This is a very readable, recent, and comprehensive history of Burma, touching upon the old imperial kingdoms up to events in 2006. The best sections are of Burma under British rule, Thant Myint-U's specialty. However, this is a great intro.

Still a good academic introduction to Burma by a longtime Burma watcher, but there have been so many recent events since its publication.

One of the few academic works that combines the views of Burmese exiles and Westerners. Some very interesting articles

A real adventure story. Wildlife Conservation Society scientist Alan Rabinowitz tells of his encounters with ethnic minority groups, wildlife, and Burma's dreaded generals. A surprisingly candid account.

An excellent book, although it is on the academic side for most readers. It deals almost exclusively with colonial Burma and the collapse of the country's institutions.

One of the more interesting books by Aung San Suu Kyi, it deals with her views on Burma's culture, poverty, and politics

A good look at the history of the ethnic minorities and the problems of British rule. Understanding the ethnic minorities is key to understanding the scope of the political problems Burma faces today.

More of Aung San Suu Kyi, plus other democracy heroes in Burma

One of the few serious biographies of any major Burmese leader in modern history. Aung San Suu Kyi has already played a crucial role as Burma's opposition leader, and if things go well she could well be a future political leader in the country. It is long, but very readable. Highlights include Aung San Suu Kyi facing down troops in the Irrawaddy Delta.

A fascinating study of how trees have shaped Burma's history, from the British logging teak for their navy to the current disputes with ethnic minorities

Has some sections on the problems of jade mining in northern Burma. The accounts in this book are truly harrowing, including massive HIV and drug problems in jade mines. It is a good reminder of how incompetent and indifferent government can cause massive human suffering.

If you ever wondered what things would have been like had the Burmese army not launched a coup in 1962, this book gives you a good idea. It discusses political life in Burma during the 1950s in detail.

A very old, long and dull book describing the history of pre-colonial Burma. If you are interested in precolonial history, it could be a useful reference.