Freakanomics by Steven Levitt & Steven Dubner - I'm not an economist but this is a fascinating book - really makes you think. It's also a quick read. Also, The Help by Kathryn Stockett an interesting study (fictional) on racial interaction set in Mississippi during the civil rights intensity of the 1960's. Two of the best books I've read in a while. On a totally different note, for pure entertainment I love the Jim Butcher series 'Dresden Files,' very entertaining!
