This critical work explores the issues and citizen action that made Vancouver one of the world''s most livable cities -- an international urban poster child -- and challenges policy-makers and the public to reinvigorate the debate for the next generation of successful sustainable city building.

Time and again, Vancouver is recognized internationally as one of the best places to live. It achieved that reputation by breaking rules and forging its own brand of North American urbanism. This compelling book details the nine most important decisions made in the Greater Vancouver region since the 1940s. Authors Mike Harcourt and Ken Cameron, themselves key players in several of these developments, reveal the political machinations, the ideological struggles and the personal commitment that lay behind each one. By tracing today''s successes back to their roots, they illustrate their central theme: that cities are the result of the daily choices we make as leaders, activists and citizens.

Ken Cameron has held senior planning and management positions with the City of New Westminster and the Greater Vancouver Regional District since the late 1970s. He is CEO of the British Columbia Homeowner Protection Office.

Mike Harcourt is a former premier of British Columbia (1991-96), mayor of Vancouver (1980-86) and city alderman (1972-80.) He is chair of the Prime Minister's Advisory Committee for Cities and Communities.

Sean Rossiter wrote an award-winning column about civic affairs for Vancouver Magazine for sixteen years. Recipient of three City of Vancouver Heritage Awards, he is also the author of nineteen books.