In a lively and counterintuitive exploration of success stories from across the globe, an award-winning journalist takes the reader on a fascinating journey in pursuit of the flimsy difference between triumph and failure Drawing life lessons from the great ideas put to work on every continent—from America to Europe, from Africa to Asia and Australasia—these stories are as surprising as they are inspiring. This book explores such questions as Why do some initiatives take off while others flounder? How have some communities managed to achieve so much while others struggle? What distinguishes the good companies from the bad? What lessons can we learn from the surprisingly well-ordered Mumbai community made famous by Slumdog Millionaire? Why have Canadian manners helped Whistler become the most popular ski resort in North America? How has Zurich developed the world's most admired anti-drug policies? And how has Hong Kong used gambling profits to help its residents enjoy the greatest level of economic freedom on the planet? Readers will be entertained, informed, and enlightened as to how to achieve successes of in their businesses, communities, and lives.