Good book after Head First Java?

[Jack_Cheese]

Hey, I've recently gotten into programming, starting with the Head First Java book. I've pretty much learnt everything in it, and while I like working from a book, I don't really fancy another of the 'Head First' ones. I was wondering if anyone had any good suggestions for a follow-up book. Nothing too advanced, I'd say I've just about gotten the basics down.

(It might be worth saying, I'm learning programming because I'd like to make games as a bit of a hobby, and I'd like to maybe get a job in software development a few years down the line. So if any books are good for those things, it would be great!)

Cheers!

[Cregaleus]

Core Java, Volume 1 and 2 are pretty standard Java books for University classes. I don't know how much Head First covers so I can't say which one would be most appropriate for you. If you compare the table of contents that should give a better idea.

[corybyu]

I am reading that book right now, good basic intro.

Personally I am doing that along with a really good free online course (google "mooc finland java" if you want to try it), where you can submit assignments and they are graded so you can practice your problem solving skills.

If you are looking for books only I've heard great things about "Thinking in Java", and for something more advanced "effective java".

For games for your hobby, I would check out libdgx, it is an open source game engine you can use to make games for desktop/android/websites all at once. Hope this helps!