Books have a special way of shaping our thinking, and for those of us who see economics in everyday life, some stories and lessons stay with us long after we’ve turned the last page. Here are three books that have made a lasting impression on us:

1. A Dangerous Fortune by Ken Follett

Set in the world of high-stakes finance in 19th-century London, this fictional-historical novel traces the rise and fall of a powerful banking dynasty. Follett masterfully captures the early structure of global finance, the role of speculation, and the intricate balance between risk and reputation in banking.

We’re huge fans of Ken Follett. If you are a fan of fictional/historical literatur don’t miss The Pillars of the Earth and the Century Trilogy. Though fiction, they offer rich historical context and often hidden economic lessons about wealth, power, labour, and progress.

2. Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

Yes, it might seem like a surprising pick, but the Harry Potter saga was one of the first stories we couldn’t stop reading. Beyond its magical world-building, it also provides a real-world economics lesson.

Did you know the manuscript was rejected multiple times before being accepted by Bloomsbury? This is now often used as a case study in the economics of the publishing industry. For centuries, traditional publishers were the dominant gatekeepers, deciding what reached readers and what didn’t. Their inability to predict Harry Potter’s market appeal illustrates how centralised decision-making can miss out on true demand.

In recent years, we have seen the rise of self-publishing, a major disruption in the supply chain of literature. It was the first big shock to an industry that had operated with relative stability for centuries.

3. The Shortest History of Economics by Andrew Leigh

This accessible, fast-paced book traces the development of economic ideas from ancient times to today. It’s recommended by prominent economists, including Nobel Laureate Claudia Goldin, who praised its clarity and relevance.

Leigh manages to explain complex economic theories (from Adam Smith to behavioural economics) in ways that feel fresh and practical. It’s a perfect read if you want to connect the dots between historical trends, current economic challenges, and the decisions shaping our future.

Whether it’s fiction that mirrors financial systems, magical tales that expose industry inefficiencies, or crisp overviews of economic theory, these books have all deepened our appreciation for how economics touches every aspect of life. Do you have a favourite economics-related book? Let us know, we’re always looking for the next great read.