My parents are both libs but are interested enough in socialism to agree to read a book on the topic with me. Do any of you have a suggestion for a good introduction? I am preferably looking for a relatively modern book with casual language, I was thinking I might use Socialist Reconstruction from the PSL.
David Graeber’s Debt: the First 5000 Years is probably the best pipeline book I'm aware of. It works to dig out deeply set brainworms and normalizes the concept of communism in a way that squares it with the anthropological record, framing it as the normal state of things rather than an exotic experimental concept.
I would second this. Book literally change my life and I've bought copies for many friends and family members. It might be a little long looking though. If parents aren't regular readers, might want to go with something a little less intimidating. The text itself is fairly easy to understand and as far as "academic" books go, it's a breezy read. But it's certainly long and exhaustive.
Yeah they don't really read so that length might be a big ask but I will look into it for sure
Graeber - Bullshit Jobs
I loan it out on the reg and people always come back wanting to know more.
Have to second this rec, it frames a lot of the topics in a way that is approachable and not doomer-y
