Java books: Overview and expert reviews for developers

Java books are an excellent source of both theoretical and practical information for programmers of all levels. Whether you are a complete beginner just stepping into the world of coding or an experienced developer looking to deepen your knowledge and stay updated on the latest trends, the right Java book can significantly broaden your horizons.

In this article, we bring you a list of the best books for Java programming, carefully selected by IT specialists. We provide an overview and expert reviews to help you navigate the wide range of Java books and choose literature that best suits your needs and goals. With these books, you will gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills needed to become a better Java developer.

Why choose Java programming books?

Java books, like programming books in general, are an excellent source of information for both beginners and advanced learners. Not only do they describe this programming language in detail, but they also make it easier to understand its basics as well as more advanced concepts, which will help you use it in practice.

Today, you can find a variety of books on the market. However, each of them approaches the Java programming language slightly differently. When choosing the right book, ask yourself a few questions:

• What is my current knowledge of Java? If you are a Java beginner, it makes no sense to reach for a book that delves deep into Java, as most of the information might be incomprehensible to you. Conversely, if you are an advanced Java developer, literature focused on the very basics will be unnecessary for you. Therefore, carefully consider your current skill level and which type of book would be most suitable for you.
• What do I want to learn? Do you want to learn the basics of Java, or are you interested in its practical application? Perhaps you want to know how to write clean and readable code. Many books specialize in just one area. Choose those that best fit your needs and study them in more detail.
• In which language do I want to read the book? If you have no problem with English, you have access to a vast amount of literature. If you prefer Slovak, the selection will be more limited, but you can still find quality books in Slovak.
• What learning style suits me best? Some books are purely theoretical and full of information, while others include practical and interactive exercises that allow you to practice what you’ve learned. Consider what works best for you, or perhaps get both types of books and see which helps you more.
• Is the book up to date? Java, like the IT world, is constantly evolving. You can learn the basics from older literature, but for more advanced and specific information, use the latest books that cover current versions of Java.
• What do others say? Last but not least, check the reviews from other readers. Find out if they were satisfied with the book, what they liked about it, and what they felt was missing. More detailed reviews, which you can find in our other articles, will also help you make your choice.

Java books for beginners

Books for Java beginners are one of the best sources from which you can draw important information and build a solid foundation. If you want to learn more about this language and are looking for good literature, you are in the right place.

The Java books on this list are highly recommended by experts in the Java programming language and are particularly useful for understanding the basics and starting out in programming (see also Coding Tips for Beginners). These books will guide you through the steps necessary for successfully building a career in IT.

Before you dive into studying Java books for beginners, it is useful to have at least basic knowledge of computers and logical thinking. If you are completely new to programming, first familiarise yourself with the basic concepts of programming, such as variables, data types, loops, and conditions.

Some Java beginner books also explain these basic concepts, but if you already have at least minimal experience with programming in another language, your learning will go much faster. Skills in mathematics are also useful but not essential – it depends on the type of applications you want to create in Java.

So, which programming books are suitable for beginners? Look for types of books that focus on:

• Java syntax basics: Books focused on understanding keywords, data types, operators, and basic program structures.
• Object-oriented programming (OOP): Books should explain concepts such as classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism, and encapsulation.
• Practical examples and exercises: It is important that the book contains plenty of examples and exercises that allow you to practise the knowledge you have acquired.
• Clear and understandable explanations: The language of the book should be simple and understandable, without unnecessary technical details that could confuse beginners.
• Up-to-date content: Make sure the book is updated for the latest version of Java (ideally Java 17 or newer) so that you learn current practices and use the latest features of the language.
• Availability in Slovak or Czech: If you prefer books in Slovak or Czech, look for translations of quality foreign books or original books by domestic authors.

Among the most popular and best Java books for beginners are primarily the following:

Head First Java: A Brain-Friendly Guide, 3rd Edition

Head First Java is a book that offers a complete educational experience in the Java language and object-oriented programming. With this book, you will learn Java using a unique method that goes beyond the standard “how-to” manuals and will help you become a great developer.

Find out more about the book Head First Java: A Brain-Friendly Guide.

Java: A Beginner’s Guide, 9th Edition

This book, exceptionally popular among beginners, which is updated for the Java Platform Standard Edition 17, shows how to start programming in Java from the very first chapter. The book, written by bestselling author and leading Java expert Herbert Schildt, begins with absolute basics—such as how to create, compile, and run a Java program. You will learn the basic keywords, syntax, and commands of the Java language.

Java: Programming Basics for Absolute Beginners

Learning a programming language can be a rather demanding task. Perhaps you have tried programming in the past, but it seemed too complicated. This comprehensive beginner’s guide will walk you through the basics of the Java programming language from the very foundations.

Java For Dummies, 8th Edition

The bestselling guide to the Java programming language, Java For Dummies, is an essential handbook for mastering this programming language. Even if you are not studying Java on the island of Java, thanks to the easy-to-understand explanations that make learning easier for both beginners and experienced developers, you will feel like you are on holiday.

Effective Java, 3rd Edition

Since the last update of this classic in 2008, the Java programming environment has changed dramatically. Java 7 and Java 8 introduced new features and functions, including the forEach() method in the Iterable interface, default and static methods in interfaces, functional interfaces and lambda expressions, an improved API, and above all, Java Stream for bulk data operations on collections, Java Time, collection enhancements, Concurrency, and Java IO.

Java books for advanced developers

Do you already have some knowledge of Java that you can build upon? In that case, take a look at the best programming books aimed at advanced learners.

Before diving into a book about Java for advanced developers, it is important that you have a foundation in the following areas:

• Basic Java concepts: A thorough understanding of classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism, and encapsulation.
• Data structures and algorithms: Knowledge of various data structures (lists, trees, graphs) and common algorithms (sorting, searching).
• Using Java APIs: Experience with using basic Java classes and interfaces, such as collections, input/output, and multithreading.
• Working with development tools: Familiarity with IDEs (Integrated Development Environments) like IntelliJ IDEA or Eclipse, build tools like Maven or Gradle, and version control tools like Git.
• Design patterns: Understanding common design patterns and their application in Java projects.

So, which programming books are suitable for advanced developers? Look for types of books that focus on:

• Advanced Java concepts: Lambda expressions, streams, reflection, annotations, dynamic proxies, and memory management.
• Parallel and concurrent programming: Multithreading, synchronization, locks, atomic operations, and thread pools.
• Web application development: Servlets, JSP, frameworks like Spring and Jakarta EE (formerly Java EE).
• Software design and architecture: Agile methodologies, design patterns, SOLID principles, and microservices.
• Testing and debugging: Unit testing, integration testing, behaviour testing, and debugging tools.
• Performance optimization: Memory analysis, code profiling, and application performance tuning.

We bring you reviews of the most popular and best Java books for advanced developers:

Thinking in Java, 4th Edition

The book Thinking in Java, written by Bruce Eckel, has won over developers worldwide thanks to its clear explanation of language principles, well-thought-out chapter structure, and numerous concrete programming examples. The publication is designed to teach you Java from basic syntax to its most advanced features.

Java: The Complete Reference,13th Edition

This comprehensive guide, fully updated for the current version of Java (Java SE 21), shows step by step how to design, write, debug, run, and maintain high-performance Java programs. Bestselling author Herbert Schildt and programming expert Dr. Danny Coward cover the entire Java language, including its syntax, keywords, and libraries. The book presents state-of-the-art development techniques and best practices.

Core Java: Fundamentals, Volume 1, 12th Edition

Core Java, Volume I: Fundamentals, is the definitive guide for writing robust and maintainable code. Regardless of the Java version you use – up to and including Java 17 – this book will help you achieve a deep and practical understanding of the language and APIs. Cay S. Horstmann reveals the most effective and efficient ways to perform tasks in Java through hundreds of realistic examples.

Core Java: Advanced Features, Volume 2, 13th Edition

Core Java je popredný praktický návod a referenčná príručka pre skúsených programátorov, ktorí chcú písať robustný kód v Jave pre aplikácie v reálnom svete. Now Core Java Volume II: Advanced Features Twelfth Edition has been revised to cover the new features and enhancements of the Java 17 LTS release. Ako vždy, všetky kapitoly boli kompletne aktualizované, zastaraný materiál odstránený a nové API podrobne popísané.

Java by Comparison: Become a Java Craftsman in 70 Examples

Write code that is clean, concise, and efficient. Code that others will enjoy reading and reusing. The ability to compare your code with that of an experienced developer is a great way to improve your coding skills.

Gain practical advice for improving coding style through short and understandable examples that compare flawed code with improved solutions. Discover useful tips and tricks, as well as common mistakes that every experienced Java developer should know.

Test-Driven Java Development, 2nd Edition

This book will teach you the concepts of test-driven development in Java, enabling you to create clean, maintainable, and robust code. Explore the most popular TDD tools and frameworks and become more proficient in creating applications. Vytváraj aplikácie s lepším dizajnom kódu, menším počtom chýb a vyšším pokrytím testov, čo ti umožní uviesť ich na trh rýchlejšie.

Test Driven: Practical TDD and Acceptance TDD for Java Developers

In test-driven development, you first write an executable test that defines what your application code should do. Then you write the actual code, and use a successful test to motivate you to improve the design of your code.

In acceptance test-driven development (ATDD), you use the same technique to implement product features, benefiting from iterative development, fast feedback cycles, and better-defined requirements. TDD, along with supporting tools and techniques, leads to faster development and higher-quality software.

Spring in Action, 6th Edition

The sixth edition of Spring in Action is a comprehensive guide to the core features of the Spring framework, explained in Craig Walls’ clear and engaging style. Step by step, you will build a complete web application backed by a database and gradually master Spring.

This new edition covers not only the basics of Spring but also new features such as reactive streams, integration with Kubernetes, and RSocket. Whether you are new to Spring or an experienced developer, this classic bestseller will become your invaluable guide.

Clean Code: A Handbook of Agile Software Craftsmanship

Renowned software expert Robert C. Martin presents a revolutionary paradigm in this book, summarizing the best agile practices for cleaning code “on the fly” and imparting the values of software craftsmanship that can make readers better programmers – but only if they are willing to put in the work.

Refactoring: Improving the Design of Existing Code, 2nd Edition

For over 20 years, experienced developers worldwide have relied on Martin Fowler’s book Refactoring to improve the design of existing code, make it easier to maintain, and simplify its understanding.

Functional Programming in Java: Harness the Power of Streams and Lambda Expressions, 2nd Edition

Imagine you are writing code in Java that is clear, concise, easy to read, and easy to maintain, without unnecessary complexity. With functional programming in Java, it’s not just an idea—it’s an achievable reality. Using a wealth of clear examples, this book guides you from the traditional imperative style to the practical application of functional principles in your everyday work.

Apply the techniques you’ve learned to turn complex imperative code into elegant, easy-to-understand functional code. Updated to the latest version of Java, this edition includes four new chapters focusing on error handling, refactoring to functional style, data transformation, and functional programming idioms.

Java Concurrency in Practice

Threads are a fundamental part of the Java platform. As multi-core processors have become the norm, the efficient use of code running in parallel is essential for creating high-performance applications.

Java SE 5 and 6 represented a huge step forward in concurrent application development with enhancements to the Java Virtual Machine to support high-performance, highly scalable concurrent classes and a rich set of new building blocks for concurrency. In Java Concurrency in Practice, the creators of these new features explain not only how they work and how to use them, but also the motivation and design patterns behind their implementation.

Bonus: More resources to help you broaden your horizons

Java books are a great source of practical information for beginners and advanced programmers alike. However, they are not the only option. You can expand your theoretical knowledge in other ways, too:

• Courses: They can be purely theoretical or include a practical part. They are taught by experts with extensive experience in the field. Both face-to-face and online courses are available, so you can learn from the comfort of your home. It’s best to choose courses that provide a certificate on completion that you can put on your CV or portfolio.
• Workshops: They help you translate theoretical knowledge into practice. Like courses, they can be organized in person or online. They are ideal especially if you already have a basic understanding of programming and know Java in more detail.
• Podcasts: A great source of information that you can use while travelling or when you don’t have a chance to read. They are often made by experts who offer interesting and useful insights. If podcasts don’t interest you, you can try videos on YouTube or other educational platforms.
• Forums and social media groups: These places bring together many experts who discuss various topics, including the Java programming language. You can ask questions and solve problems you encounter not only at the beginning of your studies but also later in professional development.

Beyond specific book recommendations, it is important to understand how the environment around Java is constantly evolving. For example, the introduction of functional features in Java 8 significantly influenced the way developers write code today – thanks to lambda expressions and streams, data can be processed more concisely and efficiently. Equally important is knowing how to distinguish between different versions of Java SE so you can fully utilise new improvements and security updates.

Ambitious developers should not focus solely on technical innovations but also on the quality of the code itself. A significant resource is the book Clean Code, which, although not exclusively about Java, offers valuable advice on writing maintainable and readable code – a skill highly valued across the entire software industry. Access to digital versions of technical books (e.g., PDFs) can also make studying easier and allow you to practise new knowledge anywhere.

Tips for learning Java from books

Effectively mastering programming with Java books requires a thoughtful approach and discipline. Passive reading is not enough – the key is to actively engage in learning and regularly test new knowledge in practice. However, choosing the right Java book is only the first step. If you want to take your progress to the next level and become a professional Java developer, consider these tips:

• Set specific goals: Before you start studying a book, think about what exactly you want to achieve. Do you want to master the basics of syntax, understand the principles of object-oriented programming, or focus on a specific area, such as web application development? Clearly defined goals will help you stay motivated and focus on essential topics.
• Create a regular study plan: Learning Java requires time and, above all, consistency. Set up a study plan that allows you to dedicate time to programming regularly – ideally every day or at least several times a week. Regular learning will help you maintain continuity and prevent you from forgetting what you’ve already learned. Schedule specific times each week, reserve them for study, and try to stick to them.
• Actively practise coding: Just reading books is not enough. To truly progress in programming, it is essential to work actively with the code. Practise examples from the book, experiment, modify existing code, add new features, and try creating your own programs. The more you code, the better you will understand individual concepts and the faster you will master the Java language. If you encounter a problem, don’t hesitate to look up solutions online or ask in programming communities – this is also part of the learning process.
• Join programming communities: Learning Java doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Join online forums, discussion groups, or attend local programming meetups. Discuss the questions you’re working on, share your experiences, and learn from others. Active involvement in the community will help you broaden your horizons, make new connections, and find fresh inspiration for further development.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own solutions: Programming is about creativity and problem-solving. Don’t be afraid to try different approaches and find your own paths. If you encounter a problem, don’t immediately reach for a ready-made solution from the internet – first, try to solve it yourself. Even if your solution isn’t perfect right away, you’ll learn much more than if you just copied someone else’s code. And remember, searching for errors and debugging is as much a part of programming as writing the code itself.

If you want to get the most out of studying Java books, set specific goals for each study session and regularly track your progress. Use a code editor, actively write your own programs, and experiment with modifications to see how changes affect the outcome. Don’t be afraid to revisit older chapters if you need to reinforce your knowledge. By combining focused learning with practical exercises, you will master Java programming much faster and with greater confidence.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Which Java books are suitable for beginners?

If you are starting with Java, excellent choices include the books Head First Java and Java: A Beginner’s Guide. The first one uses a visual and interactive approach, making it easier to grasp even more complex concepts. The second guides you through the basics step by step and offers detailed explanations that will help you safely master your first steps in programming.

Where can I find PDF versions of Java books?

Many online platforms offer Java books in PDF format, either for free or as paid versions. However, always verify whether the source is legal before downloading to avoid violating copyright. Some websites provide legal download options, often as part of a subscription, official promotions, or special offers.

Which Java book is best for experienced developers?

Effective Java and Thinking in Java are highly recommended for experienced developers. Effective Java by Joshua Bloch focuses on best practices and advanced techniques that help in writing robust and maintainable code. Thinking in Java by Bruce Eckel provides a deep understanding of the language and its principles, making it an invaluable resource for experienced developers looking to expand their knowledge.

If you are a programmer with advanced skills, excellent choices are Effective Java and Thinking in Java. The first focuses on best practices and advanced techniques that will help you write robust, efficient, and maintainable code. The second provides a deeper understanding of the language itself and its principles, making it an ideal resource for anyone looking to further deepen their knowledge.

Do JavaScript books help with Java programming?

No, JavaScript books cover a completely different language than Java. JavaScript is primarily used for creating websites and web applications, whereas Java is used for developing large-scale enterprise systems, mobile applications, and various other solutions. Although the names sound similar, they are two distinct programming languages with entirely different purposes and applications.

Are older Java books still relevant?

While the core concepts of Java do not change much, you are better off using updated books. Java is constantly evolving, and newer versions of the language bring important improvements and new features. If you learn from current sources, you can be sure you are mastering modern practices and working with the latest tools and APIs. It is recommended to choose books that have been updated at least for Java 8 or newer versions.

What are common mistakes beginners make when learning Java?

Among the most frequent mistakes are weak mastery of the basics, irregular practice of coding, and underestimating the importance of debugging. Other common errors include ignoring best practices, improper memory management, and inefficient use of Java APIs. If you avoid these mistakes, you will significantly improve your learning and progress faster towards becoming a better Java developer.

Which books will help me prepare for a Java interview?

If you are preparing for a job interview, an excellent choice is the book Grokking the Java Interview. It contains a large number of questions and answers that will help you test your knowledge in areas such as object-oriented programming, core APIs, multithreading, collections, and other topics. Thanks to such books, you can better assess your strengths and weaknesses and focus on areas that still need refinement.

Conclusion: Expand your knowledge with Java books

Programming books are a great source of information that you will need as a Java programmer. Get inspired by our list and choose the titles that will help you master both the basics and advanced topics. There are more than enough options – whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer, you will surely find something that suits your needs.

When selecting books, consider your current level, learning style, and the topics that interest you most. Master the learning process itself, keep up with Java-related news, and practise regularly – this is what will gradually lead you to becoming a skilled and confident Java developer!

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Java books: Overview and expert reviews for developers