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

Real Programming Scratch: Writing a C Compiler is a hands-on book that guides readers through building a compiler for a significant subset of C. It covers parsing, program analysis and x64 assembly code generation, with algorithms in pseudocode so you can implement the compiler in a language of your choice.

At a glance

Build a working compiler for a significant subset of C, adding features chapter by chapter.
Learn lexer and recursive-descent parser concepts, including conversion of C code into an abstract syntax tree.
Explore program analysis and generation of x64 assembly for operations, function calls and control flow.
Algorithms are presented in pseudocode, allowing implementation in a programming language of your choice.
Optimization topics include constant folding, dead store elimination and register allocation.

Price

$72.12Save 22%

Reference price: ~~$91.99~~

Price checked: Nov 13, 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

The project-based progression starts with a compiler for a simple C program and expands it incrementally.
Pseudocode avoids tying the compiler implementation to one programming language.
Combines compiler construction concepts with concrete x64 assembly code generation.

Technical specifications

7 specifications

Publication details
Publisher	No Starch Press
Publication date	Aug. 20 2024
Language	English
Print length	792 pages
ISBN-13	978-1718500426

Dimensions and installation
Weight listed	369 g
Dimensions	17.93 x 3.33 x 23.65 cm

What to know before buying

The description says no prior compiler-construction or assembly experience is needed, but it does not specify prerequisite programming knowledge or provide a syllabus beyond the listed topics.

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Programmers seeking a practical introduction to compiler construction through a substantial project.
Readers interested in C language parsing, program analysis, x64 code generation and optimization.
Developers who want pseudocode guidance that can be implemented in their preferred language.

Less suited to

Readers seeking a reference limited to C syntax or application programming rather than compiler construction.
Buyers who need a guide to a compiler target other than the described x64 assembly.

Writing a C Compiler: Build a Real Programming Language from Scratch · photo 2 — Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.4 / 5 · 73 ratings

5 stars68%68%
4 stars15%15%
3 stars12%12%
2 stars5%5%
1 star0%0%

Aggregate ratings lean positive, with most ratings in the five-star category, but a smaller share falls in the middle and lower categories. Without review comments, those figures cannot explain what readers liked or disliked, so use the detailed topic coverage and project approach to judge fit.

Frequently asked questions

What does the book teach?

It guides readers through building a compiler for a significant subset of C, covering lexing, parsing, program analysis, x64 assembly code generation and selected optimizations.

Do I need to know assembly or compiler construction first?

The listing says no prior experience with compiler construction or assembly code is needed. It does not specify broader programming prerequisites.

Can I implement the compiler in a language other than C?

The algorithms are described in pseudocode, and the listing says you can implement the compiler in whatever language you like.

How long is the book?

The listed print length is 792 pages.