Book excerpt: As a response to the high-dollar billet-based street rod trend, budget-limited home builders looked to the past for inspiration and style, and Rat Rods were the result. These 'imperfectly fine' rods rarely sport paint jobs of any kind, and their owners aren't scared to drive them. They represent a rebellious attitude, but never take anything too seriously either. Rat Rods are high on style but low on budget, and that's why so many love them. Rat Rod's: Rodding's Imperfect Stepchildren is a celebration of this trend, and just as importantly, the lifestyle that accompanies it.