10 Best C Programming Books

Appearing before C++, C is the primary programming language many programs still use today. It has a hugely popular application that is the foundation for many other programming languages.

C is also a primary programming language that beginners should master. It requires you to pay attention to study and improve your knowledge regularly.

This article will review the top ten C programming books. These publications can provide helpful knowledge for you to tackle complex tasks.

1. Effective C

Effective C: An Introduction to Professional C Programming

Specification

  • Publisher: No Starch Press
  • Language: English
  • Item Weight: 1.15 pounds
  • Print length: 272 pages

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Reason To Buy

  • Reputable author
  • Famous book titles
  • Clearly explained
  • Full of theory

Review

Those who study programming or work in the information technology industry are certainly no strangers to the name Robert C. Seacord.

He is one of the world’s top programming book authors, voted by International Developer magazine. The book I recommend to you is one of the most outstanding, Effective C: An Introduction to Professional C Programming.

Of the many books written on the C programming language on the market, it is the product that many consider being very suitable for newcomers.

As I read this book, I found the author gave detailed language explanations. The author’s text is simple for people who have never been exposed to C.

It is an indispensable book for any student or person who wants to learn about programming. All the basic concepts and knowledge bases are in the book in a clear and logical sequence. You will quickly master the theory of C programming after reading this book carefully.

I also love the accompanying references that the author gives. These documents and the book’s knowledge have helped me a lot in my work and learning process.

2. C Programming Language

C Programming Language

Specification

  • Publisher: ‎ Pearson; 2nd edition (March 22, 1988)
  • Language: ‎ English
  • Print length: ‎ 279 pages
  • File size: ‎ 17590 KB
  • Dimensions: ‎ 7.99 x 10 x 1.85 inches

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Reason To Buy

  • Clear information
  • Suitable for beginners
  • Logical and clear presentation
  • Experienced Author

Review

Many people have called Kernighan and Ritchie’s C Programming Language “the bible in the field of computer science.”

It is not an exaggerated name. The book is the result of efforts from a well-known software designer with extensive computer technology experience.

Their profound knowledge and presentation are equally impressive.

After reading this book, I found the author’s inner statements very clear. The author has conveyed knowledge highly effectively to readers through clear and simple words. It didn’t take long to understand what the author was referring to.

The author describes things in the book as slow lessons that anyone can learn.

The content in the book is divided into chapters in a logical sequence. I can understand how the author presents and the connection the publication makes. After the main contents, the book also provides valuable references.

The book gave me an overview of the C programming language, and I found it extremely useful for anyone wanting to learn about the field.

Every programmer should have this on their bookshelf. It has helped me train my ability to code carefully and correctly from the beginning of the process.

3. C Programming Absolute Beginner’s Guide

C Programming Absolute Beginner’s Guide

Specification

  • Paperback: ‎ 352 pages
  • Language: ‎ English
  • Item Weight: ‎ 1.15 pounds
  • Dimensions: ‎ 7 x 0.9 x 9 inches

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Reason To Buy

  • Various references
  • Clearly explained
  • Presentation of basic concepts
  • Easy-to-understand example

Review

The following work on this list is a highly suitable publication for beginners. I used this work to understand more about C basics.

I no longer feel pressured to deal with this programming language theory. I had the opportunity to explore C programming language applications using the free version for Windows on my computer.

By applying the simple instructions given by the author, I could practice using the commands to operate the program. It is a great help for beginners to understand the structure of the language and familiarize themselves with the most scientific manipulation procedures.

The author presented the content of the book as awe-inspiring to me. The author’s explanations are clear enough for the reader to understand them.

The examples in work are elementary to understand. So, you won’t have any trouble starting to learn about C with this book.

The references that the author mentions are very diverse. I found a lot of helpful material in this section. I have recommended this work to my friends looking to start learning C programming.

4. Head First C: A Brain-Friendly Guide

Head First C: A Brain-Friendly Guide

Specification

  • Publisher: ‎ O’Reilly Media; 1st edition (May 8, 2012)
  • Language: ‎ English
  • Item Weight: ‎ 2.6 pounds
  • Dimensions: ‎ 8 x 1.31 x 9.25 inches

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Reason To Buy

  • Clear content
  • Details are presented in chapters
  • Basic knowledge and easy to grasp
  • Real-life examples for easy follow

Review

Good programmers must have read or heard of this textbook for programming.

The Head First C: A Brain-Friendly Guide provides basic and transparent information about the C programming language for anyone to follow.

It is one of the books I recommend to my friends who are interested and want to learn about C programming. I am pleased with how the book’s content has been divided into chapters logically.

Every aspect the book covers is crucial for your C programming skills. The author has tried to present the most detailed chapters so readers can easily follow. After owning the work, I have not missed any outstanding knowledge in this programming language.

The author gives basic knowledge about C and describes some deep connections between C and another programming language, Unix. It is advanced knowledge for you to grasp the practical application of the C language today.

The book also provides sample code and clear examples for readers to follow.

I have tested and mastered many new skills with this book. After finishing reading this publication, I gained tremendous confidence in my work. You should read it as soon as possible when learning about the C programming language.

5. C Programming in Easy Steps

C Programming in easy steps

Specification

  • Publisher: ‎ Print Easy Steps Limited
  • Language: ‎ English
  • File size: ‎ 11317 KB
  • Print length: ‎ 197 pages

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Reason To Buy

  • Low price
  • Bright cover colors
  • Easy to understand
  • Lots of pictures from the show

Review

The next book I want to discuss on this list is a beginner’s book. I got this piece when I was just a college student, and it has been a great help to me while learning about the C language.

The primary content presented by the author in the book is very detailed and easy to understand. I was able to absorb the knowledge presented in work.

The author has arranged each book chapter logically from low to high in complexity. I can follow the content without any discomfort or confusion.

In addition to the basic theory, the book contains many concrete examples for other readers to follow and me.

Many complete photos in the book have helped me detail the available cases to apply the C programming language. Its bright colors are also a plus point for the reader’s attraction.

Schools can also make this book available to students, and its low cost makes it accessible to everyone. Yet, you should have a little basic computer knowledge for better reading efficiency.

6. Expert C Programming: Deep Secrets

Expert C Programming: Deep Secrets

Specification

  • Publisher: ‎ Pearson; 1st edition (June 14, 1994)
  • Language: ‎ English
  • File size: ‎ 19883 KB
  • Print length: ‎ 837 pages

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Reason To Buy

  • Easy to follow
  • Interesting stories
  • Point out the program traps
  • A detailed explanation of important aspects

Review

I enjoyed how the author told this book’s historical stories related to the C programming language. These anecdotes fueled my interest in learning and reading more on the subject.

The author gave me insight into the relationship between pointers and array theory using imperative expression declaration syntax.

These are the two main contents that the author wants to explain in his book.

These two things are complicated, and the fact that the reader can clarify them gives them a great plus when competing with other publications on the market.

The author led the reader through the aspects in a light and easy-to-follow manner. So, I felt free when faced with the contents of the book. And the critical details all have appropriately detailed explanations.

The work also provides traps and points out common C programming language mistakes. Hence, it benefits those who often face this language, like me. It has taken my work capacity to a whole new level.

7. The C Programming Language

The C Programming Language

Specification

  • Publisher: ‎ Pearson India; 2nd edition (October 8, 2015)
  • Language: ‎ English
  • Item Weight: ‎ 14.5 ounces
  • Dimensions: ‎ 7.99 x 10 x 1.85 inches

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Reason To Buy

  • Full information
  • Clear content
  • Easy to follow
  • Reasonable presentation
  • Famous works

Review

This publication is an edited paperback. You will receive a portable “bible” in the computer and information technology industry.

The eye-catching green cover with guaranteed paper quality and clear ink will satisfy even the most demanding book collector.

The author introduces detailed information about the C programming language and related information. I have learned many valuable tips while programming through this publication. The author explained to me how the program works and why one should use these algorithms and not the other.

It does not teach you how to program from scratch, but only supports advanced programming. I made a massive leap in proficiency after researching this piece.

8. C Programming: A Modern Approach

C Programming: A Modern Approach

Specification

  • Publisher: ‎ W. W. Norton & Company
  • Language: ‎ English
  • Paperback: ‎ 832 pages
  • Item Weight: ‎ 2.57 pounds
  • Dimensions: ‎ 7.5 x 1.1 x 9.2 inches

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Reason To Buy

  • Modern approach
  • Clearly explained
  • Practical exercises
  • Light and attractive office
  • The answers to the question are fascinating

Review

The next book on this list is a light and engaging office product that anyone will love. I feel the love and passion that the author has for the C programming language. That feeling has become the driving force behind my work and work.

Publications written on the first C language fell out of favor after the program underwent several modifications. So, updating new approaches to adapt to today’s modern reality is extremely necessary.

The author has detailed C99, comparing it with the previous C90 to give an overview for readers.

The precise explanation for each problem in the book makes me very satisfied. In each chapter, the author will answer fascinating questions that I can use to review my knowledge. These examples have helped me improve my use of the C language. My confidence has increased dramatically.

The practical exercises that the book offers are also attractive challenges for readers. They can be difficult, but trying will teach you many valuable lessons.

In short, it is a book that you should experience in your learning about the C programming language.

9. Computer Fundamentals and Programming in C

Computer Fundamentals and Programming In C

Specification

  • Publisher: OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS (January 1, 2016)
  • Language: ‎ English
  • Item Weight: ‎ 2.2 pounds
  • Dimensions: ‎ 7.99 x 10 x 1.85 inches

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Reason To Buy

  • Eye-catching edition
  • Detailed C coding processes
  • Provide basic and valuable knowledge
  • Good example and easy to understand

Review

The following work on this list is a highly engaging edition. When I started learning about the C language, I decided to buy this book right after reading its title. Luckily, I was satisfied with my quick decision.

This book explains essential C programming basics to me. I have mastered the background knowledge after owning this work. The author did not make me feel awkward in any way, and all the information was transparent to understand.

The specific examples presented in the book support perfect practice. There can even be more than 30 illustrated programs in a book chapter. It provides valuable help to anyone just starting to learn about C programming.

I have recommended this work to many who want to pursue this programming language and to university students in related fields. They all feel it’s excellent for beginners.

10. Low-Level Programming: C, Assembly, and Program Execution

Low-Level Programming: C, Assembly, and Program Execution

Specification

  • Publisher: ‎ Apress; 1st ed. edition (June 29, 2017)
  • Language: ‎ English
  • Item Weight: ‎ 19.05 pounds
  • Dimensions: ‎ 7.01 x 1.05 x 10 inches

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Reason To Buy

  • Useful for beginners
  • It offers many new techniques
  • Extend many applications for C programming

Review

The last book on this list that I recommend to you is a work by Igor Zhirkov. He is a talented lecturer at ITMO University in Saint Petersburg, responsible for lectures on programming language systems.

The information present in the Low-Level Programming is all research and experience of the author, so you can rest assured to trust.

The author’s presentation is concise but still very easy to understand. The work is like a gentle lecture for students and students who want to study careers related to information technology and computer science. For those who are already employed, this publication can also provide excellent academic support.

I had the opportunity to understand better how to program Intel 64 with C and assembly language through this book. The practical exercises are also significant. I had a chance to improve my C program understanding.

This book is an excellent guide to learning low-level programming languages.

FAQs

Many people have asked questions regarding C programming books and language. I will answer the most frequently asked questions below.

Which author’s book is best for C programming?

One of the most outstanding books for programmers that many people love is C Programming Absolute Beginner’s Guide. You can see a detailed review regarding this product in the section above.

What are a few free books for C?

There are free titles on the C language that you can refer to. I can give you names like The C Book, An Introduction to GCC, or style elements.

Is C language suitable for beginners?

Yes, C is a good programming language that a beginner should learn. Data space and keywords, the system’s syntax is not too complicated, and you can grasp it quickly and easily. It also gives you an excellent foundation to better understand other programming languages.

Can I learn C language in 10 days?

In 10 days, you can master the basics and have a basis to start using the C programming language in practice. However, to fully understand and master it, you will need a longer time.

Which are the best C Programming books?

The answer depends on each person’s perception. For me, C programming language is a work to be noticed. You can follow the 10 best products I mentioned above to find the best book for your learning path.

Conclusion

C is one of the most popular programming languages because of its high applicability and notable features. Good titles will be your inspirational and knowledgeable teachers in conquering this language.

I recommend looking up the Head First C: A Brain-Friendly Guide for beginners. It is the book that gives the most basic instructions for you.

The C Programming Language is also a classic book in the field with the knowledge you should take advantage of.

I hope you find a great book and quickly master the C language!