James Sanders Libri

This companion volume to the PBS television series features over 500 full-color and black-and-white illustrations, capturing the beauty and complexity of New York City, a symbol of ambition and modern life. It chronicles the city's evolution from a Dutch trading post in 1624 to its status as a global powerhouse, weaving a narrative that encompasses nearly four centuries of growth and change. The book explores significant events, including the Revolutionary War, the rise of industrialization in the 19th century, and the transformative waves of early 20th-century immigration. It highlights New York's emergence as the world's first modern city, showcasing pioneering skyscrapers, subways, and its cultural impact on American society. Readers will discover the stories of notable figures such as Peter Stuyvesant, Alexander Hamilton, and F. Scott Fitzgerald, alongside vibrant illustrations including rare photographs and period maps. The narrative is enriched by interviews with prominent historians and essays from distinguished critics who provide insights into the city's rich history. With a new preface and two additional chapters addressing the city's transformation in the 21st century, this volume offers a comprehensive exploration of New York's past and its ongoing evolution.

From the cinema verité of the sixties to softer fare like Splash, New York has provided some of the most iconic moments on film. Beginning with a survey of such classics as Breakfast at Tiffany's, Scenes from the City captures how the changing face of New York, as well as the founding of the MOFTB, have contributed to a particular school of film characterized most emphatically in the street-style work of directors as diverse as Martin Scorsese and Spike Lee. With over 200 stills and contributions from noted New York film personalities such as Sidney Lumet and Nora Ephron, the book also includes rare, unpublished, behind-the-scenes shots and stories from the quintessential New York filmmaker himself—Woody Allen. With a special section on the landmark TV series, commercials and music videos filmed in New York, Scenes from the City is an affectionate and vivacious ovation for this captivating "character" that rarely receives billing but always steals the show.