Here you’ll find a list of my latest book recommendations that I have found to be most valuable. All of these are kept on my desk/eReader and I generally reference them weekly. Be sure to check back often as this is a rolling list!
Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Bible
By Paul Nielsen and Uttam Parui
This is the equivalent to a physicians desk reference for Database Administrators. I keep this on my desk at all times because there’s nothing this book doesn’t have regarding SQL Server 2008.
Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Internals
By Kalen Delaney, Paul S. Randal, Kimberly L. Tripp, Connor Cunningham, Adam Mechanic
Ever wanted to take the deepest dive possible into the inner workings of SQL Server? Then this book is for you! This book is my go to for any of those “why does SQL Server . . . ” questions.
Code Complete
By Steve McConnell
Although not entirely a database book, this book will make you a better coder, developer, and all-around engineer. McConnell’s code examples and real-world scenarios will make you think twice before writing bad code again.
SQL and Relational Theory
By C.J. Date
A practical guide to the theoretical aspects of coding in T-SQL. This book will give you some of the core in’s and out’s about the Transact SQL language as well as compare the different styles and flavors of SQL.

SQL: The Complete Reference
By James R. Groff, Paul N. Weinberg
A syntactical guide to the ANSI, non-ANSI, and other assorted implementations of the T-SQL language.

Professional Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Integration Services
By Brian Knight, Erik Veerman, Grant Dickinson, Douglas Hinson, Darren Herbold
Written for database professionals, this book will take you through from basics of SQL Server Integration Services to the more advanced and practical applications of the product.
Professional Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services
By Paul Turley, Thiago Silva, Bryan C. Smith, Ken Withee
Another good resource, this book will provide everything you need build and design your own SSRS reports as well as how to implement a reporting solution with a SQL Server back-end.

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