Erik,
I read the Lord of the Rings books years ago, and loved them.
and “ Watership Down”, i have read multiple times, the wabbits on this board should read it.
And all the ” Dune” books.
and on another theme.. I have read most of Winston Churchills books.
And Carl Sagan books…
” Cad..Fortran..”. Etc.. I suffered through them when they first came out.. when the computer screen was black with a yellowish script…yes….back in the very old times 
those programs are now so basic to what you are dealing with. I would not know how to begin. Good for you!
a friend of ours has just had a book published, It is called .”.ARE-4”
I know.. an odd title, but you will understand it as you read the book.
it will really make you think! I loved it, and am about to read it again. He is a very smart man.
back to the books..lol