Economic Literacy: What Everyone Needs to Know About Money & Markets

Gross domestic product, business cycles, Consumer Price Index, prime rate, terms we read in the newspapers but possibly don't fully comprehend. With humor, clarity, and a deft touch for simplifying complex ideas, Jacob De Rooy explains the basic concepts of economics in language anyone can understand. Written in accessible question-and-answer format, and divided into 26 concise articles, the book can be used in two ways: read straight through as a short course in economics, or dipped into as a reference work. Throughout the text, anecdotal examples illustrate economic ideas in real-life terms. For anyone involved in the world of business, Economic Literacy will be an invaluable companion.

I bought this in the late 90s at a used book shop. It is great reading and very useful for non-economists, the general public, and even for those who are studying economics at the undergraduate level. The book covers the major parts of the economy and can be used as casual reading as well as a reference work. It has a unique structure -- 5 major chapters each of which consists of a collection of 2-3 page articles. You can jump from one chapter to another, and you can pick and read individual articles within each chapter, without loss of continuity. It also has a unique index: not only includes key terms (indicated in bold in the index), but the names of the articles themselves. Everything is explained in plain English so you do not have to worry about being overwhelmed by technical jargon. Examples are from daily life and are very clearly explained. My only complaint is that I wish the author had updated the book.

What an awesome book! I recently began reading this book and have already fallen in love with DeRooy's style. He is an expert in clarifying complex ideas. I am only a general reader with a thirst for knowledge and this book is certainly recommended to those like myself. If only Jacob DeRooy were proficient in other subjects that interest me; he would do some great writing that will help educate the ignorant.

I always thought that economics and fun dont go together very well, but the author of this book proved me wrong. By using real life examples as often as possible (and being as funny as possible), the author manages to produce one of the best written introductions (if not the best) about the subject.

The economics course as taught in the classroom sometimes revolves around a lot of theory and leaves a poor connection to the real world. This book is the perfect bridge between theory as taught in college and the pragmatic side of the economy in the after-college world. If you are a business student (BBA or MBA),an entrepreneur or a simple citizen that wants to grasp the real deal of economics you should buy this book. After reading this book you will become a knowldegeable person in the practical side of economics with a broad view to make safe and sound arguments about economics with your professor,colleagues and friends. You might even impress them!

De Rooy easy to read commentary is simplistic yet thorough. I own the Idiot's Guide to Economics and Economics for Dummies, but these books do not compare with with Economic Literacy. I strongly urge this as a buy for anyone who wants to learn about the fascinating world of $$$.