One of the basic facts of life here in lower Fairfield County is traffic. It's just something we always have to take into account when trying to get from here to there, even more so than the weather. And admit it, we all have opinions about other drivers, short cuts, and when the best time is to sneak onto I-95!

So it makes sense that someone has finally written a book about traffic and how we drive. Author Tom Vanderbilt talks about the psychology of merging and whether the "late merger" is gaining an advantage or not, traffic calming devices, why it's often impossible to find a parking spot, the concept that driving is actually the most complex skill-oriented task we do, and unique traffic control devices such as "Sabbath timing" in Los Angeles. He also continues the discussion on his blog  (don't miss the piece about "bollards" -- traffic-stopping barriers -- in England that are designed to look like children!).

Whether you agree with his theories or not, you'll never approach an intersection, red light, or roundabout the same way after reading this book. Buckle up and enjoy the ride -- um, read!