All over the world, people learn in school that the Netherlands is a country that lies below sea-level. Dikes, polders, windmills and wooden shoes are well-known icons of this unusual nation, while its sturdy dams and storm surge barriers also enjoy world fame. But how does it all work? How can a country exist under such circumstances and even be prosperous? One would expect the Dutch to panic about climate change but they don't seem to be; how come? This book will tell you all about it, both in words and photos, striking a balance between developments in the past, the present and the future, steering clear from both generalizations and too much technological detail. Whether you are an expat, tourist, or far-away individual who has taken an interest in the country, this book will offer fascinating insights into how a society can function at sea level.