7 Beginner Julia Programming Books to Build Your Skills

MIT professor and Julia co-creator Alan Edelman and other experts recommend these foundational Julia Programming books for newcomers.

Updated on June 28, 2025
We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page

Starting fresh with Julia programming can feel daunting, but the language's blend of power and simplicity invites newcomers to explore without intimidation. Julia’s ability to handle complex computations with elegant syntax makes it a compelling choice for learners eager to build solid programming foundations while tackling real-world problems.

Alan Edelman, a professor at MIT and one of Julia’s co-creators, understands these challenges firsthand. He recommends Julia High Performance by Avik Sengupta as a clear, example-driven guide that demystifies what makes Julia uniquely fast and efficient. Edelman's endorsement underscores the importance of mastering the language’s core concepts early on, setting you up for success.

While these seven beginner-friendly books offer excellent foundations, you might also consider creating a personalized Julia Programming book tailored exactly to your learning pace and goals. This approach ensures you build your skills with content that fits your unique background and interests.

Best for grasping Julia’s speed essentials
Alan Edelman, MIT professor and co-creator of the Julia Language, recommends this book for those new to Julia eager to grasp what makes it uniquely fast. He found himself challenged to explain Julia's performance until Avik Sengupta's clear, example-driven guide arrived. "Those who are new to Julia often ask me what makes it so special, or how it achieves such high performance..." His endorsement highlights how the book demystifies key concepts like JIT compilation, multiple dispatch, and CUDA GPU programming, making the language’s speed accessible. This perspective shows why you should consider this book if you're ready to deepen your Julia skills and join its thriving community.

Recommended by Alan Edelman

MIT Professor, Julia Language Co-creator

Those who are new to Julia often ask me what makes it so special, or how it achieves such high performance. Having to think on my feet in order to answer this question has proven challenging. This was the case, at least, until Avik Sengupta came along with the Julia High Performance book. Now all I have to do is tell the enquirers to read the book as it consists of just the right combination of details to answer their questions. In an easy-to-read concise set of chapters - most of which contain words like "performance" and "fast" - Avik takes you through examples that you can run yourself in order to see how fast and easy Julia is to use. There are computer science words that have become Julia words. It is a pleasure to learn these in a manner that is easy to follow. Just a few examples of this are "JIT", "Multiple Dispatch", "type system", "generated functions", "CUDA", and "SIMD". After learning about Julia's design, you will learn to measure performance. From there, you will appreciate Julia's type system. You will then master using arrays along with making fast function calls and fast numbers. Finally, you will learn to write parallel Julia programs. With Julia High Performance, you'll pick up the key essentials of Julia in no time. You can then join the friendly, fast growing, online community of Julia programmers. Welcome to the world of Julia! Read this book and you will soon join us in loving the Julia language. (from Amazon)

Julia High Performance book cover

by Avik Sengupta··You?

2019·218 pages·Julia Programming, Performance, Parallel Computing, GPU Acceleration, Type Systems

The breakthrough moment came when Avik Sengupta, drawing on his extensive background as Vice President of Engineering at Julia Computing and creator of complex trading systems, articulated the pathways to unlocking Julia's performance potential. This book guides you through Julia's type system, multiple dispatch, and GPU acceleration, showing exactly how these features translate into faster, more efficient code. You'll learn to analyze and improve your programs' speed and memory use, mastering parallel computing with threads and distributed clusters. It’s a solid fit if you already know basic Julia and want to advance toward building high-performance applications.

View on Amazon
Best for beginner Julia web developers
Ivo Balbaert, a seasoned lecturer in web programming with decades of development and teaching experience, authored this book to bridge Julia programming and practical web development. With a PhD in applied physics and a history of writing beginner-friendly programming guides, Balbaert draws on his expertise to make complex server-side development accessible. His focus on the Genie framework and clear explanations help you build from foundational concepts to interactive web dashboards, making it a strong choice for newcomers eager to expand their Julia skills into web applications.
2022·254 pages·Web Development, Julia Programming, Web Application Development, Server-Side, MVC Pattern

What started as a desire to simplify web development in Julia evolved into a detailed guide by Ivo Balbaert and Adrian Salceanu that walks you through building scalable, high-performance server-side applications using the Genie framework. You’ll explore key concepts like TCP-IP, HTTP protocols, and JSON data handling in Julia’s standard library, then apply them by creating a full MVC web app, adding REST APIs, and deploying interactive data dashboards with charts and filters. The book is tailored for beginner to intermediate Julia programmers eager to step confidently into web development without prior framework experience. If you're ready to move beyond basics and build maintainable, production-ready web applications in Julia, this book provides clear pathways to those skills.

View on Amazon
Best for custom learning pace
This AI-created book on Julia programming is designed to match your unique background and pace, making the learning journey less intimidating and more engaging. By focusing on the specific fundamentals you want to master and your current skill level, it removes the usual overwhelm that beginners face. This personalized approach means you get a clear, step-by-step guide that fits exactly what you need to build strong programming foundations and grow confident in Julia.
2025·50-300 pages·Julia Programming, Programming Fundamentals, Syntax Basics, Control Structures, Functions

This tailored introduction to Julia programming offers a step-by-step pathway designed specifically for beginners seeking a comfortable and confident start. It carefully unfolds the fundamentals of Julia, focusing on your individual pace and existing experience to minimize overwhelm. The book explores core programming concepts, syntax, and foundational tools, ensuring you build a solid understanding without unnecessary complexity. By tailoring content to your background and goals, it gently guides you beyond initial hurdles, empowering you to progress smoothly and with clarity. This personalized guide reveals the essentials of Julia programming in a way that matches your learning style, helping you develop a strong, customized base for further exploration.

Tailored Guide
Personalized Learning Path
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for math-focused Julia learners
Tobin A. Driscoll and Richard J. Braun, both professors of mathematics at the University of Delaware, bring deep expertise in numerical methods and scientific computing to this work. Their combined research and teaching experience, including contributions to open-source projects and extensive publication records, underpin the book’s accessible approach. They designed this edition specifically to help advanced undergraduates and professionals learn numerical computation through Julia, delivering a resource grounded in academic rigor and practical application.
Fundamentals of Numerical Computation: Julia Edition book cover

by Tobin A. Driscoll, RIchard J. Braun··You?

2022·614 pages·Numerical Analysis, Numerical Algorithms, Julia Programming, Linear Algebra, Root Finding

Drawing from their extensive experience as mathematics professors at the University of Delaware, Tobin A. Driscoll and Richard J. Braun crafted this book to bridge the gap between numerical methods and Julia programming. You’ll find a structured introduction to key numerical computation topics like linear algebra, root finding, and differential equations, all taught through Julia’s accessible syntax. The authors include over 160 Julia-coded examples and more than 600 exercises that mix mathematical theory with practical coding, making it clear how algorithms translate into working programs. This book suits advanced undergraduates and professionals eager to grasp numerical analysis through hands-on programming rather than abstract theory alone.

View on Amazon
Best for learning Julia design patterns
Tom Kwong, CFA, brings over 25 years of software engineering experience, primarily in financial services, to this deep dive into Julia design patterns. Holding an MS in computer science and the Chartered Financial Analyst® designation, Kwong leverages his background to teach beginners how to build high-performance, maintainable Julia applications. His work on open source packages and focus on practical design insights make this book a solid choice for those starting in Julia programming.
2020·532 pages·Julia Programming, Design Patterns, Software Architecture, Metaprogramming, Reusable Code

When Tom Kwong discovered Julia, he saw a chance to reshape how developers approach design patterns in this rising language. Drawing on over 25 years in software engineering and finance, he guides you through applying traditional and modern patterns to build scalable, efficient Julia applications. You’ll learn about modules, data types, metaprogramming, and how to avoid common pitfalls through anti-patterns, with examples that show you how to write code that’s reusable and maintainable. This book suits you if you’re a beginner or intermediate Julia programmer aiming to deepen your design skills for larger projects, not just syntax.

View on Amazon
Best for absolute programming beginners
Noel Kalicharan, who taught Computer Science at the University of the West Indies for over 40 years, brings unparalleled experience to this book. His deep understanding of beginner challenges informs a teaching style praised for its clarity and simplicity. You're guided through programming principles in Julia, crafted specifically for newcomers, ensuring you build a solid foundation with confidence.
2021·304 pages·Julia Programming, Programming, Software Development, Control Flow, Functions

When Noel Kalicharan started teaching programming, he recognized the challenge beginners face with complex languages. This book breaks down programming fundamentals using Julia, guiding you through writing your first program to mastering data structures like dictionaries and sets. You'll learn to handle numbers, decision-making with if-else statements, looping constructs, and array processing, all explained in a clear, approachable way with practical problems. If you're new to coding and want a gentle introduction that builds confidence step by step, this book is designed with your needs in mind.

View on Amazon
Best for custom learning pace
This AI-created book on practical numerical algorithms and Julia programming is designed based on your background and goals. You share your experience level and which numerical topics you want to focus on, and the book is created to fit your individual pace and comfort. This personalized approach helps prevent overwhelm by starting with foundational concepts and gradually introducing Julia applications tailored to your skills. It’s a learning experience crafted specifically for you to build confidence and mastery in numerical computing.
2025·50-300 pages·Julia Programming, Numerical Algorithms, Foundations, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations

This tailored book explores practical numerical algorithms with a clear focus on Julia applications designed for your unique background and goals. It presents concepts progressively, making complex numerical methods approachable and building your confidence through a comfortable, paced learning experience. The content is tailored to match your current skill level, ensuring foundational topics are explained without overwhelm, while advancing into Julia’s powerful capabilities for numerical computing. By focusing on your interests and learning pace, this personalized guide reveals how to implement essential numerical techniques in Julia effectively, unlocking the language’s potential for solving real-world computational problems. It’s crafted to help you deepen your understanding and apply Julia with clarity and ease.

Tailored Guide
Algorithm Application
1,000+ Learners
Best for scientific computing newcomers
Tommy Hogan is a passionate author and expert in language models and artificial intelligence, bringing a unique perspective to programming and scientific computing. His enthusiasm for technology fuels a beginner-friendly approach in this book, making Julia's high-performance capabilities accessible to newcomers. Hogan’s background in efficient language applications informs his clear explanations and practical focus, helping you unlock Julia’s potential for scientific innovation.
2023·203 pages·Julia Programming, Programming, Scientific Computing, Numerical Analysis, Statistical Computing

Tommy Hogan's expertise in language models and artificial intelligence shines through in this introduction to Julia, a language gaining traction for scientific computing. You’ll learn how Julia combines speed with simplicity, covering numerical analysis, statistical methods, and high-performance computing essentials. The book guides you through practical exercises and domain-specific libraries, making complex topics approachable for newcomers. If you're eager to explore scientific programming without getting bogged down by jargon, this book offers clear pathways to harness Julia’s capabilities effectively.

View on Amazon
Best for data science beginners in Julia
Oliver Lucas Jr is a seasoned programmer and educator with extensive experience in data science and Julia programming. Known for his ability to break down complex programming concepts into approachable lessons, Oliver crafted this beginner-friendly guide to help aspiring data scientists start with Julia from the ground up. His background in both coding and teaching uniquely positions him to deliver a book that balances foundational knowledge with practical application.
2024·79 pages·Julia Programming, Data Science, Statistical Modeling, Machine Learning, Data Wrangling

Oliver Lucas Jr, a seasoned programmer and educator, designed this book as a clear pathway for first-time learners to grasp Julia programming within the context of data science. You’ll learn everything from the basics—like data types and control flow—to more advanced topics such as statistical modeling and machine learning, all illustrated with practical examples. The book breaks down data wrangling and visualization using Julia’s libraries, enabling you to handle real-world datasets confidently. If you’re starting fresh or aiming to apply Julia specifically for data science tasks, this guide offers an accessible, focused introduction without overwhelming technical jargon.

View on Amazon

Begin Julia Programming, Tailored to You

Build confidence with personalized guidance without overwhelming complexity.

Custom learning paths
Focused skill building
Efficient knowledge gain

Thousands of Julia enthusiasts started with personalized foundations

Julia Starter Blueprint
Numerical Code Secrets
Web Code Formula
Data Science Mastery

Conclusion

This collection of seven Julia Programming books covers a spectrum of foundational topics — from core syntax and performance optimization to web development, design patterns, scientific computing, and data science applications. Each book caters to those starting out, providing clear explanations and practical examples to build your confidence step by step.

If you’re completely new to programming, Julia by Noel Kalicharan offers a gentle introduction to essential concepts. For a math-oriented journey, Fundamentals of Numerical Computation bridges theory with Julia’s syntax. As you advance, Julia High Performance and Hands-On Design Patterns and Best Practices with Julia deepen your understanding of efficient coding and software design.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Julia Programming book that fits your exact needs, interests, and goals to craft a learning path just for you. Remember, building a strong foundation early sets you up for success in mastering Julia’s powerful capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with Julia by Noel Kalicharan if you're new to programming, or Julia High Performance by Avik Sengupta to understand Julia’s unique speed. These provide clear, beginner-friendly introductions that build a solid foundation.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Julia Programming?

No, these picks are selected for accessibility. For example, Julia Programming For Data Science breaks down concepts gently, while Web Development with Julia and Genie guides beginners into practical applications.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with foundational books like Julia and Fundamentals of Numerical Computation, then progress to specialized topics such as web development or design patterns to deepen your skills.

Should I start with the newest book or a classic?

Focus on the book that best matches your learning goals. Newer titles often incorporate latest tools, but classics like Julia High Performance remain invaluable for grasping core concepts.

Do I really need any background knowledge before starting?

No prior experience is needed. Books like Julia and Julia Programming For Data Science assume no background and guide you through basics patiently and clearly.

Can personalized Julia Programming books supplement these expert guides?

Yes! Personalized books complement expert recommendations by matching your unique pace, background, and goals. Consider creating a tailored Julia Programming book for a customized learning experience.

📚 Love this book list?

Help fellow book lovers discover great books, share this curated list with others!