Mark Anderson hasnt given up on the United States, not at all. But hes deeply disillusioned, and savors the low professional profile he maintains as a small-college American Studies instructor in New Hampshire.

But when his son (the young are always hopeful, he reminds himself) comes up with a scheme that even Mark thinks might work--a way to bring the Independent voters together as a coherent force--his life changes. His lifelong friend and classmate, Herb Meyer, along with another classmate, iconoclastic Tom Swensen, join Mark in what they all think will be a manageable enterprise. But events begin to outrun the three friends' expectations, and move them into a fast-paced adventure. Many twists and turns lead to a severe crisis--for them and for the nation.

As the national election of 2008 looms, explore with Mark and his friends and adversaries where the conditions of today could lead us in the near future. This is a thoughtful, action-packed tale with vividly drawn characters who are independent, daring and informed, and who choose to run increasingly large risks. These characters give dramatic meaning to the word citizen.