Back to the Futures: Crashing Dirt Bikes, Chasing Cows, and Unraveling the Mystery of Commodity Futures Markets
About this ebook
Many people believe that only those with a background in economics can understand complicated futures markets. But what if you could learn more about these mysterious markets today—and have fun while doing it? Introducing Back to the Futures—a unique book that explains futures markets through an engaging storytelling format that is sure to keep you entertained.
Agricultural economist Scott Irwin explains in Back to the Futures why it’s essential to understand futures markets, whether you’re talking about grain, cattle, or the largest market of them all—crude oil. These massive markets lie at the heart of our economy, affecting us all. Whether you are a student, aspiring commodity trader, or curious learner, this book will ease you into the world of futures trading without causing unnecessary confusion in the process.
Build the foundation of your futures market education today!
Named one of the top 100 business and non-fiction books of 2023 by Inc. magazine.
“Rousing introduction to and defense of future trading, with stunts.”
—BookLife Reviews by Publishers Weekly
“An entertaining and instructive blend of economic theory and personal remembrance.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“Back to the Futures is a unique, fun, and educational guide to understanding commodities futures.”
—Blue Ink Review
“Back to the Futures brilliantly captures how critical markets have developed over the decades, expertly detailing the major impact they’ve had on business and economic society…a must-read for anyone interested in the field.”
—BookLife Prize
“The book is both educational in content and entertaining, as it reads like a novel. As a continuous student of the markets, I will be going back to the book several times for nuances of the stories and topics. I plan to add it to my students’ course recommended reading list...”
—Commodity Insights Digest
About the author
Dr. Scott H. Irwin, the Laurence J. Norton Chair of Agricultural Marketing at the University of Illinois, is a renowned global thought leader in agricultural economics and a multi-published author of commodity books. His research on commodity markets is highly respected and sought-after by academics, farmers, and industry experts, earning him media interviews with major outlets like The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times.
With over 40,000 followers on social media, Dr. Irwin is the most followed agricultural economist worldwide. He's best known for his work on commodity market speculation and biofuel policy, actively participating in global debates and testifying before prestigious institutions.
In addition, his vision and leadership are a driving force behind innovative agricultural extension programs, including the award-winning farmdoc project, known as the “Wall Street Journal of ag business.” Dr. Irwin's extensive honors and accolades attest to his impact in the field.
A lifelong fascination with commodity markets led him to write Back to the Futures, among other books on commodity markets.
Doug Peterson is a Gold-Medallion-winning author of seventy-nine books and has been a writer for the University of Illinois for over forty years.
Seven of his books are historical novels, with five of them based on real people. For instance, The Disappearing Man tells the true story of Henry “Box” Brown, a slave who mailed himself to freedom. In 1849, Brown escaped by shipping himself in a box from Richmond to Philadelphia. This book was chosen by Canton, Ohio, for its “One Book, One Community” celebration.
Doug has authored forty-two children’s books for the popular VeggieTales series, and he was co-storywriter for the best-selling VeggieTales video, Larry-Boy and the Rumor Weed. He also co-wrote six fantasy comic books and is currently developing a series of American history comic books, illustrated by Marvel artists.
At the University of Illinois, Doug has written for numerous colleges and departments. He specializes in interviewing professors about their research and translating their work into stories that a lay person can understand—much the same as he did with Scott Irwin in Back to the Futures.
In addition to his novels, non-fiction, comic books, and children’s books, Doug has written two stage plays on historical figures and many magazine features and short stories. His short story, “The Career of Horville Sash,” was even made into a music video featuring Grammy-winner Jennifer Warnes. He also co-wrote “Roman Ruins,” part of the best-selling How to Host a Murder mystery role-playing games.
You can find him online at http://www.bydougpeterson.
