Did you know that over 300 books on AI and ML were published in 2023? 🤯 That's a lot to get through!
But don't sweat it. I've got the definitive list of 22 must-reads for 2024. 📚 We're talking everything from neural networks to deep learning algorithms.
With AI and ML continuing their staggering pace of advancement, making sense of this complex landscape is impossible without the right reading guides.
That is why I have compiled the 22 best books on AI and machine learning in 2024 – to be your definitive reading list for navigating this technology explosion.
From neural networks to deep learning algorithms, this comprehensive compilation features acclaimed titles like “Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach”, “AI Superpowers”, and “The AI Revolution in Medicine”.
Covering everything from fundamental concepts to cutting-edge techniques in AI, these authoritative books will expand your knowledge.
So, get ready to get into the inner workings of these intriguing technologies!
As AI and ML continue their $200 billion march by the end of 2024, keeping up with the curve is crucial – and this reading list is the perfect launch pad.
🔥 Ready to upgrade your knowledge and stay ahead in the AI and ML game?
Quick Overview of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are the twin engines driving the current technological revolution. AI, the broader concept, refers to machines designed to act intelligently like humans, whereas ML is a subset of AI that equips machines with the ability to learn from data and improve over time without being explicitly programmed.
The synergy between AI and ML is transforming industries, from healthcare, where predictive analytics can save lives, to finance, where it can detect fraud and automate trading.
Major technology companies today are also using AI and machine learning to develop innovative products and services like recommendation engines, predictive analytics, self-driving vehicles, and more.
As AI and ML are becoming the leading force in this emerging world, staying abreast of the latest developments is crucial. Reading the latest books on these topics is the best way to stay up-to-date on new developments and career opportunities in the AI field.
Understanding the Fundamentals
Understanding the fundamentals is key to mastery in any field, providing a strong foundation for advanced learning. Fundamentals are the basic principles or “building blocks” upon which more complex knowledge is built. This is true across various disciplines, including linear algebra, statistical learning, and neural networks.
Linear algebra, a branch of mathematics, is crucial in solving real-world problems in various fields. It deals with vector spaces, matrix operations, and linear transformations. It's widely applied in computer graphics, engineering, and statistics, among others. For instance, in computer graphics, 3D transformations of objects can be represented using matrices, enabling the rendering of realistic scenes in video games and virtual reality environments.
Statistical learning is vital in managing and understanding complex data sets. It involves the use of statistical methods to understand, interpret, and make predictions from data. Key concepts include linear regression, tree-based models, and resample methods such as cross-validation and bootstrapping. Mastery of these methods can lead to more accurate predictions and better decision-making.
Neural networks, a core component of deep learning, can learn from data and adapt their behavior through a process called training. This makes them well-suited for tasks such as image and speech recognition, natural language processing, and predictive analysis. Advanced topics such as radial-basis function networks and reinforcement learning add to the versatility of neural networks, making them invaluable for tackling complex and data-intensive tasks in today's AI-driven world.
What are the Best Books on AI and ML in 2024?
Here, I will present you the list of 22 Best AI and ML books available in 2024 to help you bridge the gap with in-depth knowledge, insights from top experts in the field, and a comprehensive understanding of these complex subjects:
| Best AI & ML Books | Pricing | Ratings |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Artificial Intelligence Basics | $22.59 | 4.3/5 (Amazon) |
| 2. Artificial Intelligence A Modern Approach | $70 | 4.5/5 (Amazon) |
| 3. Competing in the Age of AI | $22.31 | 4.5/5 (Amazon) |
| 4. Faith in the Age of AI | $18.59 | 4.7/5 (Amazon) |
| 5. 5-superintelligence-paths-dangers-strategies | $13.09 | 4.4/5 (Amazon) |
| 6. The Business Case for AI | $21.99 | 4.4/5 (Amazon) |
| 7. AI Superpowers | $13.59 | 4.1/5 (Amazon) |
| 8. The Age of AI | $15.19 | 4.1/5 (Amazon) |
| 9. Life 3.0 | $15.33 | 4.4/5 (Amazon) |
| 10. Generative AI: The Future of Everything | $17.95 | 5/5 (Amazon) |
| 11. Genius Makers | $13.99 | 4.6/5 (Amazon) |
| 12. Power and Prediction | $18.29 | 4.3/5 (Amazon) |
| 13. AI and Machine Learning for Coders | $38.49 | 4.5/5 (Amazon) |
| 14. AI 2041: Ten Visions for Our Future | $21.99 | 4.4/5 (Amazon) |
| 15. Artificial Intelligence for Humans | $22.73 | 4.0/5 (Amazon) |
| 16. The Sentiment Machine | $39.99 | 4.3/5 (Amazon) |
| 17. The AI Revolution in Medicine | $24.14 | 4.3/5 (Amazon) |
| 18. Human + Machine | $18.59 | 4.4/5 (Amazon) |
| 19. Applied Artificial Intelligence | $24.95 | 4.0/5 (Amazon) |
| 20. Responsible AI in the Enterprise | $44.99 | 5/5 (Amazon) |
| 21. Scary Smart | $14.99 | 4.4/5 (Amazon) |
| 22. 2084 | $19.99 | 4.6/5 (Amazon) |
1. Artificial Intelligence Basics: A Non-Technical Introduction
“Artificial Intelligence Basics: A Non-Technical Introduction” is a comprehensive guide written by Tom Taulli. The book provides an engaging, non-technical introduction to key concepts in artificial intelligence such as machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and robotics.
It is designed to equip readers with a fundamental understanding of AI and its impact on various industries, including transportation, healthcare, and financial services.
The book is particularly useful for readers without a technical background, such as managers, who are looking to understand AI to evaluate solutions.
Pricing:
The book is priced at $22.59.
2. Artificial Intelligence A Modern Approach
“Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach” (AIMA) is a detailed textbook that provides an up-to-date introduction to the theory and practice of artificial intelligence (AI).
Authored by Stuart J. Russell and Peter Norvig, this book is widely recognized as a foundational resource in the field of AI, adopted by over 1500 schools worldwide.
It offers a unified view of AI, synthesizing what is currently known into a common framework.
The book is designed to be accessible to a broad audience, from beginners to experts, providing in-depth coverage of both basic and advanced AI concepts.
Pricing:
The current price for the paperback edition of “Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach” is $70.
3. Competing in the Age of AI
“Competing in the Age of AI” explores the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reshaping business strategies and leadership.
Authored by Harvard Business School professors Marco Iansiti and Karim R. Lakhani, the book delves into the impact of AI on both digital and traditional firms. It provides a roadmap for navigating the new challenges and responsibilities that leaders face in the age of AI.
The book is based on extensive research and is packed with real-world examples, making it an essential guide for rethinking how firms compete and operate in the AI era.
Pricing:
The book “Competing in the Age of AI” is priced at $22.31 for the hardcover edition.
4. Faith in the Age of AI
“Faith in the Age of AI” by Dan Scott is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between faith and the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. The book is not just about the specifics of AI, but serves as a guide to navigating a world where AI exists. 3
It raises important questions about the implications of AI on our belief systems and how we understand our spiritual selves in this new age.
Scott's meticulous research and attention to detail shine through, making this book an essential guide for anyone interested in the interaction between science and faith.
Pricing:
“Faith in the Age of AI” is available in paperback for $18.59. The Kindle version is available for $9.99.
5. Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies
“Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies” is another AI and ML book by philosopher Nick Bostrom. Published in 2014, the book delves into the potential outcomes and risks associated with the creation of artificial superintelligence.
It explores the concept of machines surpassing human intelligence and the profound implications this could have on our society.
The book is a blend of philosophy, morality, and future predictions, offering a comprehensive overview of the challenges and strategies related to the development of superintelligent machines.
Pricing:
“Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies” is available for purchase for $13.09.
6. The Business Case for AI
“The Business Case for AI” book demystifies the complexities of AI and its progressing impact on the business landscape.
The book, authored by Kavita Ganesan, provides a practical approach to implementing AI in businesses, focusing on strategies, best practices, and real-world applications.
It is designed to help business leaders establish an AI mindset, manage AI initiatives effectively, and navigate AI opportunities for success.
Pricing:
“The Business Case for AI” is available for $21.99 and the Kindle version for $8.99.
7. AI Superpowers
“AI Superpowers: China, Silicon Valley, and the New World Order” is one of the best insightful books on AI and ML authored by Kai-Fu Lee, one of the world's most respected experts on AI and China.
The book gives details about the unprecedented developments in AI, predicting dramatic changes that will occur sooner than many anticipate.
Lee provides a clear description of which jobs will be affected and how soon, which jobs can be enhanced with AI, and most importantly, how we can adapt to these changes.
The book also highlights the rise of China as an AI powerhouse and the potential economic upheaval that AI could cause.
Pricing:
“AI Superpowers: China, Silicon Valley, and the New World Order” is available for purchase at a price of $13.59.
8. The Age of AI
“The Age of AI: And Our Human Future” is a profound exploration of the intersection between technology and human experience.
Authored by Henry Kissinger, Eric Schmidt, and Daniel Huttenlocher, the book delves into the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for society.
It presents a compelling argument that AI is not just altering how humans perform tasks, but also how they perceive themselves as contributors to society.
The book challenges conventional thought about AI, emphasizing the significant changes it will bring while also underscoring the belief that humans can still shape the future despite these unprecedented advancements.
Pricing:
“The Age of AI: And Our Human Future” is available in Kindle format for $12.99 and in paperback for $15.19.
9. Life 3.0
“Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” is an interesting book by Max Tegmark that tells the societal implications of artificial intelligence (AI).
The book discusses the potential future of life on Earth and beyond, as AI continues to evolve. Tegmark presents a comprehensive view of how life has evolved from its biological origins (Life 1.0), through cultural developments (Life 2.0), to a future stage where life can design both its software and hardware (Life 3.0).
The book is a fascinating exploration of the challenges and opportunities that AI presents for humanity's future.
Pricing:
“Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” is available for purchase at $15.33.
10. Generative AI: The Future of Everything
“Generative AI: The Future of Everything” is about the rapidly evolving field of generative AI. Authored by Sharad Gandhi and Christian Ehl, this book provides a deep understanding of the transformative power of generative AI and its potential to reshape various industries, professions, and jobs.
It offers insights into how this technology can enhance our lives, decision-making processes, and solution development. However, it also addresses the significant concerns and risks that generative AI poses to society and humanity.
Pricing:
“Generative AI: The Future of Everything” is available at $17.95 and the Kindle version for $7.99.
11. Genius Makers
“Genius Makers” by Cade Metz is a riveting non-fiction book that talks about the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on society.
The book provides an in-depth account of the pioneers who brought AI to tech giants like Google and Facebook, and the ongoing race to develop AI.
It explores the challenges, ethics, and potential societal implications of AI, offering a comprehensive view of the sprawling history of AI.
Pricing:
“Genius Makers: The Mavericks Who Brought AI to Google, Facebook, and the World” is available for purchase at $13.99.
12. Power and Prediction
“Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence” is a compelling sequel to the widely-acclaimed “Prediction Machines: The Simple Economics of Artificial Intelligence”.
Authored by eminent economists Ajay Agrawal, Joshua Gans, and Avi Goldfarb, the book explains the transformative potential of AI in decision-making and the systemic changes it necessitates.
It provides a lucid, informative, and exciting exploration of AI's potential to transform the decision-making process, highlighting the new approaches and barriers that need to be overcome.
Pricing:
“Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence” is available in hardcover for $18.29.
13. AI and Machine Learning for Coders
“AI and Machine Learning for Coders” is a complete guide that provides a hands-on, code-first approach to the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
It is authored by Laurence Moroney and based on his highly successful AI courses and is designed to help programmers transition into AI specialists.
The book focuses on practical aspects of implementing AI and ML, making it an invaluable resource for developers.
Pricing:
The book “AI and Machine Learning for Coders” is available for purchase at $38.49.
14. AI 2041: Ten Visions for Our Future
“AI 2041: Ten Visions for Our Future” is a compelling exploration of how artificial intelligence (AI) will transform our lives in the next two decades.
Co-authored by Kai-Fu Lee, a luminary in the field of AI, and Chen Qiufan, a renowned science fiction writer, the book presents a unique blend of speculative fiction and insightful analysis.
Through ten thought-provoking short stories, the authors offer a window into a future where AI's influence permeates every aspect of human existence, from education and healthcare to entertainment and social interaction.
Pricing:
The list price for “AI 2041: Ten Visions for Our Future” is $21.99, with discounts available for bulk purchases.
15. Artificial Intelligence for Humans
“Artificial Intelligence for Humans” book aims to demystify the complex world of artificial intelligence (AI) for those without an extensive mathematical background.
Authored by Jeff Heaton, the series provides a strong foundation in basic AI algorithms such as dimensionality, distance metrics, clustering, error calculation, hill climbing, Nelder Mead, and linear regression.
The book series is designed to be accessible to a general audience, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in understanding the fundamental concepts and applications of AI.
Pricing:
The “Artificial Intelligence for Humans” series is available for purchase on various online platforms at $22.73.
16. The Sentiment Machine
“The Sentiment Machine” by Amir Husain is a compelling book that inspect the world of sentiment analysis and machine learning.
The book teaches the intricacies of how machine learning techniques can predict sentiments, whether positive, negative, or neutral, based on various data sources.
It serves as a stepping stone into the impending age of AI, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of how sentiment analysis can be applied in various fields, from market analysis to customer feedback.
Pricing:
“The Sentiment Machine” is available for purchase on various online platforms starting at $39.99.
17. The AI Revolution in Medicine
“The AI Revolution in Medicine: GPT-4 and Beyond” is a groundbreaking book that talks about the ever-changing potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of medicine.
Authored by Peter Lee, Carey Goldberg, and Isaac Kohane, the book provides a comprehensive overview of how AI, particularly large language models like GPT-4, can transform healthcare.
It gives information about the capabilities of AI, its applications in various aspects of healthcare, and the potential future of this technology in medicine.
The book serves as a guide for physicians, patients, healthcare leaders, payers, policymakers, and investors, helping them understand and navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI in healthcare.
Pricing:
“The AI Revolution in Medicine: GPT-4 and Beyond” is available for purchase at a regular price of $24.14.
18. Human + Machine
“Human + Machine: Reimagining Work in the Age of AI” is a book that tells a pivotal exploration of the synergistic potential between artificial intelligence (AI) and human expertise.
Written by Paul R. Daugherty and H. James Wilson, the book provides a roadmap for integrating AI into business strategies across various industries.
It presents a future where AI amplifies human capabilities, leading to unprecedented levels of innovation, efficiency, and productivity.
Pricing:
The book is available on Amazon for $16.99 (Kindle) or $18.59 (Hardcover).
19. Applied Artificial Intelligence
“Applied Artificial Intelligence” is a practical guide for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and digital professionals who are passionate about leveraging machine intelligence to enhance the productivity of their companies and the quality of life in their communities.
The book provides a thorough, nuanced, and practical guide for those looking to get started with AI, focusing on driving concrete business decisions through applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
It is written by Mariya Yao and Adelyn Zhou with the combined knowledge of the field, making it a valuable resource for understanding and applying AI in various industries.
Pricing:
The “Applied Artificial Intelligence” book is available for purchase at $24.95.
20. Responsible AI in the Enterprise
“Responsible AI in the Enterprise” provides a roadmap for implementing ethical, transparent, and compliant AI systems in an organization.
The book focuses on key concepts of machine learning models and equips readers with techniques and algorithms to tackle complex issues such as bias, fairness, and model governance.
It offers practical insights into using AI governance tools to ensure fairness, bias mitigation, explainability, privacy compliance, and privacy in an enterprise setting.
This AI & ML book is a must-read for data scientists, machine learning engineers, AI practitioners, IT professionals, business stakeholders, and AI ethicists who are responsible for implementing AI models in their organizations.
Pricing:
The pricing for “Responsible AI in the Enterprise” is $44.99.
21. Scary Smart
“Scary Smart” is another thought-provoking book by Mo Gawdat that gives teachings into the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications.
The book is a comprehensive guide that explores the potential of AI to transform life as we know it, while also highlighting the risks associated with it.
Gawdat, an engineer and former Chief Business Officer at Google X, uses his expertise to provide a balanced perspective on AI, urging readers to be mindful of these risks as we move forward into an increasingly automated world.
The book is very useful for beginner readers and does an excellent job of explaining complex topics in simple language.
Pricing:
“Scary Smart” is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble for $14.99.
22. 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity
“2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity” by John C. Lennox is the last AI & ML book in our list. This information-rich book talks about the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for humanity.
The book provides a comprehensive overview of AI, its potential benefits, and the challenges it poses. Lennox, an emeritus professor of mathematics at Oxford University, explains the intersection of faith and technology, offering a Christian perspective on the future of AI.
2084 is designed to challenge readers and ignite curiosity, providing clear information and credible answers to the daunting questions posed by AI.
Pricing:
The book “2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity” is available for purchase at a list price of $19.99.
Approaches to Machine Learning
Machine learning is a rapidly growing field with a multitude of approaches and techniques that are constantly evolving. In order to effectively understand and apply these approaches, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the various strategies and methodologies used in machine learning. This includes understanding the different types of learning, such as supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning, as well as the various algorithms and models used to make predictions and decisions.
Unsupervised Learning
Unsupervised Learning is a crucial concept in machine learning, allowing systems to learn from data without labeled responses. This is important because it enables machines to discover patterns and relationships within the data on their own, without human intervention. Real-world applications of Unsupervised Learning include clustering similar customer preferences in marketing, detecting anomalies in credit card transactions for fraud prevention, and organizing news articles into topics for recommendation systems.
When it comes to AI, Unsupervised Learning plays a crucial role in enabling machines to learn from experience and make decisions autonomously. It complements neural networks by providing them with more data for learning and improving their performance.
Supervised Learning
Supervised learning is a popular technique used in machine learning where algorithms are trained on labeled data to make predictions and identify patterns. Programmers use large data sets to develop these algorithms, where the input data and the corresponding output are known. This allows the algorithm to learn from the data and make predictions on new, unseen data.
Supervised learning has numerous applications, such as in spam email detection, image recognition, and language translation. For example, in healthcare, supervised learning is used to predict patient outcomes and diagnose diseases. In finance, it is used for credit scoring and fraud detection.
Reinforcement Learning
Reinforcement learning is a type of machine learning that involves training an algorithm to make sequential decisions in an environment in order to maximize a specific goal or reward. This is achieved by allowing the algorithm to explore different actions and receive feedback in the form of rewards or penalties, which informs its future decisions.
Real-world applications of reinforcement learning include autonomous vehicles learning to navigate traffic, robots learning to perform complex tasks, and recommendation systems learning user preferences to provide personalized suggestions. In the context of AI, reinforcement learning complements other techniques by enabling autonomous learning and decision-making abilities.
What should I consider when choosing an AI or ML book?
When choosing an AI or ML book, consider the following factors to ensure you select a resource that aligns with your learning objectives and skill level:
- Author's Expertise: Look for books written by authors with recognized expertise in AI and ML, such as academics, researchers, or industry professionals.
- Content Relevance: Ensure the book covers the latest advancements and includes relevant content for the current state of AI and ML technologies.
- Practical Application: Opt for books that provide practical examples and hands-on projects, which can help solidify your understanding of theoretical concepts.
- Reader's Background: Consider your own background and choose a book that matches your level of expertise, whether you're a beginner or an advanced learner.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from trusted sources or communities to gauge the book's effectiveness and suitability for your needs.
- Ethical Considerations: For a well-rounded understanding, select books that also discuss the ethical implications and societal impacts of AI and ML.
- Business and Industry Focus: If you're a business leader, choose books that focus on the application of AI and ML in business and industry-specific contexts.
- Data and Problem Complexity: Assess whether the book addresses the complexity of data and problems you're interested in, especially for hands-on ML projects.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a book that not only enhances your knowledge but also supports your growth in the field of AI and ML.
FAQs on Best Books on AI & ML in 2024
For someone interested in AI applications in healthcare, which book is recommended?
“Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare” is a recommended read for those interested in the application of AI in the healthcare sector.
Are there any introductory books on AI that do not require a strong technical background?
Yes, books like “Artificial Intelligence Basics: A Non-Technical Introduction” are designed for beginners without a lot of technical language.
What advanced topics in AI and ML can I learn about from books?
Advanced topics like relational data and node embeddings, knowledge graph embedding models, graph neural networks, message-passing neural networks, probabilistic programming, and deep generative models can be learned from appropriate AI & ML books.
Is there a book that covers the philosophical aspects of AI and ML?
“Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” by Max Tegmark is one such book that explores these themes and the implications of AI on society, ethics, and the future of humanity.
What are some books that discuss the potential dangers of AI?
“Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies” and “Scary Smart” both discuss the potential dangers and risks associated with advanced AI.
Are there any books that discuss the societal impacts of AI?
“The Age of AI” and “2084” both discuss the societal impacts of AI, exploring how AI is reshaping our world.
Are there any books that discuss responsible AI practices?
“Responsible AI in the Enterprise” is a great resource for understanding how to implement AI responsibly in a business context.
Are there any books that discuss AI from a humanistic perspective?
“Artificial Intelligence for Humans” and “Human + Machine” both discuss AI from a humanistic perspective, exploring how AI can augment human capabilities
Recommended Readings:
My Opinion
This article has covered 22 of the top books on artificial intelligence and machine learning that I highly endorse reading in 2024 based on my experience.
These AI & ML books provide comprehensive overviews of key concepts, practical guidance on implementing techniques, and thought-provoking visions of the future of AI.
I especially recommend “Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach” for its breadth and depth in explaining the field's foundations. For hands-on ML applications, “AI and Machine Learning for Coders” is an invaluable asset. And, if you want to grasp the inner complexities and implications of AI, dive into “Scary Smart” by Mo Gawdat.
While I have highlighted just a few standout titles, all 22 books listed offer invaluable wisdom that will enrich any reader seeking to enhance their AI knowledge.
I hope you discover volumes that inspire, educate, and prepare you for the age of artificial intelligence unfolding before us.
💥 What's your top AI or ML book recommendation for 2024? 💥
