In a world teetering on the brink of multifaceted global crises, Benjamin R. Barber's "If Mayors Ruled the World" posits a transformative idea: the true powerhouses capable of effecting worldwide change are the cities we inhabit, steered by their pragmatic and visionary mayors. With the nation-state increasingly seen as a relic, ill-equipped to navigate the complex web of modern challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and social inequality, Barber argues that cities offer a beacon of hope. Through a blend of compelling evidence and engaging profiles of mayors from across the globe, he illustrates how these urban leaders are leveraging their unique positions to address issues that transcend national borders, fostering a world where cooperation and innovation flourish. Barber's narrative is both an ode to the untapped potential of urban governance and a roadmap for a future where cities lead the way in crafting sustainable solutions to global problems. By highlighting the successes of cities that have already begun to embrace this role, from reducing carbon emissions to enhancing civic participation, "If Mayors Ruled the World" challenges us to reimagine the possibilities of democratic governance. It is a persuasive and inspiring call to action, urging a shift in perspective from the gridlock of national politics to the dynamic arenas of cities and their leaders, who together have the potential to reshape the world.