Quantum computing is slowly entering the mainstream, as more people discuss the technology and its potential within the technology ecosystem. However, the specifics of quantum computing can be difficult to understand. So, to help you, I have compiled a selection of books about quantum computing, examining the technology through a practical and technical lens. These recommended titles provide insight into the technology, so you can learn more about this topic, no matter your skill level.
Quantum Computing for Everyone (The MIT Press) by Chris Bernhardt
In this book, author Chris Bernhardt, a mathematician, offers an introduction to quantum computing that is accessible to anyone who is comfortable with high school level mathematics. He explains qubits, entanglement, quantum teleportation, quantum algorithms, and other quantum-related topics as clearly as possible for general readers.
Bernhardt simplifies the mathematics as much as he can and provides elementary examples that illustrate both how the math works and what it means.
Quantum Supremacy: How Quantum Computers will Unlock the Mysteries of Science – and Address Humanity’s Biggest Challenges by Michio Kaku
This book presents an accessible narrative on the emerging potential of quantum computing, framed for readers that are curious about how the technology might influence science, industry, and society. Kaku charts the limits of classical silicon-based processors, suggesting that traditional microchip scaling might be approaching practical constraints, and introduces quantum computers as devices that harness quantum mechanics to perform computations that could be intractable for conventional machines. He explains key concepts, including superposition and entanglement, in clear terms to help readers from diverse technical backgrounds appreciate the principles behind quantum hardware and algorithms.
Quantum Computing: An Applied Approach by Jack D. Hidary
Jack D. Hidary is a research scientist in quantum computing and in AI at Alphabet X, formerly Google X. His book integrates the foundations of quantum computing with a hands-on coding approach. This work is suitable for both academic coursework and corporate technical training.
Part I outlines the necessary foundations of quantum computing and quantum circuits. Part II walks through the canon of quantum computing algorithms and provides code on a range of quantum computing methods in current use. Part III covers the mathematical toolkit required to master quantum computing. Additional resources include a table of operators and circuit elements and a companion GitHub site providing code and updates.
Quantum Computing since Democritus by Scott Aaronson
Written by quantum computing theorist Scott Aaronson, this book takes readers on a tour through some of the deepest ideas of maths, computer science, and physics. Full of insights, arguments, and philosophical perspectives, the book covers a wide array of topics. Beginning in antiquity with Democritus, it progresses through logic and set theory, computability and complexity theory, quantum computing, cryptography, the information content of quantum states, and the interpretation of quantum mechanics. There are also extended discussions about time travel, Newcomb’s Paradox, the anthropic principle and the views of Roger Penrose. The informal style makes this fascinating book accessible to readers with scientific backgrounds, as well as students and researchers working in physics, computer science, mathematics and philosophy.
Quantum Computing Made Simple: A Plain-English Introduction to Quantum Computers by Malcolm Gray
Quantum Computing Made Simple breaks down the world of quantum technology into clear, accessible language anyone can understand. This guide takes you from classical computing fundamentals to quantum innovation without requiring background in physics or advanced mathematics.
It provides a complete introduction to quantum computing, carefully structured to build your understanding step by step. You will explore how classical computers work and why they hit fundamental limits. Then you will venture into the quantum world, where particles behave in ways that challenge everyday intuition. You will learn about qubits, the quantum equivalent of bits, and discover how they exist in multiple states simultaneously through superposition. You will understand entanglement, the mysterious connection linking particles across any distance, and interference, the phenomenon allowing quantum algorithms to amplify correct answers while cancelling wrong ones.
