During his 40 years in public health, John Ashton has influenced world leaders and global organizations, and fought to improve public health at community, national, and international levels. In this book, he shares his adventures from the front lines of the field at a time of unprecedented change and challenge.

Part I: On the shoulders of giants. Roots and foundations ; Public health at its peak-the interwar years -- Part II: The three pillars of public health. Improving health in Mersey ; Promoting and improving health ; Protecting health ; Population health care -- Part III: Synthesis. No health without mental health-mens sana in corpore sano ; Healthy cities ; Culture, arts, and wellbeing ; Reflections.