In 2029, the United States is engaged in a bloodless world war that will wipe out the savings of millions of American families. Overnight, on the international currency exchange, the ''almighty dollar'' plummets in value, to be replaced by a new global currency, the ''bancor.'' In retaliation, the president declares that America will default on its loans. ''Deadbeat Nation'' being unable to borrow, the government prints money to cover its bills. The Mandibles have been counting on a sizable fortune filtering down when their ninety-seven-year-old patriarch dies. Once the inheritance turns to ash, each family member must contend with disappointment, but also-- as the US economy spirals into dysfunction-- the challenge of sheer survival.