I mean to say that your body will stop you from drinking too much Kava far far before you get to the point of a black-out or overdose. You will feel sick to your stomach. Getting to a good krunk level will be enough for you to feel satisfied. It is not like beer where you crave more and more crave. Maybe a few hours into a session with some friends you'll feel like brewing up a new batch. No big deal.
In "Getting Stoned With Savages," the effects of Kava are greatly exaggerated (or misrepresented, to choose a better word) by Troost. Sure, it's a book and he needs to paint it more vivid than it is. Kava should produce a mild, relaxing feeling that can sometimes verge on a "stoned" feeling. Numbness in your limbs, and an overall relaxed feeling should be the desired effect. If you are looking for a powerful intoxicant, this isn't the place.