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eldublibrarian's review against another edition
4.0
For former New Yorkers like myself that desperately clutch to the memories of this magical city, "A History of New York in 101 Objects" is not only a portal back home, but a lesson in history of the city that I never received. Based on a smaller version of this list in piece that Roberts wrote for the New York Times, "101 Objects" moves seamlessly from the Fordham Gneiss of 1.2 billion years ago to Hurricane Sandy.
Each short chapter takes on an object that has been an integral part in the formation of the history and culture(s) of New York City. A couple of my favorite are: the black and white cookie -- one of my father's favorites; and the subway token, which was long ago replaced by Metro cards. Because the objects are richly described in a matter of 2-3 pages, it's an easy book to pick up and put down, but also a great coffee table addition and gift.
I would love to see this concept expanded to other cities, but for now, I am so happy that I can bring myself back to the city whenever I want just by opening this book.
Each short chapter takes on an object that has been an integral part in the formation of the history and culture(s) of New York City. A couple of my favorite are: the black and white cookie -- one of my father's favorites; and the subway token, which was long ago replaced by Metro cards. Because the objects are richly described in a matter of 2-3 pages, it's an easy book to pick up and put down, but also a great coffee table addition and gift.
I would love to see this concept expanded to other cities, but for now, I am so happy that I can bring myself back to the city whenever I want just by opening this book.
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