Java: The Good Parts is the key that unlocks the door to Java mastery.

Java: The Legend

by Ben Evans

Java: The Legend is an extraordinary book about the fascinating world of Java programming. If you’re a coding enthusiast or simply curious about the language that has revolutionized the digital landscape, this is the book for you. Dive into the captivating pages of this Java masterpiece and unlock the secrets of this powerful programming language.

Java: The Legend takes you on a thrilling journey through the depths of Java’s history, its evolution, and its remarkable impact on the technology industry. From its humble beginnings to its dominance in the modern world, this book provides an insightful and comprehensive exploration of Java’s rise to legendary status.

Written by the renowned author, Ben Evans, Java: The Legend is a definitive guide that delves into the intricacies of the language, revealing its inner workings, best practices, and expert tips. Whether you’re a seasoned Java developer or a novice eager to embark on your coding adventure, this book offers a wealth of knowledge and practical examples to enhance your skills.

With its engaging narrative style and accessible language, Java: The Legend ensures that readers of all backgrounds can grasp the concepts effortlessly. From object-oriented programming to multithreading, from data structures to algorithms, this book covers it all, making it an essential companion for anyone seeking to master the art of Java programming.

So, if you’re ready to embark on an exhilarating journey into the world of Java, grab a copy of Java: The Legend and immerse yourself in the wonders of this incredible programming language. Get ready to unlock your coding potential and become a Java legend yourself!

Java 9 Modularity: Patterns and Practices for Developing Maintainable Applications

by Sander Mak and Paul Bakker

Java 9 Modularity: Patterns and Practices for Developing Maintainable Applications is a groundbreaking book on Java that delves into the exciting world of modularity. If you’re tired of the same old Java development practices and want to take your skills to the next level, this book is for you.

Written by Sander Mak and Paul Bakker, two renowned experts in the field, this book about Java introduces you to the concept of modularity and shows you how to apply it in your own projects. Modularity allows you to break down your code into smaller, more manageable pieces, making it easier to develop, test, and maintain.

But this book goes beyond just the theory. It provides you with practical examples and hands-on exercises that will help you master the art of modular Java development. You’ll learn how to use Java 9’s new module system, known as Project Jigsaw, to create modular applications that are flexible, scalable, and easy to maintain.

Whether you’re a seasoned Java developer or just starting out, this Java book will take your skills to new heights. So why wait? Dive into the world of modularity and create maintainable, future-proof Java applications today!

Java Network Programming

by Elliotte Rusty Harold

Java Network Programming by Elliotte Rusty Harold is a fascinating and comprehensive exploration of the world of networking in Java. This book dives deep into the intricate workings of networking, providing readers with a solid foundation in Java network programming.

For those seeking to expand their knowledge and skills in the realm of network programming, this book is a must-read. With its clear explanations and practical examples, it guides readers through the complexities of networking in Java, equipping them with the tools they need to develop robust and efficient network applications.

Whether you are a seasoned programmer looking to enhance your Java skills or a beginner eager to delve into the world of networking, this book is the perfect resource. It covers a wide range of topics, including sockets, protocols, network security, and much more, making it a comprehensive guide to all things network-related.

What sets this book apart is its approachable writing style and the author’s ability to break down complex concepts into easily digestible chunks. Harold’s passion for the subject shines through, making the learning experience enjoyable and engaging.

So, if you’re looking for a book on Java network programming that will take you on an exciting journey through the intricacies of networking, look no further. Java Network Programming by Elliotte Rusty Harold is the definitive guide that will elevate your understanding and skills in this dynamic field.

JavaFX 9 by Example

by Carl Dea, Gerrit Grunwald, José Pereda, and Sean Phillips

JavaFX 9 by Example is an exciting and dynamic book that takes you on a journey through the fascinating world of JavaFX 9. If you are looking for a book about Java that will not only teach you the essentials of JavaFX, but also provide you with practical examples and engaging projects, then this is the book for you.

Java EE 8 and Angular

by Prashant Padmanabhan

Java EE 8 and Angular, a powerful combination that brings together the best of both worlds – the robustness of Java EE and the dynamic front-end development capabilities of Angular.

Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting your journey in the world of programming, this book about Java EE 8 and Angular will be your ultimate guide.

With Java EE, you can build scalable, secure, and enterprise-level applications, while Angular allows you to create responsive and interactive user interfaces. Together, they form a perfect blend for building modern web applications that are both efficient and visually appealing.

So, if you’re looking for a comprehensive Java book that covers the latest version of Java EE and explores how it can be integrated with Angular, look no further. This book on Java EE 8 and Angular will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to develop cutting-edge web applications that meet the demands of today’s digital world.

Java 9 Programming By Example

by Peter Verhas

Java 9 Programming By Example is a comprehensive and hands-on guide that takes you on a journey to mastering Java programming. This book is a treasure trove of practical examples and real-world projects that will not only help you grasp the intricacies of Java but also enable you to build robust and efficient applications.

Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the fundamentals of Java or an experienced developer wanting to explore the latest features of Java 9, this book has got you covered. The author, Peter Verhas, has crafted a well-structured and engaging resource that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

One of the standout features of this book is its emphasis on hands-on learning. Each chapter is filled with code snippets, exercises, and projects that allow you to apply what you have learned in a practical manner. By following along with the examples and completing the exercises, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of Java but also develop the skills necessary to tackle real-world programming challenges.

Another highlight of this book is its coverage of the latest features in Java 9. From the new module system to the improved streams API, you will learn how to leverage these advancements to write cleaner, more efficient code. The author does an excellent job of explaining these concepts in a clear and concise manner, making them easily digestible for readers of all skill levels.

Overall, Java 9 Programming By Example is a must-read for anyone looking to master Java programming. Its hands-on approach, comprehensive coverage, and engaging writing style make it an invaluable resource for both beginners and experienced developers alike. So, whether you are a seasoned programmer or just starting your journey in the world of Java, this book is sure to take your skills to the next level.

Java: Data Science Made Easy

by Richard M. Reese

Java: Data Science Made Easy by Richard M. Reese is not just another book on Java. It is an exciting journey into the realm of data science, where you will discover the power and versatility of this programming language.

If you’re looking for a book about Java that goes beyond the basics, then look no further. This Java book dives deep into the world of data science, showing you how to leverage Java’s immense capabilities to analyze and visualize data, build predictive models, and uncover valuable insights.

But don’t worry, this isn’t your typical dry programming manual. Richard M. Reese takes a hands-on approach, guiding you through real-world examples and projects that will keep you engaged and excited throughout your learning journey. From exploring data sets to implementing machine learning algorithms, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish with Java.

So whether you’re a seasoned Java developer looking to expand your skillset or a data scientist eager to harness the power of Java, this book is your ultimate guide. Get ready to unlock the full potential of Java and embark on your data science adventure!

Java 9 Revealed: For Early Adoption and Migration

by Kishori Sharan

Java 9 Revealed: For Early Adoption and Migration by Kishori Sharan is a must-read for all developers looking to dive into the world of Java 9. This fascinating book on Java takes you on an exciting journey through the latest version of the popular programming language.

If you’re a programmer seeking to stay ahead of the curve, this book about Java will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to adopt and migrate to Java 9 seamlessly. Sharan’s expert guidance will help you navigate the new features and enhancements introduced in this version.

With Java being the backbone of countless applications, staying up-to-date with the latest developments is crucial. This Java book will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Java 9, empowering you to leverage its new capabilities to build robust and efficient software.

Whether you’re an experienced Java developer or just starting your journey in the world of programming, Java 9 Revealed is a valuable resource that will help you unlock the full potential of Java 9. So, grab a copy of this Java book and explore the exciting possibilities that await you!

Java: The Complete Developer’s Guide

by Tim Buchalka

Java: The Complete Developer’s Guide by Tim Buchalka is the ultimate book on Java, designed to turn anyone into a Java master. If you’ve ever wanted to dive into the exciting world of programming and develop your own applications, this book about Java is the perfect place to start.

Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience with coding, this Java book will take you on a thrilling journey through the fundamentals and advanced concepts of the Java programming language. Buchalka’s expertise and passion for the subject shine through every page, making it an engaging and captivating read.

With this comprehensive book, you’ll learn how to write clean, efficient, and powerful Java code. From understanding the basics of Java syntax to mastering object-oriented programming principles, this book will equip you with all the tools you need to become a confident Java developer.

Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with programming concepts – Buchalka’s explanations are clear and straightforward, guiding you through each topic step-by-step. With hands-on exercises and practical examples, you’ll be able to apply your newfound knowledge immediately.

So, whether you’re a student looking to enter the world of software development, a professional seeking to enhance your coding skills, or simply an enthusiast eager to explore the limitless possibilities of Java, this book is your ultimate companion. Get ready to unlock the full potential of Java and unleash your creativity!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about java are essential resources for anyone looking to learn and master the Java programming language. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer, these books cover a wide range of topics and provide in-depth knowledge on Java fundamentals, advanced concepts, and practical application. By investing your time in reading these books, you will gain the necessary skills and expertise to develop robust and efficient Java applications. So, pick up one of these books and embark on your journey to becoming a Java expert!