Ten Books Every ECON Student Should Read

Abstract In the aftermath of the financial crisis, student groups demonstrated against mainstream economics with its emphasis on abstract mathematical models at the expense of real-world issues. To this end, I have reviewed ten books, published in the last five years, to introduce students to the criticisms leveled against mainstream textbook theory, to offer diverse perspectives, to address contemporary challenges including climate change and economic inequality, to introduce modern monetary theory, and to highlight the limitations of radical left-wing rhetoric. These books confirm that the way ahead in economics education is through addressing real-world issues and upholding pluralist perspectives.