A secret-agent spin on the technology running through a house.

Casey, who loves a good spy story, wonders about the mysterious, unseen workings of a home. How does tap water get to the top of an apartment building? Where does his garbage go? And how does his friend's voice come out of the telephone?

So begins Casey's dogged investigation into the hidden (and not-so-hidden) workings of the home. Switched On, Flushed Down, Tossed Out follows Casey through sixteen case files investigating such processes as:

• Water sources, hot and cold, and how it travels to your taps
• Sewage treatment and waste water disposal
• Garbage disposal and recycling
• Power generation and how electricity travels
• Telephone, television, and radio transmissions
• Heating and air conditioning.

Each case file offers clear explanations, helpful diagrams, and interesting facts about these and other familiar elements in both houses and apartments. Meanwhile, fascinating sidebars offer surprising examples of household workings throughout history and around the world. A final section offers a glimpse of how our homes may function in the future.

Casey soon discovers the only thing more interesting than a mystery is discovering the facts. So, too, will readers be intrigued by Trudee Romanek's funny and informative look into the not-so-secret world behind the walls. Meanwhile, Stephen MacEachern's vibrant cartoon illustrations and clear diagrams will keep even the most hardboiled detective laughing and well informed.