This is a very useful introductory book in macroeconomic theory for readers with historical interests. The author presents and compares the assumptions of classical economics (Smith, Ricardo), Keynesian macroeconomics, monetarist theory (Friedman) and their modern variants in a thorough manner. He notes the events and interpretations of economic history which in each case led to dissatisfaction with the old models. Personally, I like this style a lot better than the traditional textbook style which stays fixed to the latest theory without putting it into any kind of historical perspective.

This is definitely my intermediate macroeconomics text of choice. I realise that this isn't exactly the most popular text around but I highly recommend it. It has a lot less fluff, is lighter to carry around, and is very focused on the basics. The author very clearly develops the IS-LM -BP models and the diagrames are the clearest I've seen. My main beef is that the problems are too easy. Still, it's a fantastic book. If you have to learn basic macro on your own, use this.