A great read. I had to keep reminding myself that it was a work of fiction, because the plot as well as the characters and their motives were completely relatable and realistic. I haven't read many books that take place in the near future, as in a year from now, like this one. Events that I know will be happening soon have already happened--it's a window into my present next year (a bit eerie). The "one year later" future is just as realistic as the other parts of the novel, which adds to the eeriness. The future/present in the novel doesn't give anything away for readers in this present however, doesn't say who the president is or other big details like that. It's just one (normal) person's reality in 2013/2014. I highly recommend this book, especially to people who were kids in the 60s.