Andrew McCormick

Save the World Inc Andrew McCormick

"Save the World Inc" takes place in Givory, the West African country that has struggled with poverty for centuries. Today its main source of wealth is the humble cocoa fruit which is used around the world for delicious chocolate treats. It's the cocoa harvest season, and a good crop will save Givory's farmers from a devastating drought. It will also make millions in profits for commodity traders who speculate on cocoa futures in global markets. But the trees are shriveled due to the relentless dry heat. The villagers are going hungry. The world's chocolate supply is at risk.

Against this turbulent backdrop, Effie Opiah, one of the few women in Givory to own land, wants to unite the cocoa farmers so they have greater bargaining power at harvest time. If she succeeds, their impoverished families will be able to buy food during the approaching lean season.

American CEO Ardmore Suss believes that by investing in African farming communities, her trading firm, TROPCOMMEX, will gain a competitive edge and build the company's reputation for good works. She is battling the old boys on the Board of Directors who aren't cheering for the success of the first woman to head their company. Givory Cocoa minister Openi, meanwhile, must placate the ruthless president of Givory, Big Lion, by pushing for greater yields. He believes that emerging new mobile phone technologies can quickly improve antiquated farmer practices and he works with Ardmore to put this scheme in place.

"Save the World Inc" informs as it entertains. Readers will see the direct connection between the consumer's buying choices in the developed world and the lives of the cocoa farmers back in Givory. The strength of Effie and Etassiah in seeking a better life for the rural women of Givory shows how intelligence, grit and determination overcome adversity. Their resilience leads to positive change despite immense obstacles. From the board room to the distant village of Asoon, "Save the World Inc" shows how we are all connected by commerce and compassion, profit and loss.

As we seek to save our planet through sustainable consumption and business practices, Save the World Inc poses the most fundamental question. Is it possible to do good?