Author: Tom Gorman

Publisher: ALPHA (Penguin)

ISBN: 0-02-864492-1

This economics installment of the Idiot’s series is 338 pages in length.  The 21 chapters are organized into 6 parts in this softbound book, followed by an appendix (resources for the economically inclined and index).  Having taught micro and macro economics (introductory) courses at the university level, more than a dozen times, I was looking forward to seeing just how the Idiot’s series dealt with the variety of topics dealt with in university texts, more technical in their delivery, but available at a much higher cost.  I was pleasantly surprised.

            This book covers both macro and micro economics.  It includes what the author has characterized as “Economic Indicators,” referred to as (1) EconoTalk, (2) The Real World and (3) EconoTips contained in little boxes throughout the book.

            Coverage begins with the macro view of economics and proceeds to basic charting or graphics and the causes of shifting demand and supply curves.  In this respect, the present book follows the pattern developed and used in most introductory college or university texts on the topic.  The example used for “elasticity,” in chapter 5, is that of gasoline prices.  This is a relevant and contemporary topic that most will be able to easily relate to, and was an excellent vehicle for topical coverage.

This book provides broad brush strokes or introductory coverage on many of the macro and micro economic topics likely to be covered, in greater depth and with the benefit of guidance provided by a lecturer or professor, in a two semester sequence of introductory college or university level courses on these topics.  It is likely to be of interest and is designed for those with no prior formal education or knowledge of economics.  This is exactly what the Idiot’s series promises to those purchasing their books, so, for this target market or audience; I recommend it as a very suitable choice for the first book on the topics of macro economics and/or micro economics.

The above review was contributed by:  Anthony (A.J.) Cataldo II.    Dr. Cataldo holds a PhD from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University , MAc ( University of Arizona)  unofficial minor in Marketing , BSBA  (University of Arizona). He is a Certified Management Accountant and a Certified Public Accountant:  Click Here to view Anthony's Reviews