At age ten, Bradley Gallagher began writing letters to famous Americans asking them what they believe are the keys to success in life. As the project grew from a few interesting letters to more than 300 responses, each containing tips for success for young people from the perspectives of leaders in politics, law, business, journalism, education, entertainment, and athletics, Bradley made the decision to share these letters with other young people in Tips from the Top: Advice for a Young Person from 125 of America's Most Successful People. He sought each respondent's permission to include his or her letter in this book, with all profits from publication to be used to fund college scholarships for the children of fire fighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency personnel.

Tips from the Top also contains each respondent's biography. The collective scope of these biographies demonstrates that success can be achieved regardless of one's beginning in life. The recommendations contained in these letters could be invaluable for a young person as he contemplates his future path in life.