"Since the start of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century, fossil fuels have supplied much if not most of that energy. Today, oil, coal and gas meet three-quarters of our needs. The oil and gas industry alone generates revenue running into several trillion dollars each year. It’s a market that can offer a producing country a one-off opportunity to change life for the better [...] for everyone. Experience has shown that that does not always follow. Oil production, in some countries, has been a curse instead of a blessing. Translating wishful thinking into reality depends on how the resources, and the revenue from them, are earned, managed and spent. This is where you come in. You, the journalist, have a vital role to play. This handbook will not teach you everything you need to know about the oil and gas industry. It’s more of an introductory guide to help you get your bearings. It will offer you a few pointers and, hopefully, stimulate your natural curiosity." (Introduction)