'There is no author whose books I look forward to more than Vaclav Smil'
Oil
A Beginner's Guide
Vaclav SmilPacked with fascinating facts and insight, this book will fuel dinner party debate, and provide readers with the science and politics behind the world’s most controversial resource. Without oil, there would be no globalisation, no plastic, little transport, and a global political landscape that few would recognise. It is the lifeblood of the modern world, and humanity’s dependence upon it looks set to continue for decades to come. In this captivating book, the author of the acclaimed Energy: A Beginner’s Guide, Vaclav Smil, explains all matters related to the ‘black stuff’, from its discovery in the earth, right through to the political maelstrom that surrounds it today.
Reviews
Bill Gates
'Everything most people — including most economists and investment advisors — should know about the physics and economics of oil.'
National Post
'In a fluent, easy style [Smil] delves into the world of oil from its discovery on the ground through to its effect on prices at the petrol pumps, and to its impact on future generations.'
The Good Book Guide
'a well-balanced, concise, and readable synthesis of oil-related facts and history.'
Technology and Culture
