Is the city a playground or a battleground? In the new book Cities: Playgrounds or Battlegrounds? David Hillis argues that the answer to this question will significantly impact how we will live in the 21st century. By tracing the 50-year trajectory of Leadership Foundations and its values, ethos and theory of change, Hillis argues that the city must be seen as a playground if effective work and change is to take place for the good of the whole and for the long haul. Hillis seamlessly weaves together sociology, theology, literature, films, and interviews with practitioners who are working in cities throughout the world to support the idea that seeing the city as a playground will facilitate a better world. As you read, you will be inspired, educated and challenged. The book explores how Leadership Foundations--a global network of leaders working to make real and lasting impact in close to 50 cities throughout the world-- goes about providing a relevant model for work and positive change in today's world. Hillis describes the methods of city practitioners working in some of the harshest urban environments across the globe, and stresses that how we see the world around us determines the way in which we will move and act. You will be asked to consider how you might engage your city for her social and spiritual renewal. Whether you are a person of faith or a person of good will; clergy or lay person; social worker or business entrepreneur; Hillis offers a welcome into the LF learning community and asks all to consider the part they can play to make a positive contribution. This book provides a critical perspective that needs to be understood as we engage the 21st century.