The world of blockchain and cryptocurrencies is expanding and going mainstream. A few years ago, it was the topic of discussion of a small community. Today, the crypto world is slowly but surely becoming a part of the world we all live in. Blockchain technology becomes a part of many leading industries. And cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin and Ethereum, become accepted forms of payment by an increasing number of merchants.
In this context, many people want to learn more about the concept, the history and the potential future uses of blockchain and cryptocurrencies. They want to have at least a basic knowledge of what these concepts are and how they work.
The first source of information is the internet, of course. However, if you don’t know what to look for, you could fall victim to false information, or get lost among highly specialised topics written by experts and for experts.
To help you find sources of information adapted to your needs, we compiled a list of the best books about Bitcoin, blockchain and cryptocurrency in general:
1. Mastering Bitcoin by Andreas Antonopoulos
Andreas Antonopoulos is an expert in all things crypto. In this book, he shares everything you need to know about using Bitcoin. First of all, you will learn what Bitcoin is and how it works. Then, the author goes through the more technical aspects of Bitcoin network, ideal for developers and software architects.
Andreas updates every new edition with the latest information on the topic.
In addition to that, Andreas’ latest book, Mastering Ethereum, will be available next month. Similar to Mastering Bitcoin, this book is also more of a technical guide for developers. It should teach people the basics of how Ethereum works, as well as how to write smart contracts and DApps.
2. Blockchain Revolution by Don Tapscott and Alex Tapscott
Written by a father-son team, this book is deemed likely to become one of the iconic books of our time
, according to professor Clayton Christensen of Harvard Business School. The authors are also founders of the Blockchain Research Institute, a think tank based in Canada and funded by top companies like IBM, Microsoft and PepsiCo.
Leaving the authors’ reputation aside, the book explains the reasons why blockchain will change our entire world and the way we live and work. The authors start with an answer to the simple question: what is blockchain? Then they move on to explain the potential uses of this technology in various fields from data security to global economy.
The book also deals with the myths and perceived dangers of blockchain, deconstructing them one by one.
3. Digital Gold by Nathaniel Popper
From the elusive figure of Satoshi Nakamoto to the efforts made by the Winklevoss twins, this book covers the entire history of Bitcoin. It goes through its high and low points in a brilliant writing style that keeps the reader hooked.
The author’s remarkable storytelling technique is paired with clear information and explanations for the everyday reader. As a seasoned reporter for New York Times and Lost Angeles Times, Nathaniel Popper has all the skills needed to take a complex story and present it in simple and easy to understand terms.
The Financial Times and McKinsey Business shortlisted Digital Gold for the Business Book of the Year Award.
4. Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Technologies: A Comprehensive Introduction by Arvind Narayana
A professor at Princeton University took on the task to explain the world of cryptocurrencies in layman terms. Together with four other co-authors, Arvind Narayana goes into great detail explaining the origin of crypto assets. He starts with simple concepts and becomes more technical towards the end.
The book features various diagrams that help the readers understand technical concepts. What recommends it, once again, is the depth of detail in explaining every concept connected with cryptography and cryptocurrencies.
5. The Bitcoin Bible by Benjamin Guttmann
Benjamin Guttmann is the editor of this book. The Bitcoin Bible includes many articles, collected from experts, thought leaders and media sources, as well as the author’s own insights. It uses everyday terms to explain the origin of the first cryptocurrency, how it works and how to use it.
It is meant as a comprehensive guide for anyone who wants to become familiar with the topic of cryptocurrencies. While it may not be an ultimate guide to the world of crypto, it is a good starting point. The Bitcoin Bible also has the advantage of presenting various points of view from key stakeholders. Thus, the reader can have an overall, unbiased image about Bitcoin.
If you’re more interested in watching some movies about Bitcoin, click here to see our list of must-watch documentaries. To keep up with the latest crypto and blockchain news and updates, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.
