Wherever we look, population is the driver of the most toxic issues on the political agenda. But the population bomb is being defused. Half the world's women are having two children or fewer. Within a generation, the world's population will be falling. And we will all be getting very old.

So should we welcome the return to centre stage of the tribal elders? Or is humanity facing a fate worse than environmental apocalypse?

Brilliant, heretical and accessible to all, Fred Pearce takes on the matter that is fundamental to who we are and how we live, confronting our demographic demons.

Fred Pearce has reported on environment, popular science and development issues from over 60 countries during the past 20 years and is the recipient of many awards for both his journalism and his books. His books have been translated into 16 languages.When the Rivers Run Dry was voted among the all-time 'Top 50 Sustainability Books'by the University of Cambridge's Programme for Sustainable Leadership.Confessions of an Eco Sinner, his most recent work, was longlisted for the Samuel Johnson Prize and winner of a 2008 IVCA Clarion Award. He is the environment and development consultant for theNew Scientistand writes regularly for theGuardian. He is a frequent broadcaster and speaker, and has given public presentations on all six populated continents in the past four years.

A groundbreaking book that reveals the truth about population levels, and where they will take us in the future.