In my early career, one of the most important books I picked up was Letters to a New Developer by Dan Moore. Unlike traditional books, this one is a unique collection of letters, each filled with insights, reflections, and practical advice for anyone new to the tech world. The beauty of this format is that you don’t have to read it all at once—you can pick up a letter or two each day, getting just the right dose of wisdom to carry you forward.
Dan Moore’s approach in this book is remarkably relatable. He doesn’t just tell you what to do; he shares his own experiences, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. Each letter feels like personal advice from a mentor who genuinely cares about helping you grow as both a developer and a professional.
Who is it for?
I think it’s important and a must-read for early careers and specially students, but it’s not limited to those No matter how experienced you are , you will enjoy this book a lot, and you will learn a lot from it (and because it’s a series of letters you can just skip the ones that you already know about)
How This Book Helped Me
The journey in tech can feel overwhelming, but each letter offered guidance on real-world challenges—like asking for help, handling imposter syndrome, and building confidence. The letters on taking ownership and balancing learning with delivering results were especially impactful, helping me shape my approach to work and continuous learning.
Because the book is structured as a series of letters, it was easy to integrate reading into my daily routine. I could go through a letter whenever I needed some fresh perspective or a bit of motivation, which made the book feel both practical and approachable.
Why This Book Stands Out
What makes Letters to a New Developer truly special is its humble, conversational tone. The book shares advice without lecturing, which makes each letter feel encouraging and authentic. The letters cover essential soft skills and mindsets and EVEN FINANCIAL , areas often overlooked in technical resources but crucial for anyone building a long-term career in development.
If you’re searching for a resource that offers both technical and personal growth advice, this book is a gem. Its structure makes it easy to read as much or as little as you want each day, and the lessons are timeless.