For general overview stuff I thought Soros’ “New Paradigm for Financial Markets” was really good and an easy read.
For more of a bubble era retrospective thing you might check out Grant’s “Mr. Market Miscalculates.” Grant is a visionary imho, with a vast knowledge of financial history, and he probably understands our monetary system better than anyone. But he is never an easy or fast read so that might not make your cut. (I haven’t actually read this one yet but I know it will be good).
