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

Kirk Borne
Pratham Prasoon
Adam Gabriel Top Influencer
Santiago
Updated on June 28, 2025
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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.

Best for deep neural network insights
Kirk Borne, Principal Data Scientist at BoozAllen and a leading voice in data science, highlights this book as a classic for machine learning professionals. He points out its enduring value for data scientists eager to deepen their understanding of feedforward neural networks. His endorsement reflects how this book bridges foundational theory with practical insights, making it a trusted guide for those working with supervised learning models. "5-★ DataScientists should enjoy this classic MachineLearning book! Neural Smithing — Supervised Learning in Feedforward Artificial NeuralNetworks" encapsulates why so many have turned to this resource to sharpen their skills.
KB

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)

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.

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Best for data analysis with Python
Wes McKinney, a Nashville-based software developer and entrepreneur with a mathematics degree from MIT and experience at AQR Capital Management, wrote this book after growing frustrated with existing data analysis tools. As the creator of the pandas library, he offers unmatched expertise on using Python for data science, finance, and statistical computing. His leadership in projects like Apache Arrow and founding of Ursa Labs highlight his commitment to advancing data technologies, making this book a direct reflection of his deep knowledge and practical insights.

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.

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Best for personal AutoML plans
This AI-created book on automated learning is designed around your background and specific interests in machine learning. By sharing your experience level and goals, you get a tailored guide focusing on the aspects of AutoML that matter most to you. It makes sense to have a custom resource here because automation techniques vary widely, and your unique focus shapes how you apply them effectively. This personalized AI book ensures you explore model selection and optimization in a way that fits your needs and accelerates your learning journey.
2025·50-300 pages·Machine Learning, Automated Machine Learning, Model Selection, Hyperparameter Tuning, Pipeline Automation

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.

Tailored Content
AutoML Optimization
3,000+ Books Created
Best for production-ready ML systems
Chip Huyen is a co-founder of Claypot AI and has contributed to machine learning systems at NVIDIA, Netflix, and Snorkel AI. She teaches Stanford's Machine Learning Systems Design course, on which this book is based. Recognized as a Top Voice in Software Development and Data Science by LinkedIn, she wrote this book to share her deep expertise in creating reliable, scalable ML systems. Her background uniquely positions her to help you navigate the complexities of deploying machine learning in real-world environments.
2022·386 pages·Machine Learning, System Design, Data Engineering, Model Monitoring, Automation

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.

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Best for newcomers to machine learning
Samuel Hack’s book offers a clear pathway into the often intimidating world of machine learning by breaking down complex ideas into accessible language. Its focus on basic principles—from types of learning models to neural networks and decision trees—makes it a valuable resource for anyone eager to understand how machine learning works under the hood. This guide’s appeal lies in its ability to serve both newcomers and programmers seeking a refresher, providing a structured overview that demystifies artificial intelligence and its applications. If you’re looking to build a foundational understanding of machine learning essentials, this book meets that need with clarity and focus.
2019·219 pages·Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Neural Networks, Supervised Learning

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.

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Best for practitioners using Python frameworks
Pratham Prasoon, a self-taught programmer deeply involved in blockchain and machine learning, found this book a lifesaver during a research internship where clear, concise theory was crucial. He highlights how it covers both deep and classical machine learning effectively, making it a go-to for those with some experience in Python and ML concepts. His endorsement reflects why many readers have embraced it as a reliable resource to build solid machine learning skills. Santiago, another voice in the community, points to its substantial content across over 500 pages, reinforcing its value for anyone serious about mastering these technologies.
PP

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)

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.

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Best for personal skill plans
This AI-created book on machine learning is designed specifically around your background, skill level, and goals. You share which aspects of ML you want to focus on, and the book is created to match your interests and learning pace. Because machine learning covers so many techniques and applications, having a custom guide means you get exactly what you need without sifting through unrelated material. This tailored approach makes mastering practical ML skills more straightforward and engaging.
2025·50-300 pages·Machine Learning, Model Building, Data Preparation, Algorithm Selection, Feature Engineering

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.

Tailored Guide
Custom Model Building
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for AutoML and optimization enthusiasts
Frank Hutter is a renowned expert in machine learning and optimization, with a focus on automated machine learning. His extensive publications in top-tier conferences and journals establish him as a leading voice in the field. This book reflects his deep understanding and offers an authoritative overview of AutoML methods, systems, and challenges, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore the automation of machine learning processes.
Automated Machine Learning: Methods, Systems, Challenges (The Springer Series on Challenges in Machine Learning) book cover

by Frank Hutter, Lars Kotthoff, Joaquin Vanschoren··You?

2019·233 pages·Machine Learning, AI Models, AutoML Systems, Optimization Techniques, Hyperparameter Tuning

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.

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Essential Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning with Python stands out by combining foundational AI concepts with practical Python-based implementation. This independently published guide has gained attention for its clear tutorials and real-world examples, making complex topics like neural networks and natural language processing accessible to a broad audience. If you're an aspiring data scientist, developer, or tech enthusiast, this book offers a pathway to develop AI applications across industries such as healthcare and finance. Its focus on ethical considerations and scalable solutions reflects the evolving demands of the machine learning field, positioning it as a valuable resource for mastering AI technologies.
2024·521 pages·Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Python Programming, Neural Networks, Deep Learning

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.

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Best for interview preparation in ML design
Machine learning system design interviews can be daunting, but this book offers a methodical approach to tackling them. It provides a 7-step framework supported by detailed examples from real companies, helping you understand how to design complex ML systems. With 211 diagrams and practical case studies covering everything from video recommendation to ad click prediction, it’s designed for engineers at any level preparing for interviews or aiming to deepen their system design knowledge. This resource addresses a critical gap by clarifying what interviewers seek and how to present your ideas effectively in high-stakes discussions.
2023·294 pages·Machine Learning, System Design, Interview Preparation, Frameworks, Case Studies

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.

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Best for probabilistic machine learning theory
Kirk Borne, principal data scientist at Booz Allen and a leading voice in data science, highlights this book as a critical resource for mastering machine learning through a probabilistic lens. His endorsement reflects not only his expertise but also the book's alignment with the needs of professionals navigating big data and AI challenges. He points to its comprehensive 1100 pages spread across 28 chapters packed with insights into algorithms and statistical literacy. For those seriously invested in data science, Borne’s recommendation carries weight, signaling a resource that bridges academic depth with practical relevance. Alongside him, Adam Gabriel Top Influencer, an AI expert and engineer, echoes this enthusiasm, further underscoring the book's value for those driven to deepen their machine learning knowledge.
KB

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)

2012·1104 pages·Machine Learning, Learning Algorithms, Machine Learning Model, Probabilistic Models, Deep Learning

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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Proven Machine Learning Methods, Personalized

Get expert-validated strategies tailored to your unique Machine Learning goals and background.

Tailored learning paths
Expert-endorsed content
Focused skill building

Trusted by thousands of Machine Learning enthusiasts worldwide

The AutoML Blueprint
30-Day ML Mastery
ML Strategy Code
The Neural Network Formula

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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