The civilized nations of the world are not acting very civilized. The undeveloped countries remain undeveloped. While scientists warn of changes in our oceans, fresh water, and atmosphere, various governments continue to struggle with petty, local issues. It is a matter of upmost urgency, a matter of survival, that climate change be addressed. Enter this story.
The setting is neutral territory in North America. A dedicated group of civil servants and philanthropists begin a project intended to postpone the inevitable: a plan to save mankind. To fulfill this mission these pioneers will need to recruit and educate hundreds of workers. A need for secrecy leads to the decision to research and manufacture materials on site if possible.
The growing complex of buildings and warehouses is obvious to the few passers-by. What is not seen is below the surface. One of the new underground facilities is filled with scientists. The community grows and becomes more visible.
As the outside public learns of the achievements, certain profit-minded factions secretly attempt to learn more, and become partners, or at least a part. More than one espionage episode leaves the spy with nothing to report, and at a loss to explain why.
Throughout this tale, the science and potential result of that knowledge, is thoughtfully detailed. Just as important, the day-to-day inequities in income, education and government are emphasized. While plausible solutions are always based on the philosophy "do no harm" - accidents do happen.
About the Author: Although a native of the Pacific Northwest, Larry Pratt can trace his heritage back to the ship that followed the Mayflower to the New World. The pleasure of being a grand-parent, many times over, has resulted in his concern over how healthy a planet these young earthlings will inherit. Hence Mr. Pratt's first excursion into speculative fiction.
Many hours of scientific research reveal facts surrounding what man may, or may not, be able to accomplish before our world no longer welcomes humans. More modern theories and schemes allow his fertile mind to imagine how we may postpone that dreadful date. Is our species near the finish line or do we have a few laps left?
Urgent State lays the foundation for the author's highly structured story about the saving of mankind. As of this writing, one more volume is needed to complete this journey. Naturally, scientific discovery as well as man's creativity may lead us down more involved, and complicated paths. You will certainly enjoy following Mr. Pratt on this insightful, pioneering trek; regardless of how many pages it involves.
