The book discusses how emerging markets, especially China, could become dominant in the world economy. It questions whether the financial crisis in the West has helped countries like Brazil, Russia, India, and China (BRIC) rise faster. China's response to the crisis has been impressive, setting an example for other emerging economies. The future of Europe and the U.S. after the crisis is uncertain, as is the development of developing nations. The book suggests that progress for developing economies will be slow, depending on structural changes, reforms, and political willingness. The outcome will determine if China and other emerging markets will shape or just shake the world.