'A straightforward and lively commentary that will introduce people to many central themes of Adam Smith's great book.' Sam Fleischacker, University of Illinois, Chicago

'An indispensable guide to a foundational text in modern economics and the liberal tradition, Jerry Evensky's work offers an engaging, accessible, and systematic review of the Wealth of Nations, and indeed does so in a way that helps us to appreciate the connections between Adam Smith's economics and his moral philosophy.' Ryan Patrick Hanley, Marquette University

'Amid the vast interpretive literature on Adam Smith's great book there has never been a book-length reader's guide until now. Chapter by chapter, Jerry Evensky, a noted Smith specialist, gently leads the reader through the entirety of Smith's book. By focusing on the institutional and evolutionary background of the work, Evensky carefully weaves together the ethical, legal, and economic facets of Smith's massive inquiry into the human condition without getting bogged down in sticky points of interpretation. While aimed at his fellow scholars, the book is appropriate for, and deserves, a wide readership among the general public. Smith's wisdom is as relevant today as it was when he was alive.' Jeffrey T. Young, St Lawrence University