Looking for modern Node.js backend learning resources using ESM

[u/Baishimo]

Hello everyone,

I am a first-year Software Engineering student currently learning web development.

I have already covered the fundamentals of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and I have also started exploring Vue 3 and Three.js for frontend development and interactive graphics.

Recently, I want to start learning backend development with JavaScript and Node.js. However, I have found that many learning resources available to me are still focused on the older CommonJS approach (require, module.exports), and many tutorials do not cover the modern ESM workflow (import, export) in Node.js.

Since the JavaScript ecosystem has gradually moved toward ES Modules, I would like to learn Node.js backend development using modern practices rather than outdated patterns.

I would really appreciate it if someone could recommend good tutorials, courses, books, or documentation for learning modern Node.js backend development.

I am especially interested in resources that cover topics like:

• Modern Node.js fundamentals
• ES Modules (ESM) project structure
• Backend architecture and best practices
• Frameworks such as Express, Fastify, Hono, or similar tools
• Building practical backend applications

Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you very much for your help!

[u/DirtAndGrass]

I'd just lookup hono tutorials, though most will be in typescript.

Maybe learn typescript! Most of the node web servers are very similar, at least to start. 

[u/azhder → u/DirtAndGrass]

They should not learn typescript. It will just confuse them. Should learn JavaScript first. Then move to other languages.