Wondering if the cryptoverse already reached the peak of its popularity and you’re late to the party? Think again: it’s soaring to new heights in 2024.
Strategic advisor Bernard Marr points out that cryptocurrencies are penetrating mainstream finance as more governments release their own digital currencies, and the blockchain continues to find new use cases — such as helping combat online disinformation.
Even major brands ranging from Coca-Cola to Disney are now in the metaverse. So if you’re just starting to get into Web3 and all the emerging technologies that come along with it, don’t worry. The cryptoverse continues to grow, and when it comes to familiarizing yourself with all it involves, it’s better late than never.
Arguably, the best way to do so is by picking up some books about it. They’ll be written by experts in engaging formats that will keep you wanting to learn more — and, more importantly, they’ll act as crucial references you can keep coming back to if you need to revisit a particular point or concept. That said, they’re sure to provide more reliable insights than resources like YouTube videos.
But with all the information available on the cryptoverse, which titles should you start with? Here’s a quick list of the best books you can read if you’re just getting started on your journey.
1. The Basics of Bitcoins and Blockchains by Antony Lewis
A great way to establish your knowledge of cryptocurrencies and the blockchains that host them is by looking back to the token that started it all: Bitcoin. In Everand’s investments and securities bestseller The Basics of Bitcoins and Blockchains, technologist Antony Lewis outlines beginner-friendly information on Bitcoin’s history and how you can buy, sell, and mine it. If you want to buy tokens, this book can even tell you what you need to know before investing in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
2. Blockchain Technology by Sonali Vyas et al.
If you’re more interested in how the blockchain can be used both within and outside finance, try Blockchain Technology (Smart Innovation). As a result of the collaboration between professors from multiple universities, this introductory book covers a wide range of blockchain use cases. That includes its applications in cryptocurrency, government services, digital forensics, the energy and music industries, and even digitized land registration — perfect if you’re looking for an easily digestible overview of this emerging technology.
3. Beeple: Everydays, the First 5000 Days by Michael Winkelmann
You may not know Michael Winkelmann, but you may know bestselling graphic artist Beeple. He’s famous for selling the most expensive non-fungible tokens (NFTs) in history — so if you’re looking to dive deep into this particular corner of the cryptoverse, his book Beeple: Everydays, the First 5000 Days is a great way to get started. Beyond documenting his renowned collage of photos taken daily since May 2007, this work will also tell you how Winkelmann grew his career as an NFT artist. Pick this up if you want a visual masterpiece that will teach you about the inner workings of NFT art — while also serving as a great coffee table book.
4. The Metaverse and How It Will Revolutionize Everything by Matthew Ball
Arguably, one of the most exciting aspects of Web3 is the metaverse: a network of virtual worlds you can interact with online. If you want to learn more about what it is, how it works, and the absolutely limitless number of possibilities it offers, The Metaverse and How It Will Revolutionize Everything you need to check out. This seminal work is written by leading metaverse theorist Matthew Ball, who’ll take you through all the key definitions and concepts you need to know. And if you’re wondering what to expect in the future, Ball will tell you all about how the metaverse will eventually be the gateway to practically every online experience—from gaming to city planning—reshaping modern society in the process.
If you’re new to the cryptoverse, the amount of information you need to absorb can be overwhelming. Try these beginner-friendly books to kickstart your journey.
