DESC: Longevity is a factor that mystifies scientists and the general public alike. In BLUE ZONES, Dan Buettner, who is an engaging writer, shares the results of his worldwide research project, which was funded by the National Institute on Aging. Looking for the secrets to living longer, Buettner studied people in various locales--Japan, Costa Rica, Sardinia, and other places--who were just shy of or just past the 100-year mark. He examined their diet, lifestyle, and general attitudes toward life to identify common factors that may contribute to a longer, and more vital, life span--and which can be replicated by the rest of us.