20 best books on future – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to explore the realms of the future through the pages of captivating books? Look no further! We have curated a list of the top 20 books about the future that will transport you to dystopian societies, futuristic worlds, and mind-bending scenarios. From classics to contemporary masterpieces, these future books will leave you pondering the possibilities and questioning the trajectory of our own reality. Get ready to embark on an exhilarating literary journey into the unknown!


The Power

by Naomi Alderman

The Power by Naomi Alderman is an electrifying book on the future that will leave you charged with excitement. Set in a world where power dynamics are flipped on their head, this thought-provoking novel explores a future where women possess a newfound physical power that can be unleashed at will. With an innovative and gripping narrative style, Alderman takes us on a thrilling journey through a future that is both exhilarating and unsettling. Brace yourself for a shocking and electrifying read that will leave you questioning the very nature of power and authority. Get ready to be hooked on this pulse-pounding future book!

The Water Will Come: Rising Seas, Sinking Cities, and the Remaking of the Civilized World

by Jeff Goodell

Imagine a future where our cities are slowly succumbing to the relentless rise of the seas. This is the captivating scenario that Jeff Goodell paints in his thought-provoking book, The Water Will Come: Rising Seas, Sinking Cities, and the Remaking of the Civilized World.

Goodell takes us on a gripping journey into the future, exploring the devastating consequences of climate change and rising sea levels. Through his meticulous research and compelling storytelling, he unveils the challenges that lie ahead for coastal cities and the urgent need for adaptation.

This book about the future is not a work of fiction but a wake-up call to the very real and imminent threats that our planet faces. Goodell’s narrative is both eye-opening and alarming, as he reveals the potential for entire cities to be swallowed by the encroaching waters.

With each chapter, Goodell delves into the stories of those affected by rising sea levels, from the residents of Miami Beach to the inhabitants of the tiny Pacific island nation of Kiribati. He examines the political, economic, and environmental implications of these changes, forcing us to confront the difficult decisions that lie ahead.

By weaving together scientific research, personal anecdotes, and interviews with experts, Goodell offers a comprehensive analysis of the future we may face. He challenges us to consider the dire consequences of inaction while highlighting the innovative solutions that could help us adapt to this new reality.

Overall, The Water Will Come is a captivating and sobering book on the future of our planet. Goodell’s engaging writing style keeps readers hooked from start to finish, reminding us that the time to act is now. As we navigate the uncertain waters of climate change, this book serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving the world we call home.

The Future of Humanity: Terraforming Mars, Interstellar Travel, Immortality, and Our Destiny Beyond Earth

by Michio Kaku

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey into the unknown? Look no further than Michio Kaku’s captivating masterpiece, The Future of Humanity: Terraforming Mars, Interstellar Travel, Immortality, and Our Destiny Beyond Earth. This groundbreaking book about the future will ignite your imagination and take you on a mind-bending exploration of what lies ahead for humanity.

In this awe-inspiring book on future possibilities, Kaku, a world-renowned theoretical physicist, delves deep into the realms of science fiction becoming science fact. He unravels the mysteries of terraforming Mars, revealing how our species could transform the barren red planet into a habitable oasis, ensuring our survival and expanding our civilization beyond Earth.

But that’s not all. Kaku’s vision extends far beyond our neighboring planet. He delves into the mind-boggling prospects of interstellar travel, where we could journey to distant star systems and encounter alien lifeforms. With his characteristic clarity and scientific expertise, Kaku explores the mind-bending concepts of warp drives, wormholes, and other mind-boggling technologies that could make interstellar travel a reality.

However, Kaku doesn’t stop at the boundaries of our universe. He also unveils the tantalizing prospect of immortality, a future where death becomes a mere inconvenience. By examining the latest breakthroughs in genetics, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence, Kaku presents a thought-provoking exploration of how we could conquer aging and achieve eternal life.

Prepare to have your mind stretched to its limits as Kaku guides you through the frontiers of science and imagination. His engaging storytelling and profound insights will leave you inspired, awestruck, and yearning for the future that awaits us. So, grab a copy of this future book, fasten your seatbelt, and get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey towards humanity’s destiny beyond Earth.

The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power

by Shoshana Zuboff

Are you ready to dive into the intriguing world of surveillance capitalism? Shoshana Zuboff’s groundbreaking book on the future, ‘The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power’, is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the profound impact of technology on our lives.

In this captivating exploration, Zuboff introduces us to the concept of surveillance capitalism, a new form of power that has emerged in the digital age. She reveals how corporations have harnessed our personal data to create a lucrative economy centered around surveillance and targeted advertising. This future book serves as a wake-up call, urging us to question the ethical implications of this system, and challenging us to reclaim our right to privacy and autonomy.

Zuboff’s writing is both thought-provoking and accessible, making complex ideas easy to grasp. She masterfully weaves together historical context, technological advancements, and personal stories to paint a vivid picture of the present and future implications of surveillance capitalism. As you delve into this future book, you’ll find yourself questioning the role of technology in our lives and pondering the potential consequences of its unchecked growth.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a privacy advocate, or simply curious about the future, ‘The Age of Surveillance Capitalism’ is an essential read. Zuboff’s insightful analysis will challenge your perceptions, spark important conversations, and empower you to navigate the complex landscape of our digital world. So, grab a copy, buckle up, and embark on a thrilling journey into the future of power.

The Future Is History: How Totalitarianism Reclaimed Russia

by Masha Gessen

The Future Is History: How Totalitarianism Reclaimed Russia by Masha Gessen is an eye-opening and thought-provoking book about the future of Russia. With its captivating narrative and insightful analysis, this book on the future takes readers on a journey through the rise of totalitarianism in post-Soviet Russia.

The Future of Capitalism: Facing the New Anxieties

by Paul Collier

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey into the realm of tomorrow? Look no further than “The Future of Capitalism: Facing the New Anxieties” by Paul Collier. This captivating book about the future will take you on a thought-provoking exploration of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

With his unique insights and expert analysis, Collier offers a fresh perspective on the future of capitalism. He delves into the pressing issues of our time, from rising inequality to climate change, and presents a compelling vision of what the future might hold. This book on the future is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the world we are heading towards.

In “The Future of Capitalism,” Collier tackles the anxieties that plague our society, providing a roadmap for navigating the complex terrain of the 21st century. Drawing on his extensive research and expertise in economics, he offers practical solutions to some of our most pressing problems.

What sets this future book apart is Collier’s ability to bridge the gap between academia and the real world. He presents complex ideas in a clear and accessible manner, ensuring that readers from all backgrounds can engage with his insights.

So, whether you’re an entrepreneur, a policy-maker, or simply a curious individual eager to understand the world of tomorrow, “The Future of Capitalism” is the book you need. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and enlightened as Collier takes you on an eye-opening journey into the future of our economic system.

The Future of the Mind: The Scientific Quest to Understand, Enhance, and Empower the Mind

by Michio Kaku

The Future of the Mind: The Scientific Quest to Understand, Enhance, and Empower the Mind by Michio Kaku is an utterly captivating book about the incredible possibilities that lie ahead in the realm of the human mind. This remarkable book on the future takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the frontiers of neuroscience and explores the immense potential that awaits us.

The Future of War: A History

by Lawrence Freedman

The Future of War: A History by Lawrence Freedman is not just your average book on the future. It’s a captivating exploration into the ever-evolving nature of warfare throughout history, offering profound insights into what lies ahead. This fascinating future book delves into the intricacies of war, dissecting the past to shed light on the future.

The Future of Power

by Joseph S. Nye Jr.

The Future of Power by Joseph S. Nye Jr. is a captivating book on the future that delves into the fascinating world of global politics and international relations. Nye, a renowned political scientist, explores the evolving dynamics of power in our ever-changing world.

In this thought-provoking book about the future, Nye challenges traditional notions of power and introduces the concept of “soft power,” which refers to a country’s ability to influence others through noncoercive means such as culture, diplomacy, and values. He argues that in an increasingly interconnected world, the use of soft power is becoming just as important as military might.

Nye’s insightful analysis takes readers on a journey through the complexities of power in the 21st century, addressing key issues such as cyber warfare, climate change, and economic interdependence. He explores the ways in which nations can leverage their power to achieve their objectives, offering valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the future book of global power.

By blending historical context, theoretical frameworks, and real-world examples, Nye presents a compelling argument for a more nuanced understanding of power in the future. His engaging writing style and wealth of knowledge make this future book an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our world.

The Future of Work: Robots, AI, and Automation

by Darrell M. West

Darrell M. West’s The Future of Work: Robots, AI, and Automation is a fascinating book that takes us on a thrilling journey into the world of tomorrow. In this captivating book on the future, West explores the impact of robots, artificial intelligence, and automation on our work and society.

The Future of the Professions: How Technology Will Transform the Work of Human Experts

by Richard Susskind and Daniel Susskind

The Future of the Professions: How Technology Will Transform the Work of Human Experts by Richard Susskind and Daniel Susskind is a captivating book about the future of various professions in an increasingly technology-driven world. This groundbreaking book on the future explores the profound impact that advancements in technology will have on traditional professions, such as law, medicine, education, and more.

The authors, Richard Susskind and Daniel Susskind, present a thought-provoking analysis of how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and automation, will reshape the way professionals work. Through their insightful research and compelling arguments, they challenge the conventional wisdom that human expertise will always be irreplaceable.

By dissecting the fundamental functions of different professions, the book provides a roadmap for how technology will revolutionize the way we deliver and consume professional services. It discusses the potential benefits, such as increased efficiency and accessibility, as well as the potential risks, such as job displacement and loss of human interaction.

The book about the future goes beyond mere speculation and delves into practical examples and case studies that illustrate the transformative power of technology. It explores how online platforms, virtual reality, and data-driven decision-making will reshape the landscape of professions, paving the way for new models of practice and collaboration.

Whether you are a professional seeking to adapt to the changing times or simply curious about how technology will shape our future, this thought-provoking future book offers a compelling vision of what lies ahead. It challenges us to reconsider our assumptions about the role of experts and invites us to embrace the opportunities that technological innovation can bring.

The Future of the Internet and How to Stop It

by Jonathan Zittrain

In his groundbreaking book on the future of the internet, Jonathan Zittrain takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the digital landscape, examining the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. This thought-provoking and captivating book about the future sheds light on the evolving nature of technology and how it impacts our lives.

The Future of Freedom: Illiberal Democracy at Home and Abroad

by Fareed Zakaria

The Future of Freedom: Illiberal Democracy at Home and Abroad by Fareed Zakaria is a thought-provoking book about the future of democracy and its potential challenges. Zakaria, a renowned journalist and political scientist, explores the rise of illiberal democracies around the world and the implications they hold for the future.

In this insightful book on the future, Zakaria argues that democracy alone is not enough to guarantee freedom and prosperity. While illiberal democracies may have regular elections, they lack the necessary institutions and values that protect individual rights and ensure the rule of law.

Zakaria delves into the historical context of democracy, tracing its origins and development. He highlights the distinction between liberal democracy, which combines political freedom with constitutional checks and balances, and illiberal democracy, which often leads to the concentration of power in the hands of a few.

The author examines various case studies, including Russia, Turkey, and Venezuela, to illustrate the challenges faced by illiberal democracies. He analyzes the erosion of democratic norms, the suppression of media and civil society, and the manipulation of electoral processes.

However, Zakaria does not paint a bleak picture of the future. He believes that there is hope for the continuation of democratic progress. By promoting the importance of a vibrant civil society, a free press, and the rule of law, societies can safeguard their democratic institutions and prevent the slide into illiberalism.

Overall, The Future of Freedom: Illiberal Democracy at Home and Abroad is a compelling book about the future of democracy. Zakaria’s analysis and insights challenge conventional wisdom and provide a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding democracy in the modern world. It serves as a timely reminder of the ongoing struggle to maintain and strengthen democratic values in an ever-changing global landscape.

The Future of Life

by Edward O. Wilson

The Future of Life by Edward O. Wilson is an enthralling book about the future that takes readers on a captivating journey through the interconnectedness of our world. Wilson, a renowned biologist and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, delves into the pressing issues that our planet faces and offers a thought-provoking perspective on how we can shape the future for the better.

This visionary book on the future illuminates the intricate web of life that exists on Earth, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and the urgent need to protect it. Wilson explores the devastating impact of human activities on ecosystems and highlights the dire consequences of species extinction. With a sense of urgency, he urges us to take immediate action to preserve the wonders of our planet before it’s too late.

Wilson’s writing is both captivating and enlightening, as he seamlessly weaves together scientific insights, personal anecdotes, and philosophical reflections. His passion for the natural world shines through every page, inspiring readers to develop a deeper connection with nature and become active participants in its conservation.

This remarkable future book challenges us to reconsider our relationship with the environment and calls for a more sustainable and harmonious coexistence with other species. Wilson’s optimistic yet realistic vision offers hope for a brighter future, where we can safeguard the incredible diversity of life that thrives on our planet.

Whether you are an environmental enthusiast, a curious reader, or simply someone interested in understanding the future of our world, The Future of Life is a must-read that will leave you with a renewed sense of awe and a profound appreciation for the wonders of our planet.

The Future of the Mind: The Scientific Quest to Understand, Enhance, and Empower the Mind

by Michio Kaku

The Future of the Mind: The Scientific Quest to Understand, Enhance, and Empower the Mind by Michio Kaku is a captivating book about the future of our most extraordinary asset – the human mind. In this thought-provoking exploration, Kaku takes us on a mind-bending journey into the realm of neuroscience and cutting-edge technology.

This book on the future delves into the mysteries of consciousness, memory, and intelligence, pushing the boundaries of what we thought was possible. Kaku paints a vivid picture of a world where telepathy, telekinesis, and even uploading our consciousness into computers may no longer be confined to the realms of science fiction.

With his characteristic enthusiasm and expertise, Kaku unveils groundbreaking research and experiments, introducing us to scientists who are using advanced technologies to unravel the secrets of the mind. From mind-controlled robotic limbs to the potential to record and playback our dreams, this future book offers a glimpse into a world where our minds may be harnessed like never before.

As Kaku explores the potential for mind-to-mind communication and the ability to manipulate our thoughts and emotions, he also raises thought-provoking ethical questions. With the immense power that comes with understanding and enhancing the mind, how do we ensure that it is used for the greater good?

Engaging and accessible, The Future of the Mind takes readers on an awe-inspiring journey through the frontiers of neuroscience and technology. It challenges us to imagine the limitless possibilities that lie ahead, where the mind has the potential to shape our world in ways we have only begun to comprehend.

The Future of Capitalism: Facing the New Anxieties

by Paul Collier

Are you ready to dive into a thought-provoking journey through the complexities of our modern society? Look no further than The Future of Capitalism: Facing the New Anxieties by Paul Collier. This captivating book on the future delves into the challenges and anxieties that lie ahead, offering a fresh perspective on the world we are building for the next generation.

The Future of War: A History

by Lawrence Freedman

The Future of War: A History, written by Lawrence Freedman, is a captivating exploration into the ever-evolving nature of conflict. In this thought-provoking book about the future, Freedman delves into the intricacies of warfare throughout history, skillfully weaving together past events and present trends to shed light on what lies ahead. This remarkable future book offers a fresh perspective on the challenges and possibilities that await us in an ever-changing world.

The Future of Power

by Joseph S. Nye Jr.

The Future of Power by Joseph S. Nye Jr. is a captivating book on the future that takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the shifting landscape of global power. In this thought-provoking book about the future, Nye explores the evolving dynamics of power and offers insightful predictions on how power will shape the world in the years to come. With his extensive knowledge and expertise, Nye provides a nuanced understanding of the forces that will dominate the future and the strategies that nations and individuals can employ to navigate this ever-changing landscape. Whether you are a political enthusiast, a business leader, or simply curious about the world that lies ahead, this future book will leave you inspired and equipped with a deeper understanding of the complex web of power that binds us all.

The Future of Work: Robots, AI, and Automation

by Darrell M. West

The Future of Work: Robots, AI, and Automation by Darrell M. West is a captivating book about the impending technological revolution that will shape our world. This thought-provoking book on the future delves into the rise of robots, artificial intelligence, and automation, offering insights into how these advancements will impact the workforce and society as a whole.

The Future of the Professions: How Technology Will Transform the Work of Human Experts

by Richard Susskind and Daniel Susskind

The Future of the Professions: How Technology Will Transform the Work of Human Experts is a groundbreaking book on the future that delves into the profound changes technology will bring to various professions. Co-authored by father and son, Richard Susskind and Daniel Susskind, this thought-provoking book about the future challenges conventional wisdom and invites readers to reimagine the role of experts in a rapidly evolving world.

With the advent of artificial intelligence, automation, and other digital technologies, the authors argue that the traditional ways in which professionals have operated for centuries are no longer sustainable. They paint a compelling picture of a future where technology plays a central role in the delivery of professional services, impacting fields such as law, medicine, education, and more.

The Susskinds prompt us to question the exclusivity of knowledge and expertise, suggesting that technology will democratize access to information and reshape the way professionals interact with clients. They explore various scenarios where machines take on tasks previously performed by human experts, and argue that this transition will ultimately lead to greater efficiency, affordability, and accessibility in professional services.

Throughout the future book, the authors provide numerous real-world examples and case studies that illustrate the potential of technology to revolutionize professions. They also address the concerns and anxieties surrounding these changes, offering insights into how professionals can adapt and thrive in the digital age.

The Future of the Professions is a thought-provoking manifesto that challenges our preconceived notions about the role of experts. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding how technology will shape the professions of tomorrow, and how professionals can embrace these changes to create a better future for all.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the future holds endless possibilities and mysteries waiting to be explored. These 20 books about the future offer captivating narratives, thought-provoking ideas, and unique perspectives on what lies ahead. From dystopian societies to scientific advancements, these books take readers on thrilling journeys through time and space. Whether you’re a science fiction enthusiast or simply curious about what the future may hold, these books are sure to expand your imagination and leave you contemplating the possibilities. So, grab a copy of one of these books about the future and embark on an exciting adventure that will transport you to worlds yet to be discovered.