Recommended Reading

This is a list of some of the most useful and interesting reading I’ve come across. Most of it’s tech related, but I also include other topics that are useful to software developers.

Essays

Maker’s Schedule, Managers Schedule

This essay really hits the nail on the head when it comes to scheduling. I’ve made it a point to share this with all of my coworkers and it’s lead to significant improvements in productivity.

The Principles of the Agile Manifesto

Agile Is Dead (Long Live Agility)

The essays above describe a version of agile that is less about paperwork and more about producing working software. It’s a vision worth keeping in mind.

Books

Software Development

The Pragmatic Programmer: From Journeyman to Master

This is my favorite programming book. It contains a ton of great advice about the craft of software development and how to become better at that craft.

Jeff Atwood has an excellent summary of the book here.

The Passionate Programmer: Creating a Remarkable Career in Software Development

This is an excellent career development book for software developers.

JavaScript: The Good Parts

This book will change the way you think about JavaScript.

Remote: Office Not Required

Another book from the people behind Basecamp (formerly 37 Signals). This one is about how we’re moving to a world where work can be done anywhere. (I’m writing this from a coffee shop.)

Psychology

The Design of Everyday Things: Revised and Expanded Edition

A great read for software developers because it makes you aware of the amount of thought placed into things you interact with every day.

Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School

A fascinating book about how the mind works and what you can do to make your mind work better.

The Righteous Mind

Learn from people you disagree with to become more innovative, and apply the lessons to the software world.

A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy

An accessible and actionable introduction to stoic thinking for software developers.

The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business

A great book to learn how to reprogram your own habits.

Writing

The War of Art

A book about art with lessons that translate well to the field of software development.

On Writing Well, 30th Anniversary Edition: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction

A book that will help you develop important communication skills.

Innovation

Sapiens

A highly entertaining, unorthodox view of human history that challenges basic assumptions.

Geography of Genius

A book that explores times and places throughout history that have “golden ages” of innovation.

Evolution of Everything

A book that challenges deeply held beliefs and illustrates how innovation is an evolutionary process.

Smarter Better Faster

A tactical look at creativity and a guide to improving other aspects of mental performance.

Deep Work

A compelling argument for making “deep work” (focused work) one of your primary priorities.

Competing Against Luck

A fantastic intellectual power tool for building new products using the “Jobs to Be Done” theory of innovation.