ApexNews
Return to Main
Book

Saudi America: The Truth About Fracking and How It's Changing the World

2018

Purchase on Amazon

Synopsis

The technology of fracking in shale rock -- particularly in the Permian Basin in Texas -- has transformed America into the world's top producer of both oil and natural gas. The U.S. is expected to be "energy independent" and a "net exporter" in less than a decade, a move that will upend global politics, destabilize Saudi Arabia, crush Russia's chokehold over Europe, and finally bolster American power again.

Or will it?

Investigative journalist Bethany McLean digs deep into the cycles of boom and bust that have plagued the American oil industry for the past decade, from the financial wizardry and mysterious death of fracking pioneer Aubrey McClendon, to the investors who are questioning the very economics of shale itself. McLean finds that fracking is a business built on attracting ever-more gigantic amounts of capital investment, while promises of huge returns have yet to bear out. Saudi America tells a remarkable story that will persuade you to think about the power of oil in a new way.

Suggested Reading

The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron

There were dozens of books about Watergate, but only All the President's Men gave readers the full story, with all the drama and nuance and exclusive reporting. And thirty years later, if you're going to read only one book on Watergate, that's still the one. Today, Enron is the biggest business stor...

View Details

The Wolfberry Chronicle: And Other Permian Basin Tales From The Henry Oil Company

Since its start in 1969, the family-owned Henry company had been viewed by the Permian Basin oil community as "a little ol' Spraberry driller," reliable and determined but quaintly plodding. But in summer 2003, the company inconspicuously drilled two wells on picked-over acreage and quietly deploye...

Purchase on Amazon View Details

Latest News

April 26th, 2026

Drill, baby, drill? US, China fight for the future of energy

January 11th, 2021

Saudi Crown Prince plans zero-car city at NEOM

We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. By continuing to browse, you accept our Cookie Policy and Privacy Policy.