This is not an optimistic book. But I don't view it as a pessimistic book either. It is simply a realistic explanation of where things stand and where, in all likelihood, we are headed.

Dramatic change is coming to the world, but especially to the people of the United States who remain steadfast in their denial that this modern, fossil-fuel dependent, suburban lifestyle is inherently unsustainable. Peak oil, which we are currently at (or perhaps slightly past), will be the main culprit for this change. We can't wish it away. Comparable substitutes for oil are not going to magically appear to save us.

The world, but especially Americans, collectively, are like fools who received a huge cash windfall, immediately spent all of it as fast as they could, all the while assuming that it would either never run out or that some other gift would show up before things got too tight. This is exactly what we have done with oil.

We will be forced to adapt to the new reality, but it is not going to be easy. Being aware of what is happening is the best way to be prepared. Reading this book is a great way to begin to be prepared.