Book excerpt: Corruption touches each of us in unique but similar ways. Transparency International, an organization devoted to fighting corruption at every level of society - in every nation of the world - defines it as "the abuse of entrusted power for private gain." (http: //www.transparency.org/about/) Ricardeau Lucceus has organized his professional experience and observation, supported by relevant research, to emphasize the destructive nature of dishonesty in everyday life and dealings. From illicit birth certificates to forged death documents, corruption follows us through life in many of our public interactions. Mr. Lucceus explores the extent and impact of dishonesty at every level of society to show its corrosive effect on ethics and quality of life. Offering awareness as the first step, this book is a valuable tool for helping us to grapple with the immoral and unethical aspects of social institutions that are misshaping our youth and risking our future as a nation and as a people.