Book excerpt: Epic, multi-layered, morally challenging and action-packed - The Wire is everything a TV programme should be and more. A cult hit in the US and Britain, it has thousands of committed fans willing to engage in endless debates. Once you've watched it, you'll be drawn in, too: Is Omar Little the coolest criminal since Robin Hood? Which series has the best theme tune? Will Bubbles survive Baltimore? Avon or Stringer? This book collects the thoughts of Guardian journalists and the readers of the Guardian's Wire Re-up blog and combines them with interviews with the show's creators and stars and the all important xxx ratings, to bring you a more than fitting eulogy that will follow the airing of the show's final season.