Shuman’s groundbreaking work offers an alternative model to the dominant view of economic development, a model that liberates and fosters the natural capacities of local businesses to grow and prosper. His book provides both a compelling case for the macroeconomic benefits of buying (and building) local, and he shows readers how easy and beneficial it is—to them and to their communities—to “go local” in their four key spending categories: goods, services, energy and finance. Ultimately, Shuman provides an optimistic vision and a practical roadmap for consumers who wonder if their spending is really paying off.