9 Best-Selling Machine Learning Books Millions Love
Top Machine Learning Books recommended by Kirk Borne, Pratham Prasoon, and Adam Gabriel for proven, best-selling insights




When millions of readers and top experts agree on a book, it signals something worth your attention—especially in a fast-evolving field like machine learning. From automating complex workflows to mastering foundational algorithms, these books capture the breadth and depth of ML knowledge that professionals turn to for guidance and growth.
Experts like Kirk Borne, Principal Data Scientist at Booz Allen, have highlighted classics like Neural Smithing, praising its practical insights into neural networks. Meanwhile, Pratham Prasoon, a self-taught programmer, found Machine Learning with PyTorch and Scikit-Learn invaluable during critical research internships. Their endorsements reflect how these titles resonate deeply within the expert community.
While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific Machine Learning needs might consider creating a personalized Machine Learning book that combines these validated approaches into a focused, custom learning path.
Recommended by Kirk Borne
Principal Data Scientist at BoozAllen
“5-★ DataScientists should enjoy this classic MachineLearning book! Neural Smithing — Supervised Learning in Feedforward Artificial NeuralNetworks” (from X)
by Russell D. Reed, Robert J. Marks II··You?
by Russell D. Reed, Robert J. Marks II··You?
Unlike most machine learning books that skim the surface of neural networks, this work dives deep into multilayer perceptrons (MLPs), the backbone of feedforward artificial neural networks. Russell D. Reed and Robert J. Marks II, both seasoned researchers, share insights on structure, performance factors, and applications spanning finance forecasting to speech recognition. You’ll find detailed explanations of MLP methodology in chapters that balance theory with practical use, helping you understand why these networks behave the way they do and how to apply them effectively. This book suits engineers and data scientists ready to move beyond basics into nuanced aspects of supervised learning using neural nets.
Wes McKinney’s decades of experience in quantitative finance and software development led him to create the pandas library, which transformed data analysis in Python. This book teaches you how to manipulate, clean, and analyze data using pandas, NumPy, and Jupyter notebooks, offering detailed examples like using pandas’ groupby to summarize datasets or handling time series data effectively. You’ll gain hands-on skills in loading and transforming data, visualizing insights with matplotlib, and solving complex data problems, making it ideal whether you’re new to Python or a programmer diving into data science. If you want to move beyond spreadsheets and into powerful, code-driven data analysis, this book offers practical tools and techniques without unnecessary jargon.
by TailoredRead AI·
This tailored book explores the dynamic field of automated model selection and optimization techniques within machine learning. It covers essential concepts and practical approaches, revealing how automation can accelerate machine learning workflows. By focusing on your interests and matching your background, it examines core AutoML algorithms, model evaluation methods, and optimization processes in a way that resonates with your specific goals. This personalized guide delves into topics like hyperparameter tuning, pipeline automation, and performance enhancement, offering a learning experience shaped just for you. The result is a tailored resource that combines broad expert knowledge with the nuances of your unique learning path.
by Chip Huyen··You?
What happens when experience from top tech companies meets the challenge of building machine learning systems? Chip Huyen draws on her work with NVIDIA, Netflix, and Snorkel AI to guide you through designing ML systems that aren't just experimental but production-ready. You'll learn to engineer training data, select features, automate model retraining, and monitor deployed models effectively. The book’s iterative framework is enriched with real case studies that clarify complex decisions, such as balancing scalability with adaptability. If you're involved in ML system development or platform architecture, this book offers clear insights to help you create reliable and maintainable solutions.
by Samuel Hack·You?
Unlike most introductions that dive straight into coding, Samuel Hack’s book takes a step back to clarify what artificial intelligence truly means and why machine learning holds such transformative potential. You’ll grasp the distinctions between supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning, along with practical insights on neural networks and decision trees, all explained without jargon overload. It’s designed so both programmers and curious beginners can build a solid foundation, making complex concepts approachable through clear examples and focused chapters like ensemble modeling and statistical basics. If you want a straightforward entry into machine learning fundamentals without getting lost in technical weeds, this book fits that need well.
Recommended by Pratham Prasoon
Self-taught programmer, modular blockchain builder
“Last but not least, we have Machine Learning with PyTorch and Scikit-Learn. This book was a lifesaver during my research internship! You'll learn about deep and classical machine learning with great to-the-point theory explanations. Suitable for slightly more advanced readers.” (from X)
by Sebastian Raschka, Yuxi (Hayden) Liu, Vahid Mirjalili··You?
by Sebastian Raschka, Yuxi (Hayden) Liu, Vahid Mirjalili··You?
The methods Sebastian Raschka and his co-authors developed while advancing machine learning research at top institutions come through clearly in this book. You’ll dive into both classical machine learning techniques with scikit-learn and modern deep learning frameworks using PyTorch, exploring topics like transformers, GANs, and graph neural networks. The book balances theory and practice, offering detailed code examples alongside explanations of model evaluation and tuning. If you’re comfortable with Python and math basics, you’ll find this especially beneficial for building and understanding your own ML models rather than just following recipes.
by TailoredRead AI·
This tailored book explores a step-by-step journey into building and deploying machine learning models that align precisely with your goals. It covers key concepts from foundational algorithms through practical deployment techniques, focusing on your interests and current background. By combining widely valued knowledge with your specific objectives, it reveals how to effectively translate theory into actionable ML applications. The content is personalized to match your learning pace and desired outcomes, ensuring a focused experience that highlights relevant methods and real-world examples. Through this tailored exploration, readers gain a clear pathway for mastering machine learning skills in a practical and engaging way.
by Frank Hutter, Lars Kotthoff, Joaquin Vanschoren··You?
by Frank Hutter, Lars Kotthoff, Joaquin Vanschoren··You?
Frank Hutter's extensive research in machine learning and optimization culminates in this detailed examination of Automated Machine Learning (AutoML). You gain insight into how AutoML aims to reduce reliance on human experts by automating the selection of ML architectures and hyperparameters, a challenge critical for scaling real-world applications. The book walks you through general methods, existing systems, and international challenges that have shaped the field, providing a solid foundation for researchers and advanced practitioners alike. If you're interested in how optimization principles intersect with machine learning to streamline model development, this book offers clear explanations and relevant case studies, though it assumes some prior knowledge.
by GLORIA GIBSON·You?
Drawing from her deep experience in Python programming and AI development, Gloria Gibson crafted this book to bridge the gap between theory and implementation in artificial intelligence and machine learning. You’ll learn how to build predictive models using supervised and unsupervised learning, develop neural networks with popular frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch, and create natural language processing applications such as chatbots. Detailed chapters walk you through practical projects in healthcare, finance, and marketing, providing not only code but also insights into ethical AI practices. This guide suits aspiring data scientists and software developers eager to gain hands-on skills in AI and machine learning using Python.
by Ali Aminian, Alex Xu·You?
by Ali Aminian, Alex Xu·You?
Ali Aminian and Alex Xu tackle one of the toughest challenges in tech interviews: machine learning system design. The book lays out a clear 7-step framework that helps you break down complex questions, supported by 211 diagrams and 10 in-depth case studies like Google Street View blurring and YouTube video search. You’ll gain insights into what interviewers really look for and how to communicate your solutions effectively. Whether you’re just starting out or prepping for an advanced ML interview, this book equips you with practical skills to navigate system design discussions confidently.
Recommended by Kirk Borne
Principal Data Scientist at Booz Allen
“[Book] #MachineLearning — a Probabilistic Perspective: ———— #BigData #Statistics #DataScience #DeepLearning #AI #Algorithms #StatisticalLiteracy #Mathematics #abdsc ——— ⬇Get this brilliant 1100-page 28-chapter highly-rated book:” (from X)
by Kevin P. Murphy··You?
by Kevin P. Murphy··You?
Kevin P. Murphy, a professor and Google research scientist with a deep background spanning Cambridge, UC Berkeley, and MIT, developed this book to unify machine learning through probabilistic models and inference. You’ll find detailed explanations of core concepts like conditional random fields, L1 regularization, and deep learning, all illustrated with examples from biology to robotics. The book demands a solid math foundation but rewards you with a principled approach rather than heuristic shortcuts, including access to MATLAB code for practical experimentation. If you’re ready to engage deeply with the theory behind algorithms and want a resource that bridges foundational knowledge with advanced topics, this book will serve you well. However, it’s less suited for casual learners seeking quick recipes.
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Conclusion
This collection of 9 best-selling Machine Learning books reveals clear themes: a balance of theoretical rigor and practical application, a focus on scalable system design, and a spectrum from beginner-friendly guides to advanced optimization techniques. If you prefer proven methods, start with Machine Learning for Beginners and Python for Data Analysis. For validated approaches to system design and deep learning, combine Designing Machine Learning Systems and Neural Smithing.
Alternatively, you can create a personalized Machine Learning book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed in navigating the complex landscape of machine learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?
Start with Machine Learning for Beginners for a clear foundation, then explore Python for Data Analysis to build practical skills. These books offer accessible entry points before diving into more advanced topics.
Are these books too advanced for someone new to Machine Learning?
Several books like Machine Learning for Beginners and ESSENTIAL ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND MACHINE LEARNING WITH PYTHON are designed for newcomers, explaining concepts clearly without jargon overload.
What's the best order to read these books?
Begin with beginner-friendly titles, then progress to system design and specialized topics like Neural Smithing or Automated Machine Learning to deepen your expertise.
Should I start with the newest book or a classic?
Balance is key—classic books like Neural Smithing offer foundational knowledge, while newer titles like Machine Learning System Design Interview cover current industry practices.
Do these books assume I already have experience in Machine Learning?
Not all. Some, such as Machine Learning for Beginners, require no prior experience, while others like Machine Learning by Kevin Murphy expect familiarity with math and statistics.
How can I tailor these popular books to my specific learning goals?
While these expert-recommended books provide solid frameworks, personalized books can adapt their insights to your background and objectives. You can create a personalized Machine Learning book that blends proven methods with what matters most to you.
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