I'm on the hunt for some great introductory books on computer science that focus on the fundamentals rather than specific programming languages. I've heard good things about 'Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software' (2nd edition). What do you all think? Any other recommendations?
5 Answers
Knuth's 'The Art of Computer Programming' might be a bit advanced as an intro, but it’s a classic that everyone should read eventually. Just be prepared for a serious commitment!
I recently read 'Grokking Algorithms' and thought it was great for beginners. It's illustrated and breaks concepts down in a really digestible way.
'Code' by Charles Petzold is fantastic for understanding how computers function at a fundamental level. I found it really enlightening!
If you're looking for a more accessible read, 'Computer Science Distilled' by Wladston Ferreira Filho offers a good overview of problem-solving in computer science. Plus, it's compact enough to finish without feeling overwhelmed.
If you're looking for a more structured program, I'd suggest checking out CS50, Harvard's free "Introduction to Computer Science" course. It's really engaging and not heavily book-focused, which might suit new learners better than traditional texts.
That’s a solid suggestion! Hands-on learning can be way more effective.
Totally agree! It gives a deep insight into the inner workings of computers.