10 Quantum AI Books That Separate Experts from Amateurs

Curated by Alberto Di Meglio, Head of Innovation at CERN, and Kirk Borne, Principal Data Scientist at Booz Allen, these Quantum AI books offer unparalleled insights into the field.

Kirk Borne
Updated on June 22, 2025
We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page

What if the quantum leap in artificial intelligence isn’t a distant dream but unfolding right now? Quantum AI merges two frontiers—quantum computing and machine learning—promising to reshape how we solve complex problems. As industries race to harness this potential, understanding the foundational and practical aspects becomes critical. The surge in Quantum AI interest demands resources that cut through hype and deliver actionable knowledge.

Leading voices like Alberto Di Meglio, Head of Innovation at CERN's Quantum Technology Initiative, and Kirk Borne, Principal Data Scientist at Booz Allen, have spotlighted key texts bridging theory and real-world application. Alberto praises guides offering hands-on implementation on actual quantum hardware, while Kirk highlights works connecting quantum machine learning to finance and data science, illustrating the field’s growing impact.

While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific experience level, profession, or learning goals might consider creating a personalized Quantum AI book that builds on these insights, offering a custom roadmap through this evolving landscape.

Alberto Di Meglio, Head of Innovation at CERN and coordinator of its Quantum Technology Initiative, brought a deep practical perspective to this book's review. After exploring numerous quantum AI resources, he found this guide uniquely valuable for its blend of clear formal explanations and hands-on implementation examples on real quantum computers. "The authors of this book not only provide clear formal explanations at every step, but also practical instructions and examples on how to implement and execute algorithms and methods on freely accessible actual quantum computers," he notes, emphasizing how the exercises helped sustain his engagement and deepen understanding. This book reshaped his view on applying quantum algorithms beyond theory into practice.

Recommended by Alberto Di Meglio

Head of Innovation, CERN Quantum Technology

The authors of this book not only provide clear formal explanations at every step, but also practical instructions and examples on how to implement and execute algorithms and methods on freely accessible actual quantum computers. Exercises with detailed answers check your progress and gently push beyond your comfort zone, keeping interest alive. Whether beginning your quantum computing journey or exploring its potential in research, this book serves as a trustworthy guide on an exciting path.

When Elías F. Combarro and Samuel Gonzalez-Castillo set out to write this guide, they focused on making modern quantum algorithms accessible with minimal advanced math. You gain hands-on experience implementing algorithms like quantum annealing and QAOA on real quantum hardware and simulators. The book walks you through optimization problems using QUBO and Ising models, and dives into quantum machine learning techniques such as quantum neural networks and generative adversarial networks, supported by practical code examples using Qiskit and PennyLane. If you're comfortable with basic linear algebra and Python, this book equips you with both foundational theory and applied skills to explore quantum AI's current capabilities and tooling.

New York Times Bestseller
Rated Amazon Best Book of the Year
#3 Best Seller in Process Management
View on Amazon
Best for finance-focused quantum AI practitioners
Kirk Borne, Principal Data Scientist at Booz Allen and astrophysicist, recognized this book while exploring advances in Quantum AI. He shared, "Another great new book I just received from Packt Publishing >> 'Quantum Machine Learning and Optimization in Finance'", highlighting its relevance to data science and AI. His endorsement brings attention to how this work deepens understanding of quantum machine learning's practical potential in finance, reflecting a shift from purely theoretical approaches to actionable quantum applications.
KB

Recommended by Kirk Borne

Principal Data Scientist at Booz Allen

Another great new book I just received from Packt Publishing >> "Quantum Machine Learning and Optimization in Finance" (391 pages): Big Data, Data Science, Neural Networks, AI, Quantum Computing, Computational Science (from X)

2022·442 pages·Quantum AI, Quantum Mechanics, Quantum Theory, Financial Modelling, Quantum Optimisation

Unlike most quantum AI books that focus heavily on theory, this one bridges quantum machine learning with tangible financial applications. Antoine Jacquier, a seasoned mathematician and quantitative finance expert, teams up with Oleksiy Kondratyev to guide you through harnessing NISQ-era quantum computers for optimisation and predictive modeling in finance. You learn how to implement parameterised quantum circuits, quantum boosting, and quantum neural networks specifically tailored for financial challenges like credit approvals and high-frequency trading. This book suits quants, data scientists, and developers eager to apply emerging quantum techniques beyond abstract theory, offering practical insights grounded in real-world finance scenarios.

New York Times Bestseller
Rated Amazon Best Book of the Year
#3 Best Seller in Process Management
View on Amazon
Best for foundational learning goals
This AI-tailored book on quantum AI develops a systematic approach with frameworks that adapt to your specific learning background and goals. The content adjusts based on your interests and experience level to address the foundational concepts and introductory algorithms critical for newcomers. Created after you specify your areas of interest, it bridges the gap between abstract quantum theory and practical algorithmic implementation, providing a clear roadmap through the core principles of quantum artificial intelligence.
2025·50-300 pages·Quantum AI, Quantum Algorithms, Quantum Computing, Quantum States, Superposition

This personalized framework on fundamental quantum AI algorithms addresses the foundational principles essential for newcomers entering the field. It provides a tailored approach that adjusts to your prior knowledge and learning objectives, cutting through extraneous details to focus on core quantum computing concepts, quantum machine learning models, and algorithmic strategies. The book offers clear explanations of quantum states, superposition, entanglement, and their roles in AI algorithms, alongside introductory methodologies for leveraging quantum circuits and variational algorithms. By situating these principles within your specific experience level and goals, it creates an efficient learning pathway that bridges theoretical understanding with practical algorithmic applications in quantum AI.

Tailored Framework
Quantum Algorithm Insights
3,000+ Books Created
Best for Python-versed quantum AI developers
Santanu Pattanayak, a staff machine learning specialist at Qualcomm with over a decade of experience including stints at IBM and GE, brings a unique blend of expertise to this book. His electrical engineering background combined with a master's in data science from IIT Hyderabad grounds the text firmly in both theory and practice. His passion for mathematics and active engagement in Kaggle competitions enrich the practical examples throughout the book, making this a valuable resource for those looking to deepen their understanding of quantum machine learning using industry-standard tools like Qiskit and Cirq.
2021·384 pages·Quantum Computing, Quantum Theory, Quantum AI, Machine Learning, Quantum Algorithms

Drawing from his extensive experience in machine learning at Qualcomm and earlier roles at IBM and GE, Santanu Pattanayak offers a thorough exploration of quantum computing fundamentals and their intersection with machine learning. You’ll gain a solid understanding of quantum concepts like Dirac notation and qubits before moving into complex algorithms such as Quantum Fourier transform and HHL. The book’s hands-on Python examples using Cirq and Qiskit let you engage directly with quantum machine learning techniques. This approach benefits machine learning engineers eager to bridge classical AI with quantum advancements, though a comfort with advanced math and programming is necessary to fully appreciate the content.

New York Times Bestseller
Rated Amazon Best Book of the Year
#3 Best Seller in Process Management
View on Amazon
Best for combinatorial optimization enthusiasts
Dr. Frank Zickert is a leading expert in quantum machine learning and programming, with extensive experience in developing practical applications of quantum algorithms. He has authored multiple volumes on the subject, focusing on making complex concepts accessible to practitioners and students alike. His background drives this book’s accessible approach, designed to help you master combinatorial optimization using quantum computing without requiring prior physics or mathematics expertise.
2023·434 pages·Quantum AI, Machine Learning, Programming, Combinatorial Optimization, Variational Quantum Eigensolver

What if everything you knew about quantum machine learning's accessibility was wrong? Dr. Frank Zickert challenges the notion that you must be a physicist or mathematician to engage with combinatorial optimization on quantum computers. Through practical Python tutorials and detailed walkthroughs of the Variational Quantum Eigensolver, you’ll learn to tackle complex problems like the Traveling Salesman Problem without heavy theoretical prerequisites. This book suits developers, data scientists, and students eager to apply quantum algorithms to real-world optimization challenges today, offering a bridge between fundamental concepts and hands-on implementation.

New York Times Bestseller
Rated Amazon Best Book of the Year
#3 Best Seller in Process Management
View on Amazon
Best for financial modelers using quantum AI
Professor Anshul Saxena, a quantum finance instructor at Christ University, combines over a decade of experience in IT and financial services with his expertise in quantum computing to author this book. His research on quantum computing’s role in complex financial problems, along with his work as a corporate trainer and patent holder, underpins the practical insights offered here. This book reflects his commitment to making quantum machine learning accessible for finance professionals aiming to enhance their analytical capabilities.
2023·292 pages·Quantum AI, Financial Modeling, Machine Learning, Portfolio Optimization, Risk Analytics

Drawing from his extensive background in finance and quantum computing, Professor Anshul Saxena presents a focused exploration of applying quantum machine learning to financial modeling. You’ll learn how to harness quantum algorithms within Python environments like Qiskit and Pennylane to tackle complex challenges such as portfolio optimization, derivatives valuation, and credit risk analytics. The book walks you through from basic quantum principles to advanced algorithm implementations, offering concrete examples and contrasting classical and quantum approaches. If you’re a financial practitioner or quantitative analyst comfortable with Python and foundational math, this text provides a clear pathway to integrating quantum computing into your financial analysis toolkit.

New York Times Bestseller
Rated Amazon Best Book of the Year
#3 Best Seller in Process Management
View on Amazon
Best for tailored finance strategies
This AI-tailored book on quantum finance develops a systematic approach with frameworks that adapt to your specific financial industry challenges and investment goals. The content adjusts based on your expertise and focus areas to address the nuanced intersection of quantum computing and financial modeling. It bridges theoretical concepts with actionable strategies for portfolio optimization, risk management, and market analysis, created after you specify your areas of interest and experience level. The tailored nature ensures the material fits your professional context, enabling efficient application of quantum AI techniques in complex financial environments.
2025·50-300 pages·Quantum AI, Financial Modeling, Portfolio Optimization, Risk Assessment, Market Prediction

This personalized framework explores quantum AI techniques specifically designed for financial modeling and optimization. It provides tailored methodologies that integrate quantum algorithms with financial data analytics, focusing on improving portfolio management, risk assessment, and market prediction. The book addresses practical quantum machine learning models and optimization strategies adapted to your unique financial context and expertise level. By cutting through irrelevant advice, it fits your specific industry challenges and investment goals, offering a comprehensive approach to harness quantum computing’s potential for solving complex market problems. This tailored approach ensures a focused learning path that aligns quantum technology with your financial decision-making processes.

Tailored Framework
Quantum Market Modeling
3,000+ Custom Books Made
Best for readers exploring quantum AI ethics
Tristan Jeaux is an innovative author known for exploring the intersections of technology and human experience. With a background in artificial intelligence and a passion for storytelling, Jeaux crafts narratives that challenge perceptions of the future. His works often delve into the implications of advanced technologies on society, making him a prominent voice in contemporary science fiction. This book imagines a future where a quantum AI reshapes life and death, offering readers a thought-provoking journey into the ethical and societal changes that come with such technology.
2024·505 pages·Quantum AI, Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, Society, Longevity

Drawing from his background in artificial intelligence, Tristan Jeaux imagines a near future transformed by a quantum AI that governs human life and longevity in "The Quantum A.I. Cajun: Age of Indefinence." You explore a society divided between those granted indefinite life extensions and those who are not, witnessing how this divide reshapes values, relationships, and identity. The narrative offers a detailed look at the ethical and psychological implications of AI-controlled life extension, especially through the eyes of David, a member of the elite PSIpress corporation. This book suits anyone intrigued by the intersection of technology, society, and the meaning of existence in an AI-driven future.

New York Times Bestseller
View on Amazon
Best for advanced quantum machine learning researchers
Maria Schuld works as a researcher for the Toronto-based quantum computing start-up Xanadu. She received her Ph.D. from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in 2017, where she began working on the intersection between quantum computing and machine learning in 2013. Besides her numerous contributions to the field, she is a co-developer for the open-source quantum machine learning software framework PennyLane. This background uniquely positions her to guide you through the complexities of quantum AI with both depth and clarity.
Machine Learning with Quantum Computers (Quantum Science and Technology) book cover

by Maria Schuld, Francesco Petruccione··You?

2021·326 pages·Quantum AI, Machine Learning, Quantum Computing, Quantum Algorithms, Hybrid Optimization

Unlike most technical texts that dwell solely on theory, this book bridges the gap between quantum computing and machine learning by delving into both cutting-edge algorithms and practical techniques. Maria Schuld, drawing from her research at Xanadu and her pioneering work on quantum machine learning since 2013, presents detailed explorations of parameterized quantum circuits, hybrid optimization methods, and quantum feature maps that equip you to understand how quantum systems process data differently. The second edition expands into near-term quantum machine learning, offering insights that benefit graduate-level computer scientists and physicists looking to grasp the evolving landscape of quantum AI. If you seek a solid foundation that combines theory with emerging applications, this book meets that need without overwhelming you with abstract mathematics alone.

New York Times Bestseller
Rated Amazon Best Book of the Year
#3 Best Seller in Process Management
View on Amazon
Best for applied quantum ML professionals
Santanu Ganguly brings over two decades of experience in quantum technologies, cloud computing, and data networking to this detailed exploration of quantum machine learning. With advanced degrees in mathematics and astrophysics, and leadership in global projects related to quantum communication and machine learning, Ganguly offers you a rigorous yet accessible path into applied Quantum AI. His deep research background and industry insight make this book a solid resource for anyone looking to bridge theoretical concepts with practical quantum algorithm implementations.
2021·572 pages·Quantum AI, Machine Learning, Quantum Computing, Quantum Algorithms, Optimization

When Santanu Ganguly first discovered the intersection of quantum mechanics and machine learning, he saw an opportunity to reshape how algorithms handle complex data. This book guides you through practical quantum machine learning techniques, covering algorithms like quantum k-means and quantum neural networks, alongside hands-on exercises with real-world libraries like Qiskit and TensorFlow Quantum. You’ll gain concrete skills in preparing qubit states, implementing optimization strategies, and exploring advanced research topics such as quantum walks and Tensor Networks. Ideal if you’re a data scientist or machine learning professional eager to apply quantum computing without needing a deep dive into quantum mechanics theory.

New York Times Bestseller
Rated Amazon Best Book of the Year
#3 Best Seller in Process Management
View on Amazon
Best for supervised quantum learning specialists
Francesco Petruccione received his PhD and Habilitation from the University of Freiburg and holds a South African Research Chair in Quantum Information Processing and Communication. Alongside Maria Schuld, a researcher and post-doc focused on quantum machine learning, their combined expertise grounds this book in deep theoretical physics and practical quantum computing research. Their work reflects years dedicated to advancing quantum information science, making this book a valuable resource for anyone serious about supervised learning within quantum AI.
2018·304 pages·Quantum AI, Supervised Learning, Quantum Algorithms, Data Encoding, Inference

What if everything you knew about machine learning was challenged by quantum mechanics? Maria Schuld and Francesco Petruccione, both deeply rooted in quantum physics and information processing, explore how quantum computers can revolutionize supervised learning. You’ll learn to translate classical data into quantum states, navigate quantum algorithms for inference and optimization, and grasp how near-term quantum devices might handle real-world prediction tasks. The book balances foundational theory with practical examples, like a toy quantum algorithm demonstration, making it ideal for computer scientists and physicists aiming to expand into quantum AI. While complex, it’s a focused dive into the intersection of quantum computation and supervised learning that doesn’t shy away from the nuances.

New York Times Bestseller
Rated Amazon Best Book of the Year
#3 Best Seller in Process Management
View on Amazon
Best for foundational quantum AI theorists
Andreas Wichert, born in Poland, studied computer science at the University of Saarland and earned his PhD focusing on neural information processing, philosophy, and ethics. Now a professor at the IST - University of Lisbon, he specializes in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and quantum computation. His extensive background informs this book, which introduces quantum computation concepts applied directly to AI, providing readers with a solid foundation in how quantum principles can enhance problem solving and knowledge representation in AI systems.
PRINCIPLES OF QUANTUM ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE book cover

by Andreas Miroslaus Wichert··You?

2013·276 pages·Quantum AI, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Quantum Computing, Problem Solving

This book challenged previous assumptions about quantum AI by grounding the discussion firmly in information theory and computation principles. Andreas Wichert draws on his deep expertise in neural information processing and machine learning to introduce key quantum algorithms like Quantum Fourier transform and Grover search, explaining their application to problem solving and knowledge representation. You'll find a clear framework for understanding how quantum computation can enhance AI systems, particularly through a novel quantum computer model based on production systems detailed in chapter five. This book suits those with a solid technical foundation interested in the intersection of quantum computing and AI, rather than casual readers.

New York Times Bestseller
View on Amazon

Get Your Personal Quantum AI Strategy in 10 Minutes

Stop following generic advice that doesn’t fit your situation. Get targeted strategies without reading 10+ books.

Targeted learning paths
Quantum AI insights
Practical guidance

Join 15,000+ Quantum AI enthusiasts who've personalized their approach

Quantum AI Foundations
Quantum Finance Edge
Cutting-Edge Quantum AI
Quantum AI Implementation

Conclusion

The collection of Quantum AI books here reveals clear themes: the necessity of balancing rigorous theory with hands-on practice, the importance of domain-specific applications—especially in finance—and the ethical questions emerging alongside technological advances. If you’re stepping into Quantum AI, start with practical guides like "A Practical Guide to Quantum Machine Learning and Quantum Optimization" to ground your skills. For those aiming to apply quantum AI in finance, pairing it with "Quantum Machine Learning and Optimisation in Finance" and "Financial Modeling Using Quantum Computing" sharpens your expertise.

Researchers and developers will find "Machine Learning with Quantum Computers" and "Supervised Learning with Quantum Computers" rich with advanced methods, while readers curious about the societal impact should explore "The Quantum A.I. Cajun". Once you’ve absorbed these expert insights, create a personalized Quantum AI book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation, accelerating your mastery and application.

Quantum AI stands at a thrilling intersection—armed with the right knowledge, you’re poised to navigate and contribute to its unfolding future with confidence and clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "A Practical Guide to Quantum Machine Learning and Quantum Optimization". It balances theory and hands-on examples, making it accessible yet thorough for newcomers.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Quantum AI?

Not at all. Several books like Dr. Frank Zickert's volume focus on bridging gaps for non-experts, providing practical tutorials without heavy math prerequisites.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with foundational guides, then move to application-focused texts like those on finance, and finally explore specialized topics or ethical considerations.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can pick based on your goals. For programming, try Santanu Pattanayak’s Python-focused book; for finance, Jacquier and Kondratyev’s work is ideal.

Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?

"PRINCIPLES OF QUANTUM ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE" and "Machine Learning with Quantum Computers" emphasize theory, while "Hands-On Quantum Machine Learning With Python" offers practical coding guidance.

How can I tailor these insights to my specific Quantum AI interests or skill level?

Great question! While these books cover broad expertise, you can create a personalized Quantum AI book tailored to your background, goals, and preferred topics—complementing expert knowledge with a custom learning path.

📚 Love this book list?

Help fellow book lovers discover great books, share this curated list with others!