New York books
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
What is A Tree Grows in Brooklyn about?
"A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" is a coming-of-age novel set in Williamsburg at the beginning of the 20th century. It's a story of Francie Nolan, a young girl, and her family's life journey. Life in New York is not easy, but Francie nevertheless perceveres with her aspirations to finish school and become a writer
The Catcher in the Rye
What is The Catcher in the Rye about?
All lonely and rebellious young people can identify with the spirit of "The Catcher in the Rye." Holden Caulfield tells the story of his seventeen years as a high school dropout who travels through New York City while he destroys everything that seems dishonest or meaningless. Everyone views him as either an annoying, privileged kid or a lonely, honest character.
Just Kids
What is Just Kids about?
Just Kids by Patti Smith tells the story of her close relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, beginning with their chance encounter in Brooklyn back in the wild '60s and '70s. With this book, you’ll follow their journey through New York City's artistic scene, from humble beginnings to the culture of Max's Kansas City and the Hotel Chelsea. Dive into this nostalgic tribute to their creative bond and a snapshot of an era filled with art, music, and personal growth.
The Great Gatsby
What is The Great Gatsby about?
In the glittering world of 1920s Long Island, Jay Gatsby throws lavish parties hoping to win back the love of his life, Daisy Buchanan. It is the epitome of the American Dream, with vibrant New York turning into the city of success. Nick Carraway, a newcomer to Gatsby’s world of wealth and excess, tells us the story behind all of the grand parties and, more importantly, Gatsby himself.
My Year of Rest and Relaxation
What is My Year of Rest and Relaxation about?
What would it feel like to take a pill and sleep an entire year? No problems, no anger, no constantly exhausting life. "My Year of Rest and Relaxation" by Ottessa Moshfegh depicts a woman who does exactly this. What you will see here is personal struggles, isolation, self-destruction, and reinventions.
The Slip
What is The Slip about?
Art isn't only about large galleries in the city centers, and Coenties Slip, a small street in Manhattan, is a testament to that. Being home to a group of diverse artists, it reshaped American art. "The Slip" by Prudence Peiffer tells a lot about that street's history and the power of community.
A Little Life
What is A Little Life about?
"A Little Life" follows four friends who've graduated from the same college: an aspiring actor Willem, an architect Malcolm, a painter named JB, and Jude, a lawyer. All of them are trying to make their path in New York, dealing with personal struggles and emotional turbulence. In their hardships, we see how they and their relationships change over time.
The Power Broker
What is The Power Broker about?
Who was responsible for the construction of New York City and the development of its infrastructure? The name of this person is Robert Moses, and this creative and ambitious public official oversaw the building of New York, holding immense power in his hands. "The Power Broker" by Robert A. Caro tells about the political career of Robert Moses and the pros and cons of his actions.
The Works
What is The Works about?
When you drive through the city, do you ever wonder how is everything connected behind the scenes? The Works answers questions like these, telling the readers all the interesting facts about city infrastructure. Although this book is specifically about New York, this knowledge is fundamental for may other cities too.
Behold the Dreamers
What is Behold the Dreamers about?
Reading "Behold the Dreamers," you find yourself in New York City during the 2008 financial crisis. The story follows Jende Jonga, a Cameroonian immigrant, who becomes a chauffeur for Clark Edwards, a wealthy Lehman Brothers executive. These two men and their families face challenges that test their dreams and stability. Will they be able to tackle the problems they face?
The Witches of New York
What is The Witches of New York about?
"The Witches of New York" tells the story of two witches, Adelaide Thom and Eleanor St. Clair. They own a tea shop and sell cures, palmistry, and potions. When they meet Beatrice Dunn, a young woman with strange abilities, their lives change once and for all.
The Goldfinch
What is The Goldfinch about?
Theo Decker's life changes forever after he survives a bombing at the Metropolitan Museum in New York City when he is thirteen. In the chaos, he impulsively takes The Goldfinch, a painting that becomes both a treasure and a heavy burden. His mother dies, his father abandons him, and he moves between different guardians. Traumatized, Theo starts working in the antique trade, a world that both fascinates and frustrates him.
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