A free copy received from the Goodreads First Reads program, to read and review.

I listened to, and enjoyed, the BBC’s “A History of the World in 100 Objects” series as a podcast, so when I saw this book, I was intrigued to see what objects would be chosen to tell the history of New York City. I should probably also disclose that I grew up in the far distant reaches of “upstate” Western New York, and as such have a natural bias against New York City. However, I do recognize the importance of the City in the history of the United States (and the world, for that matter).

To begin with, the task this book attempts to take on is formidable. New York has a long and complicated history, and trying to do it justice using just 101 objects is, perhaps, an impossible task. That said, this book does a pretty good job at showing how the city grew, changed, evolved, and became the place it is today. Reaching back into prehistory, the book begins with geology, and then quickly moves through the colonial period, helping to show the influence of the original Dutch settlers and the transition to British rule. We are shown how the city became a major port and industrial center, home to finance and banking, theater, fashion, and much more. The stories of the object here are also the stories of New York’s colorful cast of characters: politicians, businessmen, artists, and more. We glimpse the city’s triumphs as well its greatest tragedies.

By the author’s own admission, there is much that was omitted (by necessity). But for someone who wants a general overview of the history of one of America’s greatest cities, wonderfully illustrated and easy-to-read, then this book is quite possibly the book they should read.

This book will be available at the annual BC-in-DC Holiday get together.

This book sounds awesome. So I grabbed it. That's how I roll. Thanks!