Why did great civilizations of the past collapse, and how likely is it that ours will, too? Jared Diamond tackles big and vital questions. ... a fascinating excursion into the latest scholarship ... Collapse is a magisterial effort packed with insight and written with clarity and enthusiasm. It's also the deal of the year -- the equivalent of a year's college course by an engaging, brilliant professor, all for the price of a book. Skirting the disaster ahead | 
