I loved his articles in the ACM. They are collected in a book called Programming Pearls (https://www.amazon.com/Programming-Pearls-2nd-Jon-Bentley/dp...) I also liked his second book More:Programming Pearls (https://www.amazon.com/More-Programming-Pearls-Confessions-C...)

Some of the same articles, but with updates and added reader comments.

(I posted Amazon, but there is a ton on the used market)

OP might also be interested in Bentley's book, Programming Pearls:

https://www.amazon.com/Programming-Pearls-2nd-Jon-Bentley/dp...

Recommended resources to consider:

* Code Complete https://www.amazon.com/Code-Complete-Practical-Handbook-Cons...

* Programming Pearls https://www.amazon.com/Programming-Pearls-2nd-Jon-Bentley/dp...

* Pragmatic Programmer https://www.amazon.com/Pragmatic-Programmer-Journeyman-Maste...

Take heart. The interview process is designed to say no. A common anecdote at Google goes like this: "I persuaded the best programmer I know to apply at Google. And we rejected him." These companies say no to all kinds of talented people every day.

Apply again next time you are looking for a job, if Amazon and Google really are the sort of companies you want to work for.

Think back on your interviews and figure out what you did wrong, then study up on that.

And next time, prepare very carefully, with a focus on algorithms and data structures. I would use this book, although it's a bit dated now: https://www.amazon.com/Data-Structures-Algorithms-Alfred-Aho...

This one may also be useful: https://www.amazon.com/Programming-Pearls-2nd-Jon-Bentley/dp...