Essef - Set in the same framework as one of his other great books, The Probability Broach, Mr. Smith has created yet another tongue-in-cheek, cynical and sarcastic poke at established society and liberalism. The hero, Bernie Gruenblum, is a delightfully politically incorrect individual; a refreshing character in an age where more and more authors find it impossible to visualize anything controversial. Bernie's one desire is to sit back, enjoy life (preferably a large beer and long cigar with a wench on the side), but keeps getting interupted with crises such as his flying-saucer/time-machine getting hijacked. Again, like his other North American Confederacy books, if you are a liberal or of left wing politics, don't bother. Otherwise it is a GREAT and amusing read.