Despite the fact that we work in tech, we are not always glued to a screen. Sometimes there are benefits to slowing down the fast-pace of life, and opening a book. Summer is coming, and one of the best ways to pass the time tanning (or burning) is with a good book. We’ve picked our top four favorite books to read this summer.
Superintelligence – Nick Bostrom
Super Intelligence by Nick Bostrom is all about the potential and perils of artificial intelligence. If AI is your thing, you will want to read Bostrom’s comprehensive take on how AI could overrule us one day, and how we can avoid this dangerous path. Bostrom is a Swedish philosopher from the University of Oxford.
The book retails for $18.50 on Amazon.ca.
Machines Like Me – Ian McEwan
Machines Like Me is another book about AI, but it takes place in an alternate reality to our own. Based in an alternate version of the 1980’s in London, England, the story follows a couple who have purchased the newest version of a synthetic human. What unfolds is a confusing and profound moral dilemma of love and what it means to be human. This novel warns about the perils of creating things that are beyond our control.
The book retails for $18.62 on Amazon.ca.
1Q84 – Haruki Murakami
1Q84 follows two very different characters that met as children but now live very different lives apart. Based in Tokyo, Murakami crafts a story of alternate realities, fantasy creatures, two moons in the sky, and sacred cults. It has suspense, love, and danger. What else could you want in a book? If you’re looking for a longer read this summer, this is a great option.
The book retails for $31.50 on Amazon.ca.
Fahrenheit 451 – Ray Bradbury
Fahrenheit 451 could be considered a classic in this day and age. Guy Montag is a fireman, but not in the traditional sense. His job is to start the fires, not put them out; specifically, he lights books on fire. In this world, books are the most illegal of commodities. Screens are ingrained in society, following everyone, every waking minute. It isn’t until Montag’s wife attempts suicide that he starts to question everything around him.
The book retails for $26.09 on Amazon.ca.
We hope these suggestions help with your summer plans. If you pick one up, let us know what you think!