The day the machines stopped began in an ordinary way. There was little warning of the impending disaster. Suddenly, all electrical energy was destroyed on the earth. Planes, cars, rockets, machinery of all kinds became useless. By week's end, total chaos enveloped the world as the wheels of civilization ground to a halt. Then ruthless leaders began to emerge, seeking a way to gain control of the almost helpless population. Only a handful of scientists remained to fight the inexplicable phenomenon—until they were captured and forced to use their knowledge to help the ruthless power combine take the world back to the Dark Ages. POWER FAILURE Brian turned up the volume on the radio while Anne sat beside him, listening intently: "...Soviet experiment can cut off all the power in the world. Industry would be useless. The world would be paralyzed. My studies convince me that modern civilization is in great danger." The announcement ended, and Brian turned off the radio. "He claims the experiment will cause widespread irreparable power failure. Thre is no such thing." Anne smiled. "That's a relief to me," she said and stood up. Suddenly, the lights went out. Anne's hand gripped Brian's arm. He quickly flipped on the radio. Nothing happened. He opened the door to the hallway. The lights were out. He picked up a flashlight. It wouldn't work. Then he looked at Anne. Her face was white. "Oh, Brian," she said. "I'm afraid." (From the back of the book and the front page of the book.)