[tultra]

Computer Networking: a Top Down approach by James Kurose and Keith Ross.

Computer Networking - a Top Down approach is a technical book, but oh boy what an awesome read it is. I've just recently obtained a BSc degree in Computer Science, and the course curriculum didn't paid much attention to computer networks. We mostly studied cryptography algos, but not really looked into networks protocols and such.

This book is hence filling the gaps I have in computer networks (I'm mostly interested in web dev/cloud architectures).

The only other technical book that comes close to it is "Operation Systems: three easy pieces" by Remzi and Andrea Arpaci-Dusseau. Another great read.

Now, in terms of fictions books, I just finished re-reading "The Shadow of the Wind" by Carlos Ruiz Zafón. It's a masterpiece, but I'm not sure if the author is widely known in english speaking countries.

[ParallelThread]

When you read technical books for fun, do you do the exercises and projects at the end of chapters? I have found that when I read and don't actually use the concepts learned, I tend to forget after some time.

[AB1908]

You may want to try converting those questions into byte (heh) sized flashcards and review them from time to time to make sure it sticks. Speaking of which, there's a book called Make It Stick. You might find that interesting as well.

[abysmallytall]

Probably not widely, but I've read Labyrinth of the Spirits by Zafón and it was utterly fantastic. (I know it's book 4 and do intend to read the others. I was at my local library and picked this up randomly. So glad I did!)