In This Economy?: How Money & Markets Really Work

An illustrated guide to the mad math and terrible terminology of economics, from one of the internet's favorite financial gurus.

The stuff you really need to know about how the economy works? It’s pretty simple. Most of it is as intuitive as Psych 101. Yes, even if you were bored to tears in economics class, or if you’re cross-eyed from reading painfully convoluted—or straight-up misguided—financial commentary. In this particularly disorienting era, many have turned to a young economic analyst named Kyla Scanlon for answers.

Now, Scanlon is writing a definitive, approachable guide to the key concepts and mechanics of economics and the most common myths and fallacies to steer clear of. Through her trademark blend of creative analogies, clever illustrations, refreshingly lucid language—and even quotes from poetry, literature, and philosophy—she answers questions such as:

• What is Fed cred, Fed flexing, and Fedspeak?
• Is our national debt really a threat?
• What is a "mild" recession, exactly?
• If companies are earning record profits, why are consumer costs growing?

At a time when experts overcomplicate simple things loudly, choosing to generate smoke rather than clearing the air, In This Economy? shows that understanding the markets is easier than you think. Whether you’re worried about your mortgage rate, job security, bank account balance, or the health of the broader economy, this quick and dirty guide will give you the confidence to make smarter financial decisions—no matter what the headlines say.