What is Reddit's opinion of Building Proofs: A Practical Guide?
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Do. the. math.

Seriously. If you understand the math, then you understand the algorithms. Don't shit on theory because theory is the only reason this stuff works anyway. Understanding individual algorithms is important, but it's way better to know how to treat problems in mathematical contexts: that's the gateway to creatively solving problems. If you start working at the math now, your foundation will me far stronger than others' as you continue in the field. I'd recommend Algorithm Design by Jon Kleinberg and Éva Tardos for learning about algorithms and Building Proofs: a Practical Guide by Suely Oliveira and Dave Stewart for learning how to prove things. Also, definitely take advantage of StackExchange.

Also, don't worry so much about your peers and how much "better" they are. Find what things you're interested in, dedicate yourself to those things, and go from there. Trying to game out how you stack up against your peers is a dead end and will only lead to impostor syndrome.