Lisp in Small Pieces

By Christian Queinnec

Lisp in Small Pieces is a classic and highly influential text on the theory and implementation of the Lisp programming language. Published by Cambridge University Press, this authoritative work provides a deep, systematic exploration of interpreters, compilers, continuations, environments, and abstract machines using Lisp as the central case study.

Widely regarded as a foundational reference in programming language theory, the book deconstructs Lisp implementations step by step—making complex concepts in semantics, evaluation strategies, and language design accessible through rigorous yet practical exposition. It is extensively used in advanced computer science courses and research.

What This Book Does

This book equips readers with a deep understanding of how Lisp works “under the hood,” explaining the construction of interpreters and compilers while illuminating broader principles of programming language design and implementation.

Key Features

• Step-by-step construction of Lisp interpreters and compilers
• Clear treatment of environments, closures, and continuations
• Exploration of abstract machines and evaluation strategies
• Strong theoretical grounding with practical implementation insight
• Classic reference in programming language semantics

Who Should Use This Book?

• Graduate students in computer science
• Researchers in programming languages and compilers
• Advanced Lisp programmers
• Instructors teaching language implementation
• Software engineers interested in language design

Why It’s Essential

• Considered a classic in programming language theory
• Builds deep intuition for interpreters and compilers
• Connects Lisp to broader concepts in computer science
• Trusted reference in academia worldwide

A foundational text for understanding Lisp and programming language implementation.
Order today from BooksGoat and master Lisp from the inside out.

Product Details

• ISBN-13: 9780521545662
• Author: Christian Queinnec
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Format: Paperback
• Condition: New
• Availability: In Stock
• Price: $— (Free Shipping)

Table of Contents (Highlights)

• Foundations of Lisp Evaluation
• Environment Models and Closures
• Interpreters and Abstract Machines
• Continuation-Passing Style
• Compilation Techniques
• Advanced Control Structures

FAQs

• Is this book beginner-friendly?
  No. It is intended for advanced students and professionals with prior programming experience.
• Does it focus on Lisp only?
  Primarily yes, but the concepts apply broadly to language design and implementation.
• Is this a standard academic reference?
  Yes. It is widely cited and used in graduate-level courses.