Book review : Handbook of Caribbean economies [Conrad]

Abstract

The Handbook of Caribbean economies takes into consideration “the region’s unique blend of impediments to growth has generally resulted in a vicious cycle of forces stemming from high levels of debt and severe fiscal constraints” (p. xxvi) and offers alternative policy approaches that will both stabilize Caribbean economies and changing the growth trajectory to achieve sustainable growth and development. The main aim of the book, as highlighted by Routledge Handbooks Online in the book description, is to “illustrate the uniqueness of the economies of the countries and territories of the Caribbean as well as similarities they share with other regions”. Its 462 pages (including bibliography and index) are divided into four (4) parts. Part I comprises of four chapters which address the issue off commonalities. Part II has five chapters which confront obstacles to sustained progress. Part III also has five chapters which discusses external influences. Finally, Part IV comprises fourteen Caribbean country case studies. There are twenty-six contributing authors, in addition to the editor of the book. The experience of contributing authors spans industry practitioners to consultants, a former Central Bank Governor, and a Policy Director. While the academic contributors hail from various sub-fields and from within the broader field of economics. [excerpt]