> Basic Economics, by Thomas Sowell.
> His style is readable, and enjoyable-taking economic principles decades, even centuries old, and applying them to recent events. Everyone ought to read it.

Happy birthday, Mark. I'm a huge Thomas Sowell fan myself, although I haven't had the chance to read _Basic Economics_ yet. My favourite thing about Dr Sowell's work is that he always presents his ideas in such a sensible and understandable manner that I can easily apply them to other situations. If you're looking for more in the same vein, I heartily recommend the works of economist Walter E Williams of George Mason University. This gentleman has really sharpened my understanding of economics, and I can't recommend him highly enough to another Sowell fan. Enjoy the rest of the book!