10 Linux Books Every Programmer Should Read

Computer and Technology related books get outdated so fast. You might be better off getting a Linux magazine subscription. The fact that the basics rarely change would also help keep the texts relevant.


1) Understanding the Linux Kernel (Bovet & Cesati), 3rd Edition
This book talks about very specific data structures and OS algorithm implementations at they pertain to the 2.4 Linux kernel. Not sure what you are getting at. 3rd edition is 2006 ;)

2) Linux kernel development

3) Linux in a Nutshell - 1997

Linux, In a Nutshell, is great, see about getting more of the O'Reilly books if you want good reference books.

4) Linux Bible Paperback 8th Edition
by Christopher Negus (Author), Christine Bresnahan  (Contributor)

5) UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook (4th Edition) Paperback – July 24, 2010
UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook is an absolute must-have for any sysadmin or Linux systems engineer.

6) RHCSA/ RHCE Red Hat Linux Certification: Exams (Ex200 & Ex300) (Certification Press) Paperback – June 17, 2011
by Michael Jang (Author)

7) The Linux Programming Interface

The Linux Programming Interface: A Linux and UNIX System Programming Handbook (Michael Kerrisk) I've found The Linux Programming Interface to be one of the best in-depth books I've ever tried to read on Linux. Only issues with it are it's not too hands-on, so it's a bit difficult to retain, and maybe the price, bit would have to say it's still totally worth it. 

The only problem is its size, 1500+ pages might look intimidating, so use it on a need basis, more like a reference book. Instead of focusing on size, focus on what looks interesting, as this isn't the kind of book you read back-to-back and it's more helpful in using to figure out what you don't know you don't know.

8) Unix Shell Programming (3rd Edition), by Stephen Kochan (old bell labs employee)

9) The Linux Command-Line.
Have a look at The Linux Command-Line. The book focuses on novice users and the extended version is free for download.

10) Bash Guide, which I used to read
Books on bash would be useful as well since bash plays an important role in Linux.

That's all about some of the best book to learn Linux and Shell Programming.