Date on Database: Writings 2000-2006 This is a collection of writings by C.J. Date, one of the fathers of the relational model. It has a nice tribute to E.F. Codd, inventor of the relational model. If you are looking for tips and insights into relational databases on a higher level this is a solid read.

SQL and Relational Theory: How to Write Accurate SQL Code Another solid text from Date. This one helps you understand the theory so you can write effective real world code. It has lots of solid examples. It covers topics like granting access directly to the data or through views. How NULLS effect the answers returned by your queries. Advanced coverage of constraints. I’m currently reading this book again. I don’t think you could absorb all of the goodness this book has to offer in one pass.

Temporal Data & the Relational Model (The Morgan Kaufmann Series in Data Management Systems) If you are working with dates and time this book will teach you a new modeling technique. Unlike Domain Key Normal Form this builds on the previous Normalization rules and is a logical extension of them. It does use Tutorial D to explain its examples which is kind of a pain.

Database in Depth: Relational Theory for Practitioners Another fundamentals book that transcends any particular product line and gets to the heart of the relational model. It is a short but concise read and one I generally recommend to people wanting to expand their theoretical base.

Refactoring Databases: Evolutionary Database Design If you have ever had to refractor a database this book is for you. I’ve read and re-read this book over the last few years. It isn’t the easiest read in the world but it can help you apply what you have learned from the books above to your current database without having to start from scratch.

As always if you have any questions or want to suggest a book let me know!