Mathematics for the Million, Lancelot Hogben.

This is a wonderful collection of mathematical ideas and history. It has nice drawings, easy to read and understand equations, and lots of stimulating discussion of how math became critical to our culture.

Jefferson and His Time, Dumas Malone, 5 Volumes. For anyone interested in one of the founding fathers, these series of books is the first place to start.

The Foundation Trilogy, Isaac Asimov. This was the first science fiction book I read. I'm not a science fiction fan, but this book opened my eyes to worlds beyond our small terrestrial home.

The Cycles of American History, Arthur Schlesinger. This is a book about history but not really a history book. Like other Schlesinger books it creates more questions than it answers.

Capitalism and Freedom, Milton Friedman. Although in the 14th edition this book should be read by anyone interested in the history of our capitalist society. I teach our children the difference between working for wages and being a capitalist. Capitalist use money to generate wealth. Unless they understand this, they'll work for wages like me.

History of Western Philosophy, Bertrand Russell.

This tour of western thought is mandatory reading for anyone claiming to have an understand of philosophy. For that matter it should be mandatory reading for anyone with responsibility for others.