Freakonomics by Stephen J. Dubner, Steven Levitt (2005, Hardcover)

First, if you're looking to learn about economics this book probably isn't the best place to start or finish. The book is truly not an economics text. Freakonomics greatest gift is its ability to explain complicated concepts in a simple manner...and to apply the science of ecomonics to questions that are interesting enough to read about.

While some of us may be interested in reading about the how's and why's of Chinese banking policy...but, for whatever reason, scientists seldom seem to write about anything that would interest anyone who is not an expert in the field. Perhaps it is a bit of scholarly snobbishness...or perhaps it is because only esoteric questions are of interest to the "experts." Levitt is different...and has been since he first began publishing as a student. Freakonomics asks questions that are actually INTERESTING...and even relevant...whether you like the answer or not. Each chapter deals with a different economic question...and the answers may change the way you think about child rearing, the way you vote, or maybe just the way you analyze issues in general.

Interesting questions include: Does a higher abortion rate equal a lower violent crime rate? Does reading to your young child increase their performance in school? Why do drug dealers often live with their mothers? Will the name you give your child effect his or her income? The questions are interesting...and the answers, and more importantly the reasons underlying the answers, may surprise you.

My recommendation: Pick this book up the next time you're in the airport...read a chapter or two while waiting for the next plane or while in the air. This is the perfect travel book. You'll be entertained...and I'd be surprised if you didn't learn a thing or two as well.