I haven’t read them yet, but I would say the “Materialist Revision of Maltese History” series by Maltese author Mark Camilleri, there’s one that covers the period 870-1919, and the other one from 1919-1979. He has both books on his blog, unfortunately I haven’t been able to find free versions online. His blog is here

Yes, an Irish/Spanish Republican

What are some good books that cover the North Korean economy?

I’m from Malta and although our government supports Ukraine (diplomatically not so much materially), they recognise that most Maltese wants to remain neutral.

Yes although I should probably re-read it given it has been some time since I last read it.