For programmers, the perfect book is a source of reference, that provides examples and acts as a stepping-stone that raises you to the next level.

FORBES: Dummy books are for dummies

On one floor, about two dozen editorial staff write book reviews, while down a hall perhaps as many programmers keep the software running.

ECONOMIST: Electronic commerce

Microsoft Press has issued a book called Writing Secure Code, now required reading in the company's crash security courses for programmers.

FORBES: Can You Trust Your Computer?