Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science
	The Weizmann Institute of Science

Recommended Books

Thinking in Java - Bruce Eckel
The best introduction to Java I am aware of, although it does require a (very) basic understanding of programming. Note that an electronic version is available for free at the authors site.

Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs - Abelson & Sussman
The Introduction to Computer Science course book at MIT, it provides an excellent transition from math to programming, using a version of LISP called Scheme. While not being common in the industry, I feel that learning to program in Scheme is of value to any programmer, because it enforces different models of thought then the ones used in industrial programming languages (C, Java etc.), and different models of thought is what seperates a code-monkey from a real programmer.

Introduction to Algorithms - Cormen, Leiserson, Rivest, Stein
The bible of Algorithms and Data Structures. No undergraduate program of Computer Science (that I know of) doesn't include it in its curriculum. A must have on the shelf of every programmer and Computer Scientist.

Introduction to the Theory of Computation - Michael Sipser
In my opinion, the best book ever written on Computer Science - Not just because the subject of computability is in the foundations of the field and a must-know for every Computer Scientist or Programmer, but also because it is especially well-written. While remaining short and concise, it provides excellent explanations, and gives proof ideas before the actual proofs (a habit I believe should become mandatory to all mathematically oriented texts).

Object Oriented Software Construction - Bertnard Meyer
Excellent introduction to the theory behind Object Oriented Programming. Had a profound influence on the way I understand and implement it.

Sensation and Perception - Wolfe et al.
An excellent introduction to the Human Sensation and Perception systems. Despite being a graduate level Psychology or Biology course book, it is written such that it is understandable and enjoyable by regular human beings, and even Computer Scientists :)

Sophie's World - Jostein Gaarder
Sophie's world is a story-oriented Introduction to Philosophy course. It is very entertaining, and yet quite comprehensive, visiting many different classic philosophical views and briefly introducing them. One of the very few books I have ever read more then once, and the only one I have read cover to cover twice in a row.

Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions - Edwin A. Abbott
Breaking the boundaries of our imagination: This classic reminds us that our ability to percieve the world is never complete. A must read for any mathematician or physicist, but also highly recommended for any thinking person. Note that a free version is available online.

Who Moved my Cheese - Spencer Johnson & Kenneth Blanchard
The concept is simple, the book is short, but the lesson is valuable. I found this book inspiring, although some find it trivial - I still highly recommend it, great mental value for time and money.

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