Books matching: new york city history
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- #1
Save:A sweeping, immersive ride through the heartbeat of New York City - perfect for historical fiction lovers and urban history buffs, but may not satisfy everyone in search of intimate character arcs or comprehensive 20th-century coverage.
New York by Edward Rutherfurd is a sweeping epic historical novel that traces the lives of several families in New York from 1664 to 2009. The author skillfully highlights various parts of history, showcasing how New Yorkers adapted to events through highs and lows, wars and peace, and joy and sorrow. The novel delves into poverty, wealth, and race issues, although not in great depth, and successfully brings historical events to life within a captivating narrative.
The book follows generations of families, offering a perspective on the city's development from its earliest days with Native Americans and trappers to more modern times. While some readers found the latter part of the novel less interesting, the overall portrayal of New York's history and the intertwining of various families throughout the centuries make for an engaging and informative read.
When I was about fourteen years of age, Meinheer van Dyck became a more important man of business than he was before, and everyone started to call him Boss, including myself. So from now on I shall ca...November 2009•871 pages A monumental biography that uncovers how power really works, told with unmatched depth and flair - but expect a marathon, not a sprint. Essential if you love history, politics, or New York; maybe too much if you’re here for a quick read.
'The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York' by Robert A. Caro is a monumental biography exploring the life and impact of Robert Moses, a powerful figure in New York City's history. The book delves into Moses' rise to power without holding elected office, his manipulation of the city's landscape, and his controversial legacy in urban planning. Caro's writing is described as extensive, detailed, and engaging, presenting Moses as a complex and influential figure in shaping New York City.
was no money to replace the dank, low-ceilinged pool, which wasn't even the right length for intercollegiate swimming events. There was no allocation from the university for travel expenses or even fo...A fascinating, thoroughly researched journey into New York’s Dutch beginnings - widely recommended for history lovers, but those wanting a tightly focused or brisk read should be ready to skim a bit here and there.
The Island at the Center of the World by Russell Shorto is a meticulously researched book that delves into the forgotten Dutch colony of New Amsterdam, later known as New York City. The book brings to life historical figures like Peter Stuyvesant and Adriaen van der Donck, showcasing the clash of cultures, power struggles, and the significant impact of Dutch settlers on shaping American ideals and culture. Shorto's writing style is described as engaging, immersive, and akin to a novel, making the history of Manhattan in the 17th century come alive with vivid details and intriguing characters.
On a late summer's day in the year 1608, a gentleman of London made his way across that city. He was a man of ambition, intellect, arrogance, and drive—in short, a man of his age. Like our own, his wa...2004•431 pagesAuthor Mike Wallace has written a monumental work of historical writing, spanning over 1000 pages to cover just 20 years of New York City's history from 1898 to 1919. The book delves into various aspects of New York City life, including finance, poverty, immigration, prejudice, corruption, crime, war, and more. It provides a multifaceted historical narrative of New York during the early 20th century, showcasing the city's development as a world capital amidst global upheaval.
The book is highly informative and well-written, offering a detailed exploration of New York's cultural, social, political, and economic life during the specified time period. The author's writing style is engaging and the chapters build on each other to provide a comprehensive view of the city, linking internal developments with broader national and global contexts. Despite its length, the book is surprisingly easy to read and contains valuable insights into the growth and influence of New York City.
McClure soon went out on his own. Launching the pioneering McClure Newspaper Syndicate, he bought articles and short stories from popular American and English writers, then sold reprint rights to news...September 2017'Gotham: A History of New York City to 1898' by Edwin G. Burrows delves into the detailed history of New York City from its early beginnings as a Dutch colony to its transformation into a bustling metropolis by 1898. is divided into five sections, each exploring different eras of the city's history, highlighting significant events such as the Dutch influence, British rule, and the diverse cultural and social transformations that shaped NYC into the iconic city it is today. Through a comprehensive narrative, the authors provide insights into the economic, political, social, and cultural evolution of New York City, intertwining local history with broader American historical contexts.
Andros was acquitted of the charges that prompted his recall, but he lost his job anyway. In 1683 the duke replaced him with Colonel Thomas Dongan, the fourth royalist veteran of the Civil Wars to be...November 1998'Low Life: Lures and Snares of Old New York' by Luc Sante is a comprehensive exploration of Manhattan's rich history, focusing on the early immigrant experience, culture, vice, and survival in the first slums. The book delves into the gritty details of the city's underbelly, from the rivaling theater scenes on Broadway and the Bowery to the Chinese opium dens, offering a detailed account of the period from 1840 to 1919. Sante's writing style captures the ghosts of New York's past, bringing them to life through clear prose and fascinating stories, making this book an excellent example of compelling social history.
LONG, NARROW MANHATTAN ISLAND SITS IN THE BAY, AMONG OTHER ISLANDS, OUTCROPPINGS, FLATLANDS, LIKE A SILHOUETTE OF A RIGHT whale navigating a rocky passage; on the area map, among blank-faced formation...1991•480 pages- #7
Save:A beautifully written, quietly devastating classic - perfect for fans of smart, nuanced drama about love, duty, and society's invisible cages. Still worth reading for its wit and observations, even if 'happily ever after' isn't guaranteed.
'The Age of Innocence' by Edith Wharton is a novel set in New York high society in the late 1800s, focusing on the protagonist Newland Archer and his internal struggle between societal duty and personal desires. The book delves into themes of love, societal expectations, and individual freedom, as Archer navigates his engagement to May Welland while being drawn to the unconventional Ellen Olenska. Wharton's writing style is praised for its wit, intricate observations, and portrayal of the stifling nature of societal norms during that time period.
Edith Wharton, a prolific writer best known as a novelist of manners whose fiction exposed the rigid mores of aristocratic society in a world that has all but vanished, was born Edith Newbold Jones in...1920•395 pages - #8
Save:A dreamy, atmospheric love letter to old New York wrapped in a time travel adventure - slow to start, but transporting if you let it sweep you away.
"Time and Again" by Jack Finney is a time travel novel set in New York City, where the main character, Si Morley, travels between the 1970s and the 1880s. The story combines elements of mystery and romance as Si navigates the ethical dilemmas of time travel and the consequences of altering history. The book is praised for its detailed descriptions of both time periods and the immersive experience it provides for the reader.
IN SHIRT-SLEEVES, the way I generally worked, I sat sketching a bar of soap taped to an upper corner of my drawing board. The gold-foil wrapper was carefully peeled back so that you could still read m...1970•453 pages - #9
Save:A fun, imaginative New York City adventure that’s perfect for Percy Jackson fans - just be prepared for some confusing rules and a few cliffhangers along the way.
Gods of Manhattan by Scott Mebus is a captivating fantasy that merges the real New York City with a mythical realm called Mannahatta. The story follows thirteen-year-old Rory Hennessy, who can see beyond the ordinary to this hidden world filled with historical figures and spirits. As Rory navigates between Manhattan and Mannahatta, he discovers that powerful gods, representing various aspects of the city, are in danger. This revelation propels him into an adventure that includes his annoying little sister, Bridget, and a charismatic magician named Hex, who introduces Rory to the unexpected magic surrounding him.
The writing style is engaging and straightforward, creating a fast-paced narrative filled with action and humor. The dialogue is decent, and while there's much to keep track of, the author does a good job of providing exposition without overwhelming the reader. Themes of family dynamics and social issues are woven into the plot, adding depth to the story. Though some aspects of world-building may be confusing, the adventure remains entertaining for those who appreciate a blend of history and fantasy.
April 2008•373 pages - #10
Save:A delightfully illustrated, loving, and offbeat ode to New York’s everyday magic - perfect for city obsessives and nostalgic souls alike.
"Tenements, Towers & Trash: An Unconventional Illustrated History of New York City" is a richly illustrated exploration of New York City's history, culture, and transformation over time. The author, Julia Wertz, utilizes a unique blend of comic illustration and narrative to chronicle the city's evolution, capturing both its vibrant past and the often disheartening changes brought on by modern development. The book invites readers to experience New York through Wertz's eyes, showcasing her keen observations of the city's streetscapes and the juxtaposition of old and new elements, making it an engaging read for both natives and visitors alike.
Wertz's writing style is infused with wit and nostalgia, as she reflects on the city's character and the impact of gentrification on its soul. Her meticulous research and dedication to detail shine through in her depictions of everyday life, as well as the oddities that define the urban landscape. The book serves as both a love letter to New York and a commentary on its ongoing transformation, prompting readers to ponder the essence of their attachment to the city amidst the changes that threaten to dilute its unique identity.
October 2017•284 pages
