Book excerpt: Across America, community associations are flourishing. As a growing number of residents have discovered, these communities offer a new way of living together--one that protects and enhances property values, allows people to support their mutual interests, and promotes harmony and cooperation. In the Common Interest reveals the phenomenal growth of this lifestyle, and explains how the modern community association benefits not only residents but also the country at large. Author John Carona outlines the pros and cons of these communities, plus prescriptive advice for how we can make them even better. To bring his points to life, Carona weaves throughout the book the fictional story of David and Sandra, a couple whose experiences bust many myths about community living. Whether you're considering living in a community association or whether you currently reside or govern in one, you'll be enriched and empowered by the wealth of knowledge contained in this book--and inspired by Carona's vision of how we can continue to build the new American community.