Ever wondered why the gap between rich and poor nations is so great, or why it's so difficult to get a foot on the property ladder, or how to outwit Starbucks? This book offers the hidden story behind these and other question, as economist Tim  Harford reveals how  supermarkets, airlines and coffee chains-to name just a few – are vacuuming money from our wallets. Written with a light, humorous touch but backed up by the latest economic research, this eye-opening book delightfully the forces that shape our day-to-day lives, often without our knowing it.