Let’s explore the best Linux books of 2025
If you’re diving into the world of Linux—whether as a complete beginner, an aspiring system administrator, or preparing for certifications like LFCS, RHCSA, or Linux+—having the right books at your fingertips can make all the difference.
We’ve curated a list of the top-selling Linux books on Amazon, all rated 4 stars and above by real readers and professionals. These carefully selected titles cover everything from the fundamentals of the Linux command line to advanced topics like shell scripting, security, and certification prep.
📚 Let’s explore the best Linux books of 2025!
1. The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition by William Shotts
Description: A comprehensive introduction to the Linux command line, guiding readers from basic commands to writing full programs in Bash.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Price: $23.28
Review: “Awesome book. Very well written. The author really knows Linux in-depth and is able to explain many important topics in an easy-to-understand way.”
2. How Linux Works, 3rd Edition by Brian Ward
Description: This book delves into the inner workings of Linux, explaining its components and how they function together.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Price: $31.88
Review: “This book is a must-have for anyone serious about understanding Linux.”
3. Linux Bible by Christopher Negus
Description: An extensive guide covering everything from basic Linux usage to advanced system administration.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Price: $38.00
Review: “Comprehensive and well-structured. A go-to reference for Linux professionals.”
4. The Ultimate Linux Shell Scripting Guide by Donald A. Tevault
Description: A hands-on guide to mastering shell scripting, covering automation, system administration, and more.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Price: $39.99
Review: “An essential resource for anyone looking to automate tasks using shell scripts.”
5. Linux for Beginners by Jason Cannon
Description: An easy-to-follow guide for those new to Linux, covering the basics of the operating system and command line.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Price: $24.99
Review: “Perfect for beginners. Clear explanations and practical examples.”
6. Shell Scripting: How to Automate Command Line Tasks Using Bash by Jason Cannon
Description: Focuses on automating command line tasks using Bash scripting, suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Price: $21.02
Review: “A practical guide with real-world examples. Highly recommended.”
7. Red Hat RHCSA 9 Cert Guide: EX200 by Sander van Vugt
Description: A comprehensive study guide for the Red Hat RHCSA 9 certification exam, including practice questions and labs.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Price: $44.99
Review: “Well-structured and thorough. A must-have for RHCSA candidates.”
8. CompTIA Linux+ Study Guide: Exam XK0-005 by Richard Blum
Description: An in-depth study guide aligned with the latest CompTIA Linux+ exam objectives, covering system management, security, and troubleshooting.
Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Price: $36.00
Review: “Covers all the exam topics in a clear and organized format. Great for self-study.”
9. Mastering Linux Administration by Alexandru Calcatinge
Description: Learn how to administer Linux systems with real-world examples and detailed explanations, ideal for intermediate to advanced users.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Price: $49.99
Review: “A complete and modern guide to Linux system administration.”
10. Linux Basics for Hackers by OccupyTheWeb
Description: Tailored for cybersecurity beginners, this book teaches Linux basics through the lens of ethical hacking and penetration testing.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Price: $24.95
Review: “Excellent intro for anyone wanting to get into Linux for security purposes.”
11. Linux Administration: A Beginner’s Guide, Eighth Edition by Wale Soyinka
Description: This is an excellent starting point for aspiring Linux system administrators. It covers installation, configuration, system management, and troubleshooting.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Price: $40.00
Review: “It’s well-structured and informative, perfect for those new to Linux administration.”
12. The Linux Programming Interface by Michael Kerrisk
Description: A deep dive into Linux system programming with 155+ example programs. A staple for developers who want to write software for Linux.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Price: $58.99
Review: “Extremely comprehensive and technical—definitely a reference book worth owning.”
13. Linux Pocket Guide by Daniel J. Barrett
Description: A concise reference packed with Linux commands and their uses. Perfect for quick lookup and on-the-go problem solving.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Price: $17.99
Review: “Fits in your pocket, but full of gold. Every Linux user should own this guide.”
14. Introduction to Linux: A Hands-On Guide by Machtelt Garrels
Description: A beginner-friendly, hands-on book for getting started with Linux, featuring exercises and practice sessions for new users.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Price: $22.00
Review: “A must-have for anyone just entering the Linux world with practical examples.”
15. Linux Kernel Development by Robert Love
Description: This book explains the design and implementation of the Linux kernel, ideal for advanced programmers and OS enthusiasts.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Price: $52.99
Review: “One of the best technical overviews of the Linux kernel. Highly detailed and insightful.”
16. Advanced Bash Scripting Guide by Mendel Cooper
Description: This guide provides in-depth coverage of Bash scripting for automation, ideal for experienced users.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Price: $34.95
Review: “Great for automation and power users. Covers edge cases and advanced logic.”
17. UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook by Evi Nemeth
Description: Widely regarded as one of the best system administration books available, this is a complete guide for managing Linux systems at scale.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Price: $69.99
Review: “An excellent comprehensive book that every sysadmin should keep on the shelf.”
18. Linux Command Line and Shell Scripting Bible by Richard Blum
Description: Covers Linux command line essentials, Bash scripting, and system administration tasks—great for beginners and pros alike.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Price: $42.00
Review: “It has everything from basics to advanced scripts, all explained well with examples.”
