How Asia Works

Incredibly dry, but very insightful. It reads like an economics book written for economists - except that Studwell does an excellent job of minimizing jargon so us laypeople can understand the concepts being presented.

Transforming a country from “3rd world” to “developed” is an incredibly difficult process, but Studwell breaks down how a handful of east Asian countries did exactly (or oppositely) that - particularly after WWII. Honestly, I feel as if I have a good handle on the steps for success in this situation. For those of us used to free market ideals and never considering concepts such as land reform, How Asia Works is a shocker. However, as you read the book, you'll understand more of the differences between developing and developed country policies and how governments can help society succeed as their countries move from phase to phase.