5 Books Every Data Scientist Should Own

I feel like the title says it all lets dive in!

1) The MIT Press Essential Knowledge Series: Data Science by John D. Kelleher and Brendan Tierney

One of the first books I bought to pre read for my MSc in Data Science and one of the last books I needed to sell me on a career in data science. Mind bending facts sprinkled throughout an easily digestible book. This is a great starting point for anyone considering a career in data science or just curious as to what data science is (for my explanation of what it is check out this post). With a look at the subjects history, evolution, current uses and ethical dilemmas. I love books which convey complex topics in simple terms, so for me this is at the top of the list when it comes to must have books for Data Scientists.

2) Weapons of Math Destruction by Cathy O'Neil

W.O.M.D. exposes the darkside of big data and algorithmic bias. With diverse examples of how algorithms have impacted people's lifes in peculiar ways. Broadening your view on just how accurate these algortihms are getting, but also how they impact our daily lives beyond repeatedly reccomending cat videos to us on instagram. Bias in its' nature this is not a book that inspires people to start programming algorithms but serves as a stark warning for anyone currently working with data and the ramifications their career has on society.

3) Cryptonomicon by Neal Stephenson

My first fiction book. 918 pages of a cryptographic multiperspectivity. Cryptonomicon serves as a great read for your commute (I was going to write for a hot summers day but combined with heat this would proably melt someones brain). Based in two different time periods. One in a World War II-era, with allied cryptographers and tactical-deception operatives associated with Bletchley Park. The second in the late 1990s, with descendants of those of the earlier time period, who employ cryptologic, telecom, and computer technology to build an underground data haven in the fictional Sultanate of Kinakuta.

4) Doing Data Science: Straight Talk from the Frontline by Rachel Schutt and Cathy O'Neil

An all encompassing book for everything data science. I don't think I've referenced another book as much during my higher education and career in data science. Offering a plethora of knowledge including but not limited to: Statistical Inference, Exploratory Data Analysis, Algorithms, Naive Bayes, Logistic Regression, Financial Modelling. Whilst exploring soft skills like extracing and communicating meaning from data. Even at the end discussing (SPOILER) the next generation of data scientists, hubris and ethics. This really is every data scientists swiss army knife (I should've put it higher in the list above W.O.M.D. sorry Cathy).

5) The Data Revolution: Big Data, Open Data, Data Infrastructures & Their Consequences by Rob Kitchin

Acknowledging data as the new gold. This book is more on the academic side and not a light read but provides a critical analysis of the new age of data and its infrastrucure. Discussing the social, political and ethical consequences of this data revolution in the contexts of academic, business and governments. Big words and political discussions all of which I enjoy in small and relevant doses hence why this book is number 5 but a necessary to have on your shelf.