I must admit that I don’t know much about this niche history prior to reading this. But I think most people who get a thrill from shopping would also enjoy this book. This is written in a simple and short way so probably easy for 5th grade and up to follow. The focus is primarily on the US so it starts with Native Americans and settlers, but no mention of other countries other than a brief mention of early importing. (I liked the brief references to the Betsy/Tacy books and Music Man.) The side note about how Americans previously found happiness from hard work but now got satisfaction through material goods was an interesting and timely comment. I would recommend this to anyone who might be interested in history or really in to shopping, though some adults might find it to brief and lacking depth.

Fun read for a bit of escapism! Yes, definitely share with your friends. Great beach read or as a stocking stuffer!