Dictionaries: The Art and Craft of Lexicography

This deserves a qualified five star rating. Qualified, in the sense that you need to have some interest in lexicography and history. Not a degree, mind you, but more than a distant interest. At times, it does get a little long-winded, but stay with it. Some interesting stories and good insight into a world that we often don't see, but we use its results quite frequently. Fairly easy to read, no more difficult than high school reading materials (probably easier than that). Give it a try, at least start and browse.

An excellent introduction to the world of dictionaries. Well-informed and well-written.