Curated resources that shaped my journey as a Backend Engineer and Docker Captain. Each item includes author/source, link, and why it matters to me.

Backend Engineering

Architecture Patterns

  • Designing Data-Intensive Applications by Martin Kleppmann [book] - The bible for modern data systems design. Essential for understanding distributed systems and data architectures.
  • Microservices Patterns by Chris Richardson [book] - Comprehensive guide to microservices architecture patterns and anti-patterns.
  • Building Microservices by Sam Newman [book] - Practical guide to designing and building microservices effectively.

Performance & Scalability

  • Systems Performance by Brendan Gregg [book] - Essential for understanding system performance and debugging at scale.
  • High Performance Browser Networking by Ilya Grigorik [book] - Deep dive into networking performance that applies to backend systems too.
  • Database Internals by Alex Petrov [book] - Understanding how databases work internally is crucial for performance optimization.

Docker & Containers

Official Documentation

Learning Resources

  • Kubernetes Up & Running by Kelsey Hightower [book] - Best practical introduction to Kubernetes operations.
  • Container Security by Liz Rice [book] - Essential security practices for containerized applications.
  • Docker Deep Dive by Nigel Poulton [book] - Comprehensive understanding of Docker internals.

Productivity & Tools

Development Tools

  • Go [doc] - My preferred backend language. Simple, efficient, and perfect for microservices.
  • LocalStack [doc] - Essential for local AWS development without costs or complexity.
  • Docker Model Runner [doc] - Streamlines ML model deployment workflows.

Productivity Methods

  • Atomic Habits by James Clear [book] - Changed how I approach daily productivity and habit formation.
  • Deep Work by Cal Newport [book] - Essential for maintaining focus in a distraction-filled world.
  • Getting Things Done by David Allen [book] - Systematic approach to task management that actually works.

3D Printing

Software & Tools

  • PrusaSlicer [doc] - My go-to slicer for reliable 3D prints. Open source and community-driven.
  • Cura [doc] - Excellent alternative slicer with great community support.
  • Fusion 360 [doc] - Powerful CAD software for 3D modeling and design.

Learning Resources

  • Prusa Knowledge Base [doc] - Comprehensive troubleshooting and best practices for 3D printing.
  • Make: 3D Printing by Mark Frauenfelder [book] - Great introduction to 3D printing for beginners.

Software Engineering

  • Clean Code by Robert C. Martin [book] - Timeless principles for writing maintainable code.
  • The Pragmatic Programmer by David Thomas & Andrew Hunt [book] - Practical wisdom for software development.
  • Code Complete by Steve McConnell [book] - Comprehensive guide to software construction.

Career & Growth

  • Staff Engineer by Will Larson [book] - Essential for senior engineering roles and leadership.
  • The Manager’s Path by Camille Fournier [book] - Understanding engineering management and leadership.
  • Accelerate by Nicole Forsgren, Jez Humble, Gene Kim [book] - Data-driven approach to DevOps and software delivery performance.
View my GitHub