Another good economics book is a paperback by heretofore unknown economist P.J. O'Rourke. Can't think of the title offhand. It is a quick read and each chapter cuts to the chase in each country's economy he profiles.
He is 2nd to Sowell in writing.
One of the most brilliant minds I have ever read (thought he would disagree).
He also has some funny stroies outside of economics about the "rolling stones" which are just plain funny (non political) which still make me laught.
I love his book "eat the rich".