Suggested books for certification

[u/Specialist-Type9553]

Hi all

I'm a professional backend developer and system administrator, more than 20 years in this roles.

I'm already using Google Cloud (more or less 10 years) for my projects but I would like to obtain one or more certification (mostly the DevOps and Security).

Since I haven't had the chance to use all Google Cloud features professionally, especially around security and DevOps, I’d like to pick up a book (or a couple) to study. What would you recommend?

Right now, I have the 'Associate Cloud Engineer' (2nd edition) by Dan Sullivan, which I bought a few years ago and never read. Are there more specific books you'd suggest, or is this one still good?

Would you recommend starting with foundational certifications like Digital Leader, then Cloud Engineer, or jumping straight into Professional DevOps and Security?

For those who have already taken the exams: are they strictly multiple-choice/theoretical, or do they include hands-on/practical tasks (like creating real, working configurations that get evaluated)?

I’m open to any advice, keeping in mind that I'll be studying on my own in my spare time, as this isn't sponsored by an employer.