# Writing a C Compiler: Build a Real Programming Language from Scratch

Real Programming Scratch: Writing a C Compiler is a hands-on book about building a compiler for a significant subset of C. It walks through lexing, parsing, program analysis, x64 assembly generation and optimization, with algorithms presented in pseudocode so readers can implement them in a language of their choice.

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- Market: US
- Language: en-US
- Currency: USD
- Category: Books, Music & Hobbies > Books, Music & Movies > Books & Comics
- Price: 35.10 USD
- Previous price: 69.99 USD
- Discount: 50%
- Price checked: 2026-11-14T19:05:56.378Z
- Rating: 4.3 / 5
- Reviews: 78

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## At a glance

- Build a working compiler for a significant subset of C, adding features chapter by chapter.
- Covers lexing, recursive-descent parsing, abstract syntax trees and program analysis.
- Explains translating C constructs into x64 assembly, including arithmetic, function calls and control flow.
- Discusses constant folding, dead store elimination and register allocation.
- Algorithms are provided in pseudocode, allowing implementation in a language of the reader’s choice.

## Pros

- Project-based treatment connects compiler concepts to building a working compiler.
- The book covers both front-end topics and code generation and optimization.
- The pseudocode approach does not require implementing examples in a single specified language.

## Specifications

### Book details
- Publisher: No Starch Press
- Publication date: August 20, 2024
- Language: English
- Print length: 792 pages
- ISBN-10: 1718500424
- ISBN-13: 978-1718500426
### Dimensions and installation
- Weight listed: 13 ounces
- Dimensions: 7.06 x 1.31 x 9.31 inches

## Before you buy

- The description says no prior experience with compiler construction or assembly is needed, but it does not state prerequisites for programming or C. The compiler targets a significant subset of C, not necessarily the complete language.

## A good fit for

- Programmers who want to learn compiler construction by building a C compiler.
- Readers interested in lexing, parsing, program analysis and x64 code generation.
- Learners who prefer project-based explanations and want to implement algorithms in their preferred language.

## Less suited to

- Readers seeking a reference covering the complete C language or every compiler architecture.
- Buyers looking for a guide focused only on using an existing compiler rather than creating one.

## Customer feedback

The supplied evidence contains aggregate ratings but no written customer-feedback summary, so it does not establish what readers praised or criticized. The ratings are generally favorable but include a notable middle-rating share. Treat them as a broad impression rather than evidence about specific aspects such as the pseudocode, technical depth or suitability for a particular background.

## Frequently asked questions

### Does the book cover the complete C language?
The listing describes a compiler for a significant subset of C. It does not claim complete coverage of the language.
### Do I need prior compiler or assembly experience?
The description says no prior compiler-construction or assembly experience is needed. It does not specify programming-language prerequisites.
### Can I implement the compiler in a language other than C?
The algorithms are presented in pseudocode, and the description says readers can implement the compiler in whichever language they like.
### Which compiler topics are covered?
The listing names lexing, recursive-descent parsing, abstract syntax trees, program analysis, x64 assembly code generation and optimization techniques.

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## Add-ons

- [Crafting Interpreters](https://best-deals.pro/visit/writing-a-c-compiler-book)
- [Building a Debugger: Write a Native x64 Debugger From Scratch](https://best-deals.pro/visit/writing-a-c-compiler-book)

## Images

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