Book or other source on the debt of nations

Anyone have recommendations on this subject? Possibly looking for an historical account used to illustrate facts on the topic, especially if it is applicable to the USA's current situation.

I am striking out on this topic on the money board.

I do NOT what a political analysis. I don't want "preaching to the choir." I want an economic thesis with hard hitting analysis, numbers, preferably with historic examples. It is okay if it reads like a textbook.