This World Bank study on resource-based economic development examines key features of economic and political governance in developing nations that rely heavily on non-renewable resource extraction for major portions of their wealth. Drawing on case studies from African and Central American nations commissioned for this project, the work explores the political economies of developing nations and gauges the effectiveness of governments in exploiting resource profits for the greater good. The report covers topics such as resource sector organization, fiscal regimes and public infrastructure provisions, and includes numerous data tables, charts and illustrations. The volume is authored by a team of economists and public policy experts at the World Bank. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)