Back to the Futures

Cracking the code of commodity futures markets

Many people believe that a background in economics is required to understand commodity futures markets. But what if you could learn how these markets work—and have fun while doing it? Introducing Back to the Futures, a book that provides a unique perspective on the world of commodity futures markets, shaped by the personal experiences and professional insights of Dr. Scott Irwin, a leading expert in the field. Readers will learn about the role of speculators, price discovery, the evolution of trading practices, the impact of regulatory measures, the transition from open outcry to electronic trading, commodity investments, and much more. A storytelling format is used throughout that is sure to keep you entertained.

• Experience the author's journey from a farm boy in Iowa to a renowned agricultural economist.
• Gain an inside look into the world of commodity futures trading, with a special focus on the role of speculators.
• Learn from other industry experts, such as Terry Duffy, CEO of the CME Group, the largest futures exchange in the world, and Leo Melamed, the man who revolutionized futures markets with electronic trading.
• Discover why it is essential to understand futures markets, whether you are talking about soybeans, cattle, or the largest market of them all—crude oil.
• Take a front-row seat as the author defends commodity futures markets during the 2008 economic crisis.

Readers of Back to the Futures will gain a rich understanding of commodity futures markets that informs their own trading decisions and investment perspectives. This book is suitable for both novices and experts in the field.

Dr. Scott Irwin, a global thought leader in agricultural economics, has been studying, teaching, and participating in the world of commodity futures since growing up on his family farm in Iowa. His expertise and captivating storytelling abilities make him the ideal guide for this unforgettable journey through the world of commodity trading.

This memoir-meets-economics book has received the following awards:

• 2024 Finalist for the Eric Hoffer Award for Excellence in Independent Publishing
• 2024 Semi-Finalist for the Book Life Prize in Business and Personal Finance
• 2023 Long List Selection for Inc. Magazine’s Non-Obvious Book Awards


“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