The Serverless Handbook
FreeDive into modern backend. Understand any backend.
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About The Serverless Handbook
The Serverless Handbook is a 360-page guide for frontend engineers who want to understand and build modern backends using serverless technologies. Authored by Swizec, it covers cloud functions, lambdas, queues, databases, REST vs GraphQL, architecture principles, and more, with a focus on high-level concepts rather than step-by-step tutorials. The book includes hand-drawn diagrams, color illustrations, six full projects, and is available both digitally ($15) and in paperback on Amazon.
Key Features
360 pages, 19 chapters, 6 full projects
Designed specifically for frontend engineers
Covers serverless concepts: lambdas, queues, databases, REST, GraphQL, monitoring, performance
Hand-drawn diagrams and beautiful chapter art
Available as digital download ($15) and paperback on Amazon
Free chapter available for preview
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of serverless concepts and best practices
- Focus on high-level ideas, tactics, and mindsets, not just tutorials
- Beautifully designed with color illustrations and hand-drawn diagrams
- Tailored for frontend engineers transitioning to backend work
- Offers both digital and paperback formats
Cons
- May be too conceptual for those seeking step-by-step tutorials (as it is not a cookbook)
- Currently only available in English
Best For
Learning serverless backend development from scratchBuilding production-grade backends as a frontend engineerUnderstanding modern backend architecture and tradeoffsReference handbook for troubleshooting and design decisions
FAQ
Who is the Serverless Handbook for?
It is designed for frontend engineers who are diving into backend development and want to understand serverless concepts and build real backends.
What topics are covered?
The handbook covers getting started, serverless pros and cons, choosing providers, developer experience, architecture principles, lambdas, queues, databases, REST APIs, GraphQL, monitoring, performance, and more.
Is the book available in print or digital?
Yes, it is available on Amazon (paperback) and as a digital download for $15. A free chapter is also available.