Neil

This is an appalling work of staggering ignorance. Phew, now that that's out of the way - [b:State of Fear 15860 State of Fear Michael Crichton https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1388212698s/15860.jpg 1749610] is actually a decent read. It has all the hallmarks of an excellent [a:Michael Crichton 5194 Michael Crichton https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1359042651p2/5194.jpg] novel: suspense, intrigue, conspiracies, twists, bad science. Unfortunately, Mr. Crichton built the entire premise of the book upon fear mongering, finger pointing, and deplorably bad science. I cannot in good conscience recommend this book to anyone.

Almost every single item we buy these days, no matter how small or insignificant, comes with an owner's manual or user's guide. Why should economics, one of the most powerful driving forces behind policy and human activity world-wide, be any different?Thankfully, [a:Ha-Joon Chang 95227 Ha-Joon Chang https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1294879177p2/95227.jpg] offers an delightfully written introduction to the world of economics. This primer is witty, featuring quippy stories to keep the reader engaged, yet intellectually stimulating. The explanation of the theoretical underpinnings of economic schools, and their origins, serves to solidify the concepts and help the reader conceptualize the intended use.I keep this book next to my economics textbooks - it gives a healthy perspective to the single-faceted approach favored by most economists these days.[b:Economics The User's Guide 20702125 Economics The User's Guide A Pelican Introduction (Pelican Books) Ha-Joon Chang https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1391421845s/20702125.jpg 40021992] should be required reading for anyone who wishes to consider themselves an informed citizen, understand the basics of economics, or simply read an intelligent discourse.Disclaimer: I received this book for free through Goodreads first reads.

While I was initially skeptical of yet another businessman entering into the political quagmire of Washington, and emerging with insights and a book deal, [a:Paul Brinkley 5876604 Paul Brinkley https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/u_50x66-ccc56e79bcc2db9e6cdcd450a4940d46.png] pleasantly surprised me.For the first quarter to third of the book, I wasn't entirely sold on the concept of the book, nor was I sure that I even liked the author. Was he another businessman telling the government they can't do anything right? Is he trying to privatize the Department of Defense? As the story unfolded, though, I grew to respect and even like the author. (I know, not a required part of any book, but important when the author is the protagonist) Brinkley's nuanced approach to situations separates him from normal political operators. His humanity, willingness to place himself and his team in harms way to improve the lives of the citizens he's working with, and his extraordinary business background make him an excellent guide to economic redevelopment.Overall, I found the book dense and difficult to read at some points - thankfully, I have taken some business and entrepreneurship classes, exposing me to basic economic and business jargon - but nonetheless thoroughly enjoyable and worthwhile.Most importantly, his recommendations for improving US foreign aid and economic development are phenomenal - among the best I've seen so far, and surprising to boot!