CPP Book Recommendations

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Though the Second Life Client is not recommended as a first programming project due to its massive size and complexity, there are a few books that may help you find your way through the code if you're familiar with basic programming theory.

Thinking in C++ Series

Full texts for all books available at Bruce Eckel's website

  • Thinking in C++ Volume 1
    • Great intro to C++ for those familiar with programming, or as a refresher for those that haven't seen it in a while
  • Thinking in C++ Volume 2
    • Covers using the STL, exceptions, and other more advanced parts of the C++ language

Other Books (available through places like amazon)

  • If you've never touched programming before and absolutely, positively want to learn C++ first (really, really not recommended)
    • C++: How to Program - Dietel & Dietel
    • Accelerated C++ - Andrew Koenig and Barbara Moo
  • Books for sharpening your C++ skills:
    • Effective C++ - Scott Meyers
    • More Effective C++ - Scott Meyers
    • Exceptional C++ - Herb Sutter
    • More Exceptional C++ - Herb Sutter
  • Books for understanding some of the design tactics in the code base
    • Design Patterns - Gamma et. al. (The Gang of Four Book)
      • There's singletons, factories, and other patterns scattered throughout the code, and while explained in many places on the web, this is the book that really started it all
    • Modern C++ Design - Andrei Alexandrescu
      • Introduction to Template Metaprogramming. If you get anywhere near the boost library, it's a good idea to know what's going on under the hood.