2023 - Books that are worth you time?

Introduction

As a Data Engineer, it’s crucial to constantly improve your skills and knowledge to stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s working with large data sets, building efficient data pipelines, or collaborating with a team, there are many different aspects to consider. To help you succeed, I’ve put together a list of books that cover a range of topics, from culture and team building to Python and SQL.

Each of the books I’ve selected offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you become a better Data Engineer. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your coding skills, learn how to effectively communicate with your team, or improve your organization’s data processes, there’s something here for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the books that can help you take your skills to the next level.

Everyone Culture

The first book on our list is “Everyone Culture: Deliberately Developmental Organizations” by Diane G. Strauss. This book explores the idea of creating a culture in which everyone can grow and develop, both professionally and personally. The author offers practical advice on how to build a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages individuals to take risks and pursue their passions.

The Culture Code

For Data Engineers who work in a team setting, “The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups” by Daniel Coyle is a must-read. The book provides an in-depth look at the practices and principles that drive effective and productive teams. Through real-life examples and expert insights, the author demonstrates how to build trust, foster collaboration, and create a strong sense of shared purpose.

Legacy

Another book that focuses on team building is “Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life” by James Kerr. This book explores the culture and philosophy of the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team, widely regarded as one of the most successful sports teams in history. The author examines the key principles that have made the All Blacks so successful, and how these principles can be applied to any team or organization, including those in the field of Data Engineering.

Small Giants

“Small Giants: Companies That Choose to Be Great Instead of Big” by Bo Burlingham offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be a successful company. The book features inspiring stories of companies that have chosen to prioritize values, culture, and community over growth and scale. For Data Engineers who are passionate about working in an organization that prioritizes the well-being of its employees, this is a must-read.

Accelerate

“Accelerate: The Science of Lean Software and DevOps: Building and Scaling High Performing Technology Organizations” by Nicole Forsgren, Jez Humble, and Gene Kim is another book that is relevant for Data Engineers. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the practices and tools that enable organizations to deliver high-quality software quickly and efficiently. The authors offer practical advice on how to optimize software delivery processes, automate testing, and create a culture of continuous improvement.

The Data Warehouse Toolkit

Moving on to more technical topics, “The Data Warehouse Toolkit: The Definitive Guide to Dimensional Modeling” by Ralph Kimball and Margy Ross is a comprehensive guide to dimensional modeling, an approach to data warehousing that is widely used in the industry. The authors provide a step-by-step guide to designing and implementing data warehouses, and offer practical tips and best practices for working with large data sets.

Fluent Python

For Data Engineers looking to improve their Python skills, “Fluent Python: Clear, Concise, and Effective Programming” by Luciano Ramalho is a great place to start. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the Python programming language, with a focus on best practices and efficient coding. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced Python programmer, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you become a better coder.

Data Pipelines with Apache Airflow

“Data Pipelines with Apache Airflow” by Maxime Beauchemin is another must-read for Data Engineers. The book provides a comprehensive overview of Apache Airflow, a platform for building and managing data pipelines. The author offers practical advice on how to use Apache Airflow to automate data workflows, monitor job status, and troubleshoot issues.

Storytelling with Data

Last but not least, “Storytelling with Data: A Data Visualization Guide for Business Professionals” by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic is a great resource for Data Engineers who want to communicate their data insights effectively. The book provides a step-by-step guide to designing and creating data visualizations that tell a compelling story. The author offers practical tips and best practices for creating